Everything horse uk everything horse uk magazine, november 2014

November 2014 • Issue 14 • Everything Horse UK Magazine 1

WELCOME TO NOVEMBER’S MAGAZINETHE FREE EQUESTRIAN NEWS AND ARTICLE MAGAZINEEVERYTHING HORSE

NOVEMBER 2014 ISSUE 14

UK

5 Minutes with

Gemma Tattersall

Health Articles Including Colic & Tendon Injuries

Meet one of Gemma’s most

promising horses

Arctic Soul

SHOWJUMPING MASTERCLASSSimple Jumping Exercises with Daniel Moseley

Gift Guide CPart One

hristmas

with the

Horse Side Vet Guide App

GET TO GRIPS

November 2014 • Issue 14 • Everything Horse UK Magazine 3 2 Everything Horse UK Magazine • Issue 14 • November 2014

WELCOME TO NOVEMBER’S MAGAZINE

Everything Horse UK Magazine is a free monthly publication featuring the latest equestrian news, rider features and health articles. The magazine is available in print and as a digital publication. Check out our Facebook and Twitter pages for more information.

Contact InformationGeneral [email protected]

EditorJennifer [email protected]

Advertising/Marketing Rachael [email protected]

News TeamSuzanne [email protected]

DISCLAIMEREverything Horse UK Ltd endeavors to bring the reader accurate and up to date information from the equestrian industry. We may or may not agree with the information provided in this magazine, however we do aim to make sure it is relevant at the time of publishing. Images are provided by the content writers and Everything Horse UK Ltd will not be held liable for the use of images if copyright authentication has not been accurately sourced. Responsibility for Copyright authentication is left solely with the contributor. Should you have a dispute please contact Everything Horse UK, we will then be able to give details for the writer responsible for the issue of the images. Everything Horse UK Ltd strongly recommend you consult a qualified veterinary practitioner should you have any doubts over your horse’s health.

Everything Horse UK Magazine

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Hello and welcome to November’s issue of Everything Horse UK magazine. This is my first issue as Editor and although I have

been on the team since the start it is a great pleasure to introduce myself to you all as Editor of Everything Horse UK magazine. I am looking forward hearing from our readers and what you would like to see between our pages. We have lots of exciting features and series to come so let’s kick it off with this month’s fabulous issue.

With the nights drawing in, riding isn’t always possible but to keep your horse fit and stimulated we have an excellent article on Lunging technique by Event rider and ex racehorse trainer Victoria Bax courtesy of Golly Galoshes. Another problem this time of year is the change in routine; horses that have lived out all summer are now coming in for the winter and being stabled for longer periods due to bad weather and restricted grazing. This often increases incidents of colic but fear not Equine Vet Merete Hass gives us the low down on what to look for and what to do if your horse shows signs of colic.

For when you do get chance to ride and for some inspiration Daniel Moseley gives us a Master class in simple related distance and cavaletti bounce exercises.

We have 5 Minutes with event rider Gemma Tattersall and a Horse Focus feature on the horse she rode to 5th place

at this years Burghley Horse Trials, Arctic Soul.

So with all this and more, including our Industry News, Dressage report and this year’s fabulous Christmas Gift Guide Part 1, why not ignore the storms raging outside and curl up with a cuppa and this month’s issue of Everything Horse UK magazine.

Jen

www.childericsaddles.co.uk

Dressage saddles for all sizes and levels

Becky Moody

Rembrandt

4 Everything Horse UK Magazine • Issue 14 • November 2014

CONTENTSREGULARS

6. British Dressage Report Daisy Jackson reports on

the LeMieux National Dressage Championships

8 . Equestrian News Find out Carl Hester’s latest

sponsors, what team Parelli UK have been up to and more in this month’s equestrian news

14 . The Pony Club News If you’re a fan of The

Pony Club you’ll love this double page spread featuring the latest top stories from the best equestrian youth organisation in the world!

20 . Social Media and the Equestrian Business

In business? Then you will love this month’s helping from Equine Events as they give great advice on the power of video in social media marketing

SPECIAL FEATURES

16 . 5 Minutes with Gemma Tattersall

Still on top of the world after being placed 5th at Burghley, Everything Horse UK steal ‘5 Minutes With’ Gemma

24. Horse Feature - Arctic Soul

Everything Horse UK get ‘Up Close and Personal’ with one of Gemma Tattersall’s most promising horses, Arctic Soul

39. The Horse Side Vet Guide App

The Everything Horse UK team are on hand to help our readers out with how to ‘get to grips’ with the latest horse app to hit the market

47. The Christmas Gift Guide, Part one

This month we look at ideas for ‘That Special Gift’ ‘The Rider’ and ‘The Horse’

RIDING AND TRAINING

26. Lunging Victoria Bax gives her

tops tips to make the most out of lunging exercises

30. Showjumping Masterclass

Daniel Moseley helps out with Cavaletti and related distance jumping techniques

44. Have we got the cart before the horse?

Human performance coach Jon Pitts from Fit to Ride makes us stop to consider whether we are using our bodies correctly when riding the horse in this fantastic informative article

HEALTH

18. Colic Merete Hass from the

Cheshire based Hampton Vets gives us warning signs and vital ‘need to know’ information on this common health issue

22. The Locking Stifle Lindsay Holder talks

us through an introduction to the stifle and focuses on an all too common problem of the ‘locking stifle’. Included in the piece are clinical signs, factors that can affect the matter and corrective management

34. Pasture Management and Parasitism

Kate Douglas-Dala continues her series of health articles surrounding parasites. This month Kate looks at paddock size, including environment and how the risk of over infestation can increase if corrective measures are not put in place

36. Tendon Injuries - Musculoskeletal

Injuries Part 1 Michelle Woolrich looks at common causes, treatment, rehabilitation and how to avoid tendon injuries. This is the first in a four part series of Musculoskeletal Injuries, that will be featured in the coming months.

40. Why use a McTimoney Spinal Manipulation

Practitioner for your horseEver wondered about the science behind McTimoney treatment? Anna Blunden tells us about the practice and the benefits it provides to the horse

THIS MONTHS COVER IMAGE

This months cover image is of Gemma Tattersall riding Arctic Soul.


BRITISH DRESSAGE REPORThave had the ride on her since she came to us, that is 10 months ago now so this was our first season. She was placed third and fourth in the Hickstead Dressage Masters Championships at Novice and Elementary and hasn’t had a score under 70%, often gaining 9’s for her walk (super news as she is going to be a para horse). My job with her was of course furthering her training but

also getting her out to competition venues so she could get used to the environment and be de-sensitised but she has always been so cool at every venue we have visited she has made my job very easy... and enjoyable!

The yard is sponsored by Allen and Page Feeds, and luckily I was wearing their

The 2014 LeMieux National Dressage Championships put on quite a show this year with wins from Michael Eilberg with the

phenomenal Woodlander Farouche, Dan Greenwood and the super talented Exige M and Carl Hester taking yet another national title with Dances With Wolves. The riders, horses and percentages seem to be improving across the nation at a rate of knots and that was very evident at this year’s Nationals.

After winning the Dressage Deluxe Medium Restricted Championship I caught up with Owen Cooper who has been bringing on Don Dante since the horse was 4 years old. “I did all the young horse classes with him and he’s come out this year at Medium level. He was a very good boy at the Nationals, he loves showing off and thinks everyone’s there to see him! He loves big occasions.”

Owen plans to take out the 7 year old black stallion at Advanced Medium next month.

He continues “He’s a lovely horse and I am very lucky to ride him. He had his first 4 foals this year and they are beautiful. We have one of them, he’s really smart.” The Dancier stallion is owned by Wendy Mckay, who was obviously delighted with their performance.

Another successful combination at the Championships was Lara Griffith and the 12 year old gelding by Rubin Royal, Rubin Al Asad (Rufus). Lara was given the ride on him nearly 4 years ago when she began working for his owners Dr and Mrs Bechtolsheimer. Lara said, after claiming a National title with him, “He was recovering from a back injury; he got cast in his stable and tore a muscle when I took on the ride so it has taken some time to build up the strength needed for this level. I competed him at small tour level last year and we hope to do our first Grand Prix in spring next year.”

Lara is a very talented rider who happens to also be a member of the World

Class Development. The programme provides human and equine support from physiotherapists, farriers, sports psychologists and nutritionists as well as access to training. With this team of world class specialists, competitors selected for the programme can prepare and compete to the best of their abilities and raise the standards of our GB athletes.

Winner of the Equilibrium Products Elementary Open Championship with 72.69%, Jess Thompson was extremely happy with her results and gave us a little insight into her ride, Athene. “Athene is a 7 year old Danish Warmblood by Gribaldi, she is owned by Diane Redfurn and Sophie Christiansen. She is stabled in training at Assouline dressage in Essex, where I am the head girl and rider. I have been with Mette and Michel Assouline for 3 years and started as a groom apprentice working my way up to managing the yard and riding several horses a day. Athene was found by Mette for the specific job of being Sophie’s next Paralympic horse. I

British Dressage ReportDaisy Jackson’s Image above: Owen celebrating in the prize giving, photo by Classic Dressage

Jess and Athene after

their win, photo by

Hoofprints

numnah in the winning test! We were also placed 3rd in the Novice Open on the Friday. So Athene really was on good form I have been overwhelmed by the support I have been given from the Assouline dressage home team, the owners and my trainers Mette and Michel, as this has been my busiest season so far. Athene will soon be ridden more frequently by Sophie to start her para equestrian career and I hope to carry on competing and training the horses at Assouline dressage. With (I hope) just as much success! I will be reporting on my twitter @JessyT90 all my dressage updates.”

One of the most talked about wins of the entire championship was Dan Greenwood and the very talented Exige M. Exige and Dan won the Supreme Champion Shearwater Young Horse International Potential and was compared by one judge to previous winner Woodlander Farouche. This class is a chance to find the next super star and is very competitive with top riders taking part including Charlotte Dujardin and Michael Eilberg.

Exige M (Freddie) is owned by Jenny Welham who was thrilled with the result. The Samarant x Jazz iron-grey gelding was crowned champion after rider judge Dan Sherriff was complimentary on his willingness to work. “He is all you want in a sports horse and is easy to collect even at a young age” Dan Sherriff continued “I was rider judge when Farouche won this class a few years ago and I think Freddie is as good.” Praise indeed and I will certainly be following Freddie’s progress with interest. Judge, Mariette Sanders was also very impressed by the 5 year old, “he has energy with quality, strength and purpose in the hindleg.”

Overall, a very exciting few days for all and with the standard continuing to increase, I am, as I’m sure you all are, very excited for the Winter Championships.

It’s all smiles for Lara and Rufus as

they celebrate winning the Inter II


WELCOME TO NOVEMBER’S MAGAZINE EQUESTRIAN NEWS

To win Burghley once in a lifetime is something that Eventing dreams are made of. To win it three times - and three years in a row on the same horse - is the masterpiece of a legend and an achievement that may never again be repeated.

Andrew Nicholson, winner of Burghley CCI**** on Avebury in 2012, 2013 and again in 2014, will be the *Key Speaker* at the 2015 International Eventing Forum (IEF). Andrew joins an already impressive line-up for a day which is now an essential date in the diary for professional and amateur riders, trainers and owners - at all levels.

The 2015 International Eventing Forum will take place at Hartpury College on Monday 2nd of February 2015 from 10am to 5pm. Make sure you don’t miss out by putting the date in your diary today! Tickets will soon be for sale soon from Hartpury College.

Photo: Andrew Nicholson and Avebury head the Burghley prize giving for the third year in a row. Photo courtesy of e-venting.co.uk For more information: www.internationaleventingforum.com or Tel: 01452 700283

“Learn from a legend” – book a date with Andrew Nicholson at the 2015 International Eventing Forum.

Royal dinner held for Horse Rangers The local children’s charity - Horse Rangers Association - celebrated its 60th Anniversary with a unique Royal Gala Dinner in the Cartoon Gallery and Great Hall of Hampton Court Palace

The Palace, recognising its close affiliation to the young people’s charity over many years, gave rare permission to hold the event in the historic room.

HRA Trustee Gemma Ratcliffe, who organised the event, says “It was a privilege and remarkable gesture, made by the kindness of sponsorship by the Palace. We are also greatly honoured that our patron, Her Royal Highness Princess Michael of Kent, attended as well as the Mayors of Richmond, Kingston and Elmbridge”.

The special occasion was part-sponsored by Bentalls and NatWest. Geoffrey Godbold, Director of HRA says “Sponsorship for our charity is vital. The costs of running our operation are great. Also, without the 200 volunteers we have, we couldn’t exist.”

Guests were given a guard of honour by young Horse Rangers as they were shown through the courtyards to the Queen’s Stairs to admire the private apartments, through the Communications Gallery and on to the Cartoon Gallery. Then they were led through the Haunted Gallery and the Great Watching Chamber to the Great Hall.

The charity is based in the Royal Mews at a peppercorn rent. It used to be the old Falconry for the Palace and is a stone’s

throw away along Hampton Court Road adjacent to the Royal Bushy Park. Horse Rangers has an indoor arena and fields within the Park. Bushy was given, in 1529, by Cardinal Wolsey to King Henry Vlll as part of a gift which also included Hampton Court.

The Horse Rangers Association was founded 60 years ago to promote the philosophy that horse management & riding should be available to all young people & not restricted to the wealthy.

Today, the organisation utilises its 30 horses to assist in the personal development of Rangers. Over 400 members, from all backgrounds & abilities, are formed into cadet squadrons, learning comradeship, teamwork & the importance of taking responsibility

Lara Dyson Enjoys Successful Home InternationalLara Dyson and her striking KWPN-approved stallion, Cyden Bodyguard Moorland, enjoyed a successful weekend at the British Dressage Home Internationals, held at Arena UK in Lincolnshire.

The pair finished second place overall in the Advanced Medium section, just 0.5 of a point away from first place.

Lara and Bodyguard were competing at the event as part of the team representing England and the Northern Region and this was the sixth year in a row that Lara has competed at the Home Internationals.

Over the two days of competition, Bodyguard turned out some impressive performances to finish in second place on the first day with a score of 69%, then really finding his stride on the final day to take first place with a score of 68.09%. With the two scores being combined, this placed Lara in second place.

“Friday afternoon saw all the competing horses trot up in the indoor arena and given that there were over 50 horses walking around in-hand, Bodyguard was so well behaved and trotted up like a real pro, displaying his amazing temperament for all to see,” said Lara, who is a brand ambassador for The Lifeforce Range of supplements from Alltech.

“On the first day I was thrilled with how Bodyguard coped with the atmosphere in what can be a spooky indoor arena, not looking at anything. The judge at C had us over 12 marks in the lead but this was in

conflict with the judge at E who had me 23 marks lower putting me in second place by

just 3 marks.”

“Going into Sunday’s competition, Bodyguard felt really up for the day ahead and was such a good boy, only making a few mistakes which were really down to rider error on my part, not quite getting a square halt, allowing him to jog a little in the walk and messing up two changes, but I

was still so pleased with him as he felt very rideable and like he wanted to be there to perform,” explained Lara.

Lara was also delighted to take home the award for highest place member of the British Dressage Supporters Club and helping her accept her award during the prize giving, was Lara’s new puppy Lola, a miniature Dachshund.

Lola was there in her capacity as newly-crowned Cyden Dressage mascot as the theme for the show across the weekend was mascots.

For further information contact Lara Dyson on 07920 452739 or visit www.cydendressage.com

Image below: Lara Dyson & Cyden Bodyguard Moorland at the Home Internationals held at Arena UK

Shining Star for Dressage Deluxe!Premium online retailer Dressage Deluxe are delighted to announce that they will be sponsoring international dressage rider Bobby Hayler.

The sponsorship deal with a heavy emphasis on Equiline is an exciting direction for Dressage Deluxe, as MD Alison Nye-Warden explains:“We are thrilled to not only be sponsoring Bobby but also further cementing our relationship with Equiline. Equiline is one of our most prestigious and up and coming brands and the fit with this young rider is perfect for all concerned”

The young rider, who has competed at the Pony, Junior and Young Rider Europeans is a senior international Grand Prix rider.Dressage Deluxe – Proud To Support British Talentwww.dressagedeluxe.co.uk

Image above: Bobby Hayler Portrait. Photography by Paul Ruffle

Its all in the news...

If you have a news story you would like

to share with our readers then please

email our news team on:

[email protected]

http://www.internationaleventingforum.com

http://www.internationaleventingforum.com

http://www.dressagedeluxe.co.uk


EQUESTRIAN NEWS

Natural, healthy and complete, Pure Feed is now available through Countrywide‘Our language is simple. Our nutrition is serious’ is the message that The Pure Feed Company is sending out this Autumn. Not only is the company launching new fresh and unique branding, but from October the full range of Pure Feed products will be available to order through Countrywide stores up and down the country.

“The office is really buzzing, the team are on a high and our customers horses love the feed. “We feel that our simple, honest and healthy approach to feeding not only works but provides owners with the added peace of mind that they are buying a quality product at a sensible price that enables any horse to be fit, healthy and perform to the best of its ability”, says Pure Feed’s John Calder. The brand evolved as a result of founder Louise Talintyre’s desire to source an economical and easy way to feed the 100 horses in her care and that was in line with her philosophy of feeding horses the way they evolved to eat. Since there was nothing on the market which ticked all the boxes, she decided - with the aid of an eBay purchased cement mixer – to

literally make her own and so the Pure Feed Company was born!

It’s been eight years since Louise finished bolting together the cement mixer and today The Pure Feed Company offers a range of eight complete feeds which avoid excessive starch, sugar and molasses and which are fortified with optimum levels of vitamins and minerals.

Countrywide is the leading supplier of products and services to the rural community and currently has 54 stores across the UK with a heritage in the industry dating back to 1902. The stores provide a wide range of products and services for Farming, Smallholder, Equestrian, Rural Business and Country Home customer groups. As one of the newest additions to the extensive feed range, Pure Feed will be available from October via Countrywide’s innovative Customer Special Order system.

“Countrywide is delighted to be working with The Pure Feed Company and to provide its customers with access to the brand’s impressive portfolio of natural feeds. Many of our customers keep their horses at livery and therefore have limited storage space, so a complete fibre feed in just one bag represents the ideal solution.” says Sara Blackshaw of Countrywide.

The simple energy rating system and additional nutritional information detailed on all Pure Feed packaging reiterates Lou’s original concept that feeding horses healthily should be a simple and easy choice for the owner if provided with a complete feed in a bag. The range of eight complete quality, nutritionally balanced feeds cover the spectrum of horses from Shetland to Shire to and from Pony Club to Olympic level competitor and are suitable for any horse doing any job!

Championship Wins for Samantha and MichelleWorking sheep farmer, Sam Evans and her 14-year-old Toptimist Utopia secured a convincing win in the EquestrianClearance.com BRC BE80(T) Championships at Brooksby Melton College Horse Trials.Based at Warnford in Hampshire, Sam and the 16.1hh, bay gelding, won Section F and have had a rollercoaster of a few years together with Sam working hard to cement a solid relationship and foundation with the dressage bred Tip-Top.

“We have been together five-and-a-half years but it has been far from plain sailing,” said Sam.

“He is bred for dressage, his sire is Krack C who is an Olympic gold medallist and he was originally bought as a potential top class dressage horse but his temperament couldn’t cope with the pressure.“I was introduced to him by friends and feel really fortunate that despite his issues we have learned so much together.

“Our aim was to initially go show jumping but he just couldn’t deal with the pressure and would stop, run out or spin round.“I was about to give up on him when I found a new instructor in Alison Smith who took us right back to basics and for six months we just concentrated on flatwork.“After a while Alison started suggesting we have a go at a BE80(T) competition but I took a lot of persuading.

“We started with major problems at any water complex but thanks to patience and a lot of water schooling he now loves it and some of our best results have been in the pouring rain and mud.”

A member of Meon Riding Club, Sam’s season started off with a win at Bovington qualifying them for the EquestrianClearance.com sponsored championship.

Added Sam: “We are now competing at BE90 level and our aim is the Badminton Grass Roots championship which would be just amazing.

“I would encourage anyone to have a go starting with BE80(T), it is a brilliant way to join the competition scene and has done so much for me and Tip-Top.

“He has gone from a worried dressage horse to one who now chills out in a field of sheep in the week and then goes eventing at the weekend – what a star he really is.”

Michelle Harris and the palomino, Yella Fella, took the honours in Section G of the EquestrianClearance.com supported championship.

Having decided to have a go at eventing before she reached the big 50, Michelle has now been competing for two years and couldn’t praise the series highly enough.

Michelle and the eight-year-old gelding were in great form completing on their dressage score of 23.

Michelle is a regular competitor in the world of dressage having won the Elementary Freestyle National Title in 2010,Based at Belton in North Lincolnshire.

Michelle said: “I bought him as an awkward three-year-old five years ago but after working together I realised he was the ideal partner to try my hand at eventing.“He is such a star and really tries so hard and gives me a lot of confidence on the cross-country and has matured into a fantastic horse.”

A member of the East Midlands Dressage

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

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

Sam Evans and Toptimist Utopia enjoying the cross-country.

Group, Michelle has been delighted with the support offered at the BE80(T) competitions throughout the year.

“It is great arriving at an event knowing there are qualified British Eventing trainers on hand to help throughout the competition.

“The organisation is very professional and friendly and competing in British Eventing competitions is just a breath of fresh air.”

Michelle’s success saw her travelling home with a host of prizes including a trophy, sash, British Eventing training vouchers and EquestrianClearance.com vouchers to spend online with the leading retailer.

The 36-strong section provided some keen competition with the scores very close amongst the top four places.


EQUESTRIAN NEWSAustralia and Switzerland, and has been located at Stoneleigh Park since 2008.

Graham Pickup, director of Parelli UK, said: “The programme enables you to acquire the skills and habits to become a good horseman and to teach your horse to have the skills and habits to become a good partner.

Put those two together and you get some fantastic results.

“It’s not a silver bullet. It’s not a quick fix. It takes time and patience which is why we have this supported programme that enables people to progress from beginner right through to an accredited instructor.”

Parelli UK aims to cover all regions, from the north of Scotland to the tip of Cornwall, to give students greater opportunity to attend the clinics and courses delivered by its 45 accredited instructors located throughout the country.

“We are trying to make it more easily available to people both in terms of helping them to understand what the programme is about but also to have that support network local to them in terms of professional courses and clinics,” said Graham.

“We are also going to be a lot more active in putting on demonstrations, attending

shows and going to major equine events around the country.”

The new two-storey headquarters have been fully refurbished by LaSalle Investment Management, which manages Stoneleigh Park.

As well as office and meeting space, it also has warehouse facilities to store products available from Parelli UK’s online store.

Colin Hooper, estates director at Stoneleigh Park, said: “The central location of Stoneleigh Park makes an ideal base for

Parelli UK to oversee the provision of its courses throughout the country.

“With an extensive range of buildings on site, we are able to accommodate the changing needs of organisations based here.

“Stoneleigh Park has a long association with the equine world and we are pleased to have been able to offer Parelli UK the right space to support its new business focus which marks an exciting chapter in its development.”

THE UK headquarters of a worldwide equine organisation has moved into a new home at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire.Parelli UK, which trains people in natural horsemanship, has relocated on Stoneleigh Park to a unit that will support its new business focus.

The new base will enable the organisation to shift towards providing its internationally-renowned courses on a regional basis throughout the UK rather than from one central base.

It is hoped that taking the courses out into the regions will make them more accessible to its 3,000 members around the country.The Parelli Programme was founded in 1981 by Pat Parelli, a former rodeo bronc rider and horse trainer based in the USA, and is focused on the study of horse behaviour and horsemanship skills.

The training programme is based on Pat’s observations of horse behaviour, psychology and communication, and aims to raise the level of horsemanship for the benefit of both horse and rider.

Parelli UK is one of four centres around the world, with others based in the USA,

Equetech go eco-conscious by ditching duck down for man made filling!Equestrian fashion label Equetech have taken an eco- conscious decision with their new seasonal range by ditching duck down as a filling to their winter coat collection and using a technical man-made filling.

The evaluation was made by Equetech’s MD and designer Liz Hayman, based on both customer feedback and also from a moral company standing, as Liz explains:

“As horse riders, we not only love our horses, but all animals and the process in which duck down is collected is cruel and unnecessary, especially with the advances in technical fabrics which now mean that you can still have an exceptionally warm coat or jacket without using feathers”

Equetech’s coats and gilets incorporate an extremely warm and insulating polyester ‘down feel’ material which gives the impression, look and feel of traditional down feathers. Researched and trailed extensively by Equetech prior to being

given their sign of approval, the new filling will be utilised throughout future collections.

Image shows the Equetech Whaddon Quilted Jacket featuring the man-made inner. Colours: Fir Green/Tan Sizes: XS – XXL Colours: Black/Tan & Fir Green/TanRRP: £109.50 www.equetech.com01296 688 966

Bucas, the premium Irish rug company, are delighted to announce they will be supporting Carl Hester MBE.

Already well acquainted with the rugs as his team mate and protégé Charlotte Dujardin has been dressing her horses (and dogs) in Bucas for the past two years, Carl is delighted that Bucas will be keeping his horses warm and comfortable in all conditions.

The sponsorship deal was agreed after Carl and his team experienced the superb

Bucas announce support for Carl Hester MBE and his stable of top equine athletes

Parelli UK move to Stoneleigh Park

technical qualities that Bucas rugs offer during the successful trip to WEG. Keeping top level horses at an even temperature in all sorts of situations can prove to be difficult as Alan Davies, Carl’s Travelling Groom, can testify.

“We wanted to make sure on our international competitions that we had rugs that were intelligent! Horses of this calibre can get hot and cold very quickly and in the past we had to change rugs all the time. We found that Bucas rugs were labour saving whilst giving the horses comfort and warmth. The Stay Dry lining is a God send – no more changing rugs every hour!”

Carl also believes in turning his horses out in the field. His head groom, Fiona Lawrence, recommends the Bucas Smartex Turnout for keeping all the horses clean, dry and warm. Featuring the Stay Dry lining, this rug is put on the horses straight after they have worked and been washed down.

Fiona comments, “The Stay Dry lining never gets wet from their coats as it wicks the moisture to the outer and they just dry off naturally in the field staying warm and comfortable. It means we can just wash and go! No worries about them drying off first and then turning out, keeping rug

changes to a minimum – life is so much easier now and no wet rugs hanging around the yard!”

Ulf Casselbrant from Bucas commented“We have always been supportive of equestrian sport and work with riders who appreciate our commitment to producing quality products using the most advanced technology available.

Our rugs give these busy riders and their teams the security that their horses are warm and dry. The range gives them a rug for every situation, be it travelling, at rest in the field or after heavy competition. Bucas look after the horse’s every need.” For stockist information www.bucas.com

“We found that Bucas rugs were labour saving whilst giving the horses comfort and warmth. The Stay Dry lining is a God send – no more changing rugs every

hour!”

http://www.equetech.com


EQUESTRIAN NEWS: THE PONY CLUB

The Warwickshire Hunt Branch of The Pony Club have won the Virbac 3D Worming Prince Philip Cup after five nail biting days competition at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).

The Warwickshire Hunt team, consisting of Kieran Tuttiett (15), Isabella Holman-West (15), Zack Mallalieu (15), Jess Wild (15), Ella Clark (14) and Pete Fielding (13), were runners up last year, but went one better in 2014 to clinch victory in a thrilling final on a score of 121 points; narrowly beating Mounted Games stalwarts Sir Watkin Williams Wynn’s.Four other teams, including the Eglington Hunt, West Hants, Wylye Valley and newcomers to the Prince Philip Cup Romney Marsh, qualified to compete at HOYS after battling it out at the Area competitions.

The final on Sunday evening at HOYS captivated the crowds, with the teams giving it their all, thrilling spectators with some very close finishes. Classic games such as the Stepping Stone race tested the Members’ control and athleticism,

but the loudest cheers were for the novelty games such as the '3D Worming' race where one team member is dressed as a worm and raced over the line in a wheelbarrow!

Lisa Davis, trainer for the Warwickshire Hunt team was delighted with the win and commented “We are absolutely over the moon, and the whole week has been wonderful from start to finish! The win means the world to the Members, especially as some of them are coming towards the end of their Pony Club Mounted Games careers.”

The Pony Club Mounted Games is a competition requiring courage, determination and all round riding ability. The concept of the competition was first introduced by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh KG KT, who suggested that Cavalry competitions could be adapted for young riders on ponies in an entertaining and visually engaging format. The first competitions were held in 1957 and the winner received the coveted Prince Philip Challenge Trophy.

Warwickshire Hunt Win The Pony Club Prince Philip Cup!

Young Equestrians Launches at Turbury EquisportSaturday 11th October saw the launch of the latest Young Equestrians group at Turbury Equisport in West Yorkshire.

A social and training programme for young people, Young Equestrians was launched at The Pony Club Championships in August and aims to provide 13-18 year olds with the opportunity to connect and re-engage with equestrian sport through a fun and informal hub offered at local riding schools.

The Young Equestrians group at Turbury Equisport is coordinated by riding instructor Natalie Sweeney, who welcomed the initial six participants on Saturday starting with few 'ice breakers' followed by a 45 minute ridden sessions and then some learning towards the British Horse Society’s (BHS) Riding School Assistant qualification.

“Our first Young Equestrians session went very well, and we spent quite a lot of time just helping those involved to get to know one another” commented Natalie. “Young Equestrians provides the perfect stepping stone for those who are feeling a little too old for Pony Club activities but

are not yet adults either and I am hoping to find a good group of teens who I can really coach into their next stage of the equestrian world”.

Participants can log their sessions at www.youngequestrians.club, where they can record their activities and achievements as well as access training materials offered by The Pony Club.

Originally developed by Hoof, the British Equestrian Federation’s (BEF) participation programme, the Young Equestrians scheme, is being delivered through The Pony Club and will target riding schools across England. Thanks to Sport England funding, Young Equestrians will provide participants with more choice and freedom in how they take part in equestrianism, as well as providing a focus on skill development.

Riding schools who deliver the programme will be given access to virtual tools to help them establish their Young Equestrians club that include example session plans, marketing materials and a host of different ideas on how to retain teenagers in equestrian sport.

If you are a riding school or young person and want more information on how to get involved in the programme please visit www.youngequestrians.club.

The Results Are In For The Pony Club Likit Open Eventing LeagueThe Pony Club Open Eventing League, generously sponsored by Likit, has reached its conclusion for 2014. Over 30 Likit Open Eventing League competitions have been held all over the country since March, accommodating hundreds of Pony Club horse and rider combinations across them.The winner of the Likit Open Eventing League for 2014 is Katherine Mason, from the West Norfolk Branch of The Pony Club. Katherine, aged 15, amassed a total of 24 points with her horse Fernhill By Design (Buzz) and will benefit from the top prize of a day’s training with successful event rider John-Paul Sheffield and a very smart rug courtesy of Likit!

“I was over the moon when I found out I had won, it just shows that all the hard work pays off!” comments Catherine. “Buzz and I have been in partnership for a couple of years, I got him with the hope of reaching Pony Club Open level and he has guided me through and taught me so much over the past two seasons. I would also like to say a big well done to everyone else in the Likit Open Eventing League; especially to my fellow team mate Annabel Lyles for finishing second, go West Norfolk!”

Winners down the line to 10th place will also receive training bursary amounts, from £200 for second place down to £50

for tenth place, and also a smart rug. A presentation day has been arranged at 4* event rider Francis Whittington’s yard, where winners will enjoy a yard tour and lecture demo from Francis before receiving their Likit Open Eventing League prizes.

Pony Club Branches whose events include an Open (1.10m) Class, are eligible to register for the League with entrants gaining points for places and double clear rounds. The horse and rider combination with the highest number of points at the end of the season wins, with further placings being awarded to 10th place.“Since it started the aim of the Likit Open Eventing League has been to encourage as many Members as possible to compete at Open Level events, whether organised by their own Branch or by others” comments Liz Lyle, Chairman of Pony Club Eventing. “It continues to achieve this and promotes some great healthy competition along the way!”

Based in Scotland, Open League sponsor Likit manufacture a wide range of stable toys and treats. Brand Manager, Lindsay Gall comments “This is our third year supporting this amazing competition and we are so proud of all the competitors and their horses and ponies that have entered this year. The Pony Club remains at the forefront of young rider development and we are delighted to continue to support such a worthwhile organisation”.

Nine Pleasing Passes for The Pony Club ‘A’ TestThe Pony Club A Tests have enjoyed a pleasing pass rate for 2014, with nine of the 15 Members who took the Test gaining the prestigious award. The A Test is the highest available within The Pony Club Efficiency Test structure, is recognised worldwide and helps open many doors for progression in an equestrian career.

Tests were held in both the Spring and Autumn, across the venues of Warwickshire College, Brampton Stables and Talland School of Equitation. A Test candidates have to ride a number of

unknown horses on the flat, over show jumps and cross-country fences during the exam, as well as demonstrating a practical knowledge of lunging to improve a horse's way of going and training young horses. The Test is on a level with the BHS stage 4 riding and horse care exam.

For the first time this year, candidates who did not pass one of the four sections of the A Test were permitted to retake that half of the Test than the full Test, in order to try to gain a pass; both candidates who benefitted from this new initiative passed the Test on their second attempt.

“The introduction of a modular retake has allowed candidates to really focus on the areas they needed to improve and is being proven in the resulting passes” comments William Blane, Chairman of Training. “I have been very impressed with how candidates retaking the Test have

really taken on board the feedback they have received from assessors and have worked at improving their weaker skills and building on their strengths to achieve their A Test.”

Emma Brown, aged 23 from the East Antrim Branch, passed the A Test with Honours this Autumn and commented “I am so pleased that I have passed my A Test, and even more so with Honours!”. “I have worked hard to achieve the Test; I have had a lot of congratulations since passing and even a couple of extra teaching jobs, which is great. It has really helped boost my confidence in my ability!”

As well as having support from her parents throughout her 18 years as a Pony Club Member, Emma was coached by Rachelle Harding BHSAI. “I had quite a bad injury a few years back and Rachelle has helped me get back to the standard of riding

required for the A Test” comments Emma. “Rachelle has encouraged me and pushed me the whole time, and I could not have passed without her.” Emma, previously a restaurant Manager before deciding to work with horses full time, hopes to continue working in the equine industry including staying involved with The Pony Club.

William Blane FBHS, Chairman of Pony Club Training, comments further “I am delighted with the standard of the riding and level of horsemanship this year, both in the successful candidates and those who were not quite to the standard on the day; it really reflects the amount of hard work and time that goes into training for this prestigious Test.”For further details of the ‘A’ Test or other Pony Club Tests, activities and membership see the website www.pcuk.org or contact 02476 698300.

THE PONY CLUB

News from ...


5 Minutes With...

Where about are you based? Just outside Horsham in West Sussex

Tell us about your horses… I am very lucky and have an amazing bunch of horses to ride. I currently have 4 advanced horses – Arctic Soul, Chico Bella, Dinky Inky and Quicklook – who are all gorgeous but all totally different! I also ride a lot of young horses by the stallion Chilli Morning as my main owner owns him and has bred a lot from our lovely selection of mares.

Were you a part of the Pony Club as a child? If so do you have any words of wisdom for the younger riders of today? Yes I was part of East Sussex PC. I think it teaches you a lot but I would say just to enjoy it all and not take it too seriously

You were chosen for the lottery-funded ‘World Class Development Programme’ can you tell us a little on what it involved Initially if you attain good results you are invited to a trial where you have to ride and are interviewed. If you are selected on to the programme you have to maintain form and achieve annual goals and targets that are set. The programme offers me financial support, all sorts of advice and access to some of the best trainers in the country so is a vital part of my success. The programme is a fantastic support to me and I have now been part of it for over 10 years moving up from the Development squad on to the Elite squad.

You now compete alongside some of the world’s best eventers, how does it feel? Is the pressure really on? One of the great things about eventing is that all through the levels you can compete against all of the top riders and as you move up the grades you compete against some of the best combinations in the world. I always put quite a lot of pressure on myself as I am very competitive but

yes I would say the pressure is now most definitely on!

How did it feel finishing in the top 6 at Burghley this year? Finishing 5th at Burghley this year was amazing. I was so proud of Arctic Soul and so thrilled with his performance. He has always been a very good xc horse but he felt total class going round such a testing track and gave me the ride of my life. I was also absolutely chuffed to bits with how he show jumped on the final day. He struggles with nerves and atmosphere and he tried so hard it was great to jump a clear.

What are your long term goals? To become a regular member of the British team, represent my country and win medals. Of course winning Badminton and Burghley as well!

What part of your equestrian wardrobe could you not do without? In this country normally a waterproof coat!

Can you share any great training tips for riders competing at Grassroots eventing? I think for any level one of the main things for me is to not go to a competition until you are ready. I do loads of training at home and at local shows/xc schooling etc before going out competing. I would recommend going out to other places with your horse so that you both get used to going out but without all the pressure. It then becomes easier and less stressful when competing as it is more normal for the horse to be away from home etc.

Quick Questions...

What’s your favourite breed of horse? Nothing beats the gallop of a pure thoroughbred but I think nowadays you need a combination of breeds a lot of the time.

Mares, geldings or stallions?I think it is important to treat each horse as an individual and if you don’t get on with one it is a personality thing rather than the fact that it is a mare or gelding. I do ride a lot of mares though and I think as they are more opinionated if you get a good one and can keep her on your side you are on to a winner!

Do you have a favourite colour of horse? Not really but I do love a grey!

Images courtesy of Gemma’s sponsors: www.timothyfoxx.co.ukwww.verdohorsebedding.co.ukwww.childericsaddles.co.uk

Photos supplied by David Miller and Katie Mortimore Photography

GEMMA TATTERSALLThis month Everything Horse UK caught up with 4 star eventer Gemma Tattersall. Still on top of the world after finishing 5th at The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials, Gemma stops to ‘take 5’ from her busy schedule to answer a few of our questions ...

Gemma with Arctic Soul



It is not a specific disorder but instead a general term describing ‘abdominal discomfort’. Although colic usually occurs from discomfort originating from

the gastro-intestinal tract it can also be due to pain from other abdominal organs such as the kidney, liver or uterus, this is termed ‘false colic’. In addition ‘tying up’ (exertional rhabdomyolysis), laminitis and even foot abscesses can incur similar symptoms to colic. Recognising colic The following symptoms are not exhaustive but cover the majority of the clinical signs of colic that you may see; reduced faecal output, lying down, groaning, rolling, biting at abdomen, bruxism (teeth grinding), pacing, flank watching, stretching, pawing at the ground. It is important to recognise these so you can identify cases of colic in your horse and seek veterinary help. Types of colic As discussed colic covers a number of abdominal disturbances but it is often discussed as either ‘medical’ i.e. that which can be corrected without the need for surgery, and ‘surgical’ that requires surgery to correct. Spasmodic/Idipathic: One of the most common types of colics that we come across in practice. Abnormal contractions of the bowel, often described as ‘overactive guts’ results in painful contractions. It can be due to a number of factors including diet alterations, changes in the grass, recent worming and even things such as weather or stressful situations. It usually responds well to anti-spasmodic drugs such as Hyoscine Butylbromide (‘Buscopan’) sometimes in combination with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory such as Phenylbutazone (‘Bute’). Impactions: Usually, but not exclusively affecting the large intestine, impactions are firm blockages of food. They usually result from horses eating bedding, having a reduced fluid intake or reduced

movement - therefore this is a type of colic to look out for when horses are on box rest but can also occur at other times. Generally impactions can be corrected medically by administration of fluids, either via a nasogastric tube or intravenously (‘dripping’) combined with pain relief. However, more severe impactions can require surgery. Displacements, Torsions and Strangulations: When a unit of bowel travels to an abnormal location within the abdomen we refer to it as displaced. Torsions occur when the gut twists on itself (often referred to as a ‘twisted gut) and strangulation occurs if the blood supply to a portion of gut gets cut off. These are relatively uncommon types of colic but are very serious. Occasionally displacements can be corrected medically but severe displacements, and all strangulations and torsions require surgery to correct.

The vet’s role… On arrival the vet will probably ask a lot of questions, although you might think these are irrelevant they are actually very important and help to build an accurate picture as to what is going on and how best to treat your horse. Such questions may include the following; age of horse, how long has it been ‘colicking’ for and what symptoms has it been displaying, has it passed droppings and if so when, any previous episodes of colic, has there been any changes to diet or management recently, if your mare pregnant, has the horse had its teeth rasped and if so when?

The colic examination involves building up a picture of a number of clinical parameters and symptoms, providing vets clues as to what type of colic is occurring. A full clinical examination will be carried out assessing everything from respiratory rate to temperature as well as their general demeanour and condition, however the following observations are particularly useful:-

Mucus membranes (gums) and capillary

Colic

refill time: By checking the colour, moistness and the speed of blood refilling when the gums are pressed, helps vets to assess the horse’s hydration status and blood perfusion. Normal gums are a pink and moist with a refill time of less than 2 seconds. Concerning signs are alterations in the colour to brick red, paleness, muddy grey or purple and extended refill times.

Heart rate: A normal resting heart rate for a horse is approximately 32-40 beats per minute. Any elevations in heart rate can indicate both pain and/or a compromised cardiovascular system.

Skin tent: By pinching a section of skin, often over the neck, and seeing how quickly it returns to normal can indicate the hydration status of the horse.

Gut sounds: As well as listening to the heart, your vet will also use their stethoscope to determine how active the abdominal contents are. We divide the left and right sides of the abdomen into upper and lower quadrants and group gut sounds into increased, normal, decreased or absent. Increased gut sounds tend to occur with spasmodic colic and reduced gut sounds with an impaction, complete absence of gut sounds is a concerning sign and can indicate a surgical colic.

Rectal examination: Abnormalities within the abdomen (for example an impaction or enlarged loops of bowel due to a twist) if within reach, can be identified by rectal examination. Such examinations do convey a small amount of risk for both horse and the vet. Resentment to the procedure by the horse can result in kicking out and

hence injury to the attending vet. The risk to the horse is much smaller but there is potential for a rectal tear. However, the potential benefit of rectal examination is far greater than the small risk to your horse. In order to minimise the danger to both vet and horse we will sometimes use sedation as even the calmest, most gentle horse can become dangerous when it is painful.

Nasogastric tubing: By passing a long plastic tube via the nasal passage into the oesophagus and then into the stomach vets can both diagnose colic and also help correct it. Horses are unable to vomit, therefore if something stops the stomach contents emptying into the intestines (for example due to a blockage) fluid builds up within the limited capacity of the stomach and this is very painful and even runs the

risk of rupture. If gastric reflux (stomach contents exciting the stomach via the tube) occurs it is often an indication that the colic could be surgical. Stomach tubing is also used to help administer fluids to a dehydrated horse or to help break down and move impactions.

Abdominocentesis: In certain cases we may perform abdominocentesis or a ‘belly tap’. This is performed by placing a needle into the abdomen to sample the fluid that surrounds the abdominal contents. By analysing the fluid it can give us an indication to the condition of the bowel.

How is colic treated? Depending on the clinical signs and the type of colic suspected, treatment generally involves the use of some or all of the following:- pain relief, anti-spasmodic

What to do if you suspect colic…1. Call your vet immediately

– colic is potentially very serious, if left untreated it can lead to death in a matter of hours. Most cases are not serious but those that do require surgery have a far better prognosis the earlier a diagnosis is made.

2. Decide whether it is safe to enter your horse’s stable. Violently colicing horses can be very unpredictable and very dangerous and you should not jeopardise your safety.

3. If it’s safe to do so, remove any food from the stable but leave water available.

4. Observe your horse and keep note of what your horse is doing.

5. Walking your horse –this reduces the likelihood of horses potentially causing themselves harm within their stable, it also distracts them from the pain of the episode. Ideally a menage with soft ground is the best place to do so, failing that soft ground such as a field.

A bit of belly ache?‘Colic’… is that word that fills horse owners with dread! However, colic is actually a relatively common disorder affecting the horse and can occur at any time for a plethora of reasons.

HEALTH: COLIC


WELCOME TO NOVEMBER’S MAGAZINEdrugs, nasogastric fluid supplementation, intravenous fluid supplementation and occasionally sedation. The response to this treatment can also be diagnostic and if colic signs reoccur despite pain relief, this may be an indication that the case needs referring to a hospital for possible surgery.The decision as to whether to take your horse to surgery is a very difficult one and

is based on a variety of factors including the severity of the colic, the likelihood of success and cost. Unfortunately it is often a decision that needs to be made quickly and therefore it can be useful to have thought about this should such a situation arise. The vet however will always help you make the best decision for your horse and yourself.

HEALTH: COLIC

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Social Media and the Equestrian Business The Power of Video in Social Media Marketing By Equine Events UK

Here at Equine Events we are all visual people. If we need the best way to share or transmit ideas it is always through images, drawings and video. It is therefore no wonder that we thrive most when producing video for use along side social media marketing strategies. We have put together some of the stats and figures to best demonstrate why you should get out your video camera and start filming to increase your social media presence.

Video content is becoming an increasingly important element of the marketing mix and as such, if you are a professional rider or brand you should really consider budgeting time and money to fund video activity.

By 2017, video will account for 69% of all consumer internet traffic; video-on-demand traffic alone will have almost trebled. Online video is quickly becoming a key means for people to satisfy their information and entertainment needs, riders and small businesses that fail to include it in their social media marketing do so at their peril.

When it comes to potential reach, video is unrivaled. When we first started out producing videos 7 years ago we had a simple and cheap home camcorder, and filmed Anna Ross-Davies teaching ‘How to ride a 20m circle’… It went viral; it reached 15,000 views in 2 weeks and we still have riders come up to us at events to say they have watched it!

According to Marketing Land, video is the best form of content on the market today for turning sales conversions. Not next decade, not in 2017 – that’s right now. Because of the rapid increase in high-speed Internet access, mobile devices and social media sites, there’s no better time than the present for equine retailers and brands to jump aboard the video bandwagon.

90% of online shoppers at a major retailer’s website said they find video helpful in making shopping and buying decisions. According to the Online Publishers Association, 80% of Internet users recalled watching a video ad on a website they visited in the past 30 days. Of that 80%, 46% took some action after viewing the ad. If you are toying with the idea of integrating video into your sales strategy now’s the time to do it!

People like being able to relax and enjoy content

passively – they don’t have to go anywhere, interact with anyone or even read anything to consume a video. They can just sit back and let the information come to them. Video helps the user to experience you as a rider or the personality of your brand.

“Make sure you aren’t getting left behind and put

video into action”

Contact InformationWriten by: Merete Hass BSc (Hons) BVSc MRCVSEquine Vet at Hampton Veterinary Centre, Malpas, Cheshirehttp://hamptonvets.ukvol.co.uk

The natural choice in equine bedding

Call 0870 750 0805Email [email protected] www.plevinproducts.co.uk

22 Everything Horse UK Magazine • Issue 14 • November 2014 November 2014 • Issue 14 • Everything Horse UK Magazine 23

HEALTH: THE LOCKING STIFLE

Clinical signsThis can be seen at rest or during work. The horse may be walking along and suddenly the hind limb in question may be momentarily fixed in extension, often the horse can hop or stretch out the limb and it will pop loose in many horses. It has been known in severe cases to need veterinary assistance to release. When this happens the hind leg will be extended out behind and the horse cannot bring it back into the normal position.

It is the action of the patella sliding up on to the trochlear groove at the end of the femur - when the ligament and patella slide up too far then they will hook itself and get caught on the condyle of the femur. The result is that the stifle joint is fixed and locked in to the position.

When this action happens repeatedly, often the medial patellar ligament may have been stretched making it more of a risk of catching. However it could also result from medial patellar ligament stretch. Factors that can affect this... As already discussed this can be a result of an upright limb, it could be hereditary – but often not directly – in the sense that the genetics will play a part in conformation. • It can be through injury or extreme

force on the joint • Kicking and getting the leg caught in

a fence• It can affect show jumpers• Mares that were put into foal too

young – it can compromise their

own structure and nutritional requirements while carrying a foetus.

• It can also affect horse that is malnourished

• Lack of muscle tone, or even horses that have restricted movement and lack of exercise. The quadriceps muscles put constant tension through the ligaments surrounding the patella, loss of tone and nourishment will have a knock on effect of the remainder soft tissue.

• Proper nutrition using pure herbs of a good quality and grade will help enormously.

However this does not answer the question as to why extremely fit horses suffer from this condition.

In these circumstances I would look into greater depth; the obvious firstly – nutrition, quality of the hoof and angle of the trim, how the horses hoof is landing and any other soft tissue tension. I would be looking into detail about the daily routine of the horse – does the horse work extremely hard then is left in a stable for long periods of time? This can affect the blood flow to the areas! High levels of exercise require more nutrients and oxygen to the musculature and at rest this can then be restricted if left standing still for long periods.

Locking stifles can be more pronounced when working in deep material like sand, but also work on a circle (lunging) or walking downhill increases the load on the affected stifle.

The science of the ‘normal’ hind legFor the horse to move and simply protract the limb (the foot to lift off the ground, brought under the body and placed back on the ground) requires several joints to work in unison. The hip, hock and stifle work together to create resistance in its state of motion, to maintain speed and direction in a straight line at constant velocity. The aim of the leg is to move with the least amount of muscular work.

For the limb to glide through the air in a smooth easy motion several muscles and tendons have to work in harmony, some contract while some extend. This simply means that the stifle and hock are constrained to operate as a unit when the foot is off the ground. A result of this is that the hip, stifle and fetlock will all

operate and flex alongside one another. You can try this for yourself by lifting your horse’s leg. The reason this occurs is because the limb is tied together by the same tendinous fibres which acts as a bungee/strap. Structure and functionThe stifle is a fairly complex joint and it is important to understand its function in a normal state before we can look at it in an abnormal state. The stifle consists of three bones, the femur, tibia and patella. If we compare it to a human knee: the tibia is the shin bone, the femur is the thigh bone and the patella is the knee cap.

Let me try and explain; the upper end of the tibia (the shin) has a bony spike or

point which allows us to divide the joint into two separate sections, the medial (towards the midline) and lateral (towards the back) aspect. There is also a ‘bumpy’ ridge at the front of the joint known as the tibial crest.

Next we will look at the femur, the bone that connects to the hip and the stifle. The base of the femur, making up part of the stifle joint has two round projections which we call condyles; a larger medial condyle and a smaller lateral condyle. Between these two heads is a shallow groove known as the trochlear groove. This groove is there for the patella to glide up and down. Finally we have the patella – this is a small triangular bone that is surrounded mostly by cartilage and tendon of which help to anchor it in place.

The locking sTifle The Stifle; the large joint between the femur and the tibia - comparable to the human knee

Please feel free to contact me about anything I have written in this article – and again please remember if in doubt call your local vet to assess anything that is of concern to you. This article is for interest only. Treatment and further informationLindsay Holder – UK practitioner and trainer [email protected]@centreforwellbeing.co.uk www.lindsay-bowentherapy.co.ukwww.smartbowen.com

Training – How can you help your horse?Equine Smart Bowen training is now available for the first time in the UK. Starting in spring 2014, whether you want to be a practitioner – and change your career or you want to learn to help your own horse. Training will be available at reasonable prices. You can have small groups or even one –to-one training if you prefer.

Bowen Therapy A Common problem ...Upward fixation of the patella known as ‘locking’ stifleUpward fixation of the patella is a normal function of the horse, and it is this ability to ‘lock’ that allows the horse to sleep standing up with very little muscular strain. It becomes an abnormal function when locking of the joint occurs unintentionally. Locking stifle can occur in any horse or pony or any age or breed, but it is most commonly seen in our four legged friends that have very upright hind legs. The reason for this is because the problem is a temporarily fixed in an extended upright (straightened) position. So inevitably those horses with upright hind limbs are at a greater risk.

Contact Information

“Locking stifles can be more pronounced when working in deep material like sand, but also work on a circle (lunging) or walking downhill increases the load on the affected stifle”

Corrective management This will vary enormously depending on the individual horse, its work load, diet, environment and duration that it has been suffering.

The tailored program for each horse will also depend on the initial cause. In any case it is vital to assess the nutritional requirements of the horse and make sure they are being met, make sure the horse has regular exercise if it is unfit or lacks muscle tone – avoiding tight circles, lunging, deep sand and steep hills. For those horses that are confined to a stable is it important they get regular in- hand walks for at least 20 minutes two or three times a day if they have no turn out.

Image credit Mike Bain

mailto:[email protected]



http://www.lindsay-bowentherapy.co.uk

http://www.smartbowen.com



Spike came to Gemma to ride at the end of 2011 and in 2012 and 2013 progressed through the

ranks from Novice to CCI*** amassing some fantastic results on the way. Their partnership and success was noticed by the selectors and Gemma has spent the last two seasons as a member of the British Elite squad with Spike as one of her potential Team horses.

A consolidation of their form meant that they were selected as named reserves for the British team at WEG this year. They were not called upon though so have just competed at Burghley CCI**** where they jumped a double clear and finished 5th behind some of the top horse/rider combinations in the world.

Spike is a syndicated horse and in order to keep the partnership together, Gemma is looking for more people to join the syndicate. It is a great way to become involved with the sport at the top level for a fraction of the cost of owning an Advanced horse outright.

If you are interested in becoming part of Gemma and Spike’s success then please get in touch for further information on [email protected] or 07785 773565.

Stats’ ARCTIC SOUL (Spike)

11yo 16.3hh Bay Irish bred Thoroughbred gelding. Sire: LusoDam: Dream CocktailDamsire: Roi Danzig

Best Results to date:2014 5th Burghley CCI**** 8th Gatcombe Open Championships 5th Bramham CIC***2013 4th Blenheim CCI*** 8th Barbury CIC*** 9th Chatsworth CIC***

Likes: Polos Going out in his field Galloping Having his face brushed or stroked Dislikes: Having the rest of his body brushed or touched!He knows he is a star and although he likes getting attention, is actually quite introverted and doesn’t like being fussed. He can be grumpy in his stable but is a big sweetie really and can be easily bribed with polos!

Photography Courtesy of Gemma’s Sponsor: Childéric Saddleswww.childericsaddles.co.ukAnd Verdo Horse Bedding: www.verdohorsebedding.co.ukPhotography credits : Katie Mortimore and David Miller

Arctic SoulHorse profile:Getting up close and personal with ...

ARCTIC SOUL

This month Everything Horse UK was lucky enough to get ‘up close and personal’ with one of Gemma Tattersall’s most exciting horses of the moment, Arctic Soul.


http://www.childericsaddles.co.uk

http://www.verdohorsebedding.co.uk



With time and daylight limited, schooling your horse during the winter months can be a challenge, but lunging your horse can be a great alternative to schooling under saddle. Courtesy of Golly Galoshes, the clever equine gaiter, top eventer and ex-racehorse trainer Victoria Bax gives readers her top tips for getting the most out of your lunging… “Lunging is a technique that is invaluable in the training of the horse and even more so during the retraining of ex-

racehorses. I use lunging and long reining extensively when I welcome a new ex-racehorse into my yard for retraining. Lunging is a fantastic technique used for training, retraining or exercising the horse from the ground. It is especially useful whilst retraining ex-racehorses who are exceptionally weak in their backs, having not been required to build these muscles in their previous careers. It allows these weak muscles to build up correctly without having to take the weight of a saddle, let alone a rider at the same time. It also helps you watch

the horse from the ground to see how he or she is moving” It is important the horse is lunged and encouraged to work in the correct way of going otherwise the necessary muscle will not be used and therefore not become stronger. I use an Equi-Ami training aid to help with this. It encourages the horse to build up the correct muscles during work, helps the horse to track up and work with a soft swinging back, therefore developing good muscle profile, outline and engagement.

My essential top lunging tips are: 1. Always ensure you have the correct equipment for both horse and rider i.e. protective hat and gloves and for the horse a correctly fitting bridle and/or cavesson, roller, training aid and lunge line all in good working order. 2. It is a good idea to have practised holding all the equipment prior to lunging as trying to hold a lunge line in two hands and a lunge whip and stay in the correct position, whilst giving direction to the horse is no easy task! It takes time and practise to become accomplished at this. 3. Ensure the horse moves away from you when you are starting off, rather than them following you as you step backwards away from them as here you run the risk of tripping over backwards or worse still

getting caught up in the lunge line. 4. Position yourself in the middle of your lunging area and ensure you hold and maintain the correct stance to produce effective lunging. Form a triangle from the head of the horse along the lunge line to yourself, from yourself along the lunge whip to the rear end of the horse and from the rear end of the horse back to the head of the horse. This will provide a safety zone between you and the horse, so that neither one gets too close to the other to cause injury. 5. Ensure that you give clear and direct instructions to your horse, using your voice

in a quick upbeat tone for upwards transitions and a slower, longer and more deeper tone for downwards transitions. 6. Always ensure that the horse is working properly forward throughout his/her work. If he/she is not then the purpose and effect of lunging is greatly reduced and you will not see muscle develop. 7. Start with a walk and a trot on either rein on a fair sized circle. Following this I would suggest you activate the hind leg a little more by adjusting your choice of training aid in order to ask the horse to start to work a little harder to develop

Top tips for lunging Around in Circles

from ex-racehorse trainer Victoria Bax

Image right: Ensure you give clear

instructions to the horse

GOLLY GOSH – WHAT A GOOD IDEA!

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Photography courtesy of Thoroughbred Sports Photography and David Miller

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Golly - Everything Horse advert 2 17/3/14 6:08 pm Page 1


more muscle. I work on transitions between all the paces, i.e. halt, walk, trot and canter and try to ensure they are sharp, obedient and precise. I change the size of the circle whilst working on these transitions. 8. Watch the horse’s foot fall as they are working to ensure that the hind hoof is stepping at least into, but preferably more forward than the hoof print left by the front hoof. If this is not happening then the horse is not engaging his/her hind quarters as much as they could do so ask for a little more from them. We use Golly Galoshes over the horse’s boots because not only does the reflective strip help the eye focus on the legs action even more, but they also help to keep our boots and bandages clean and dry –whatever the weather! 9. Introduce some poles onto the circle to encourage them to look and stretch down further. If you are accurate enough you can alter the horses stride length by aiming them firstly at the middle of the poles on the circle, then shortening the stride by aiming them to the inside line of the poles and then lengthening their stride so aiming them at the outside line of the poles. This encourages the horse to think for

themselves how and where they should be placing their hooves without waiting for the rider to tell them what is required. You will reap the benefits later on in a competition environment when the horse has to think a bit more for themselves without being asked to. 10. Once I am happy that the horse has worked sufficiently and effectively for between 20-30 minutes but no longer, I loosen the Equi-Ami a little and encourage the horse to stretch right down to the floor for a few minutes. This is an important part of your training sessions and will highlight

whether the horse has really worked on the lunge or not. If they are willing to stretch down of their own accord this is a good sign that physically they have worked properly, however if they are less willing to stretch then it may indicate that they haven’t worked their muscles as hard as they could have done! “Remember lunging should play a valuable part in your horse’s training schedule if done correctly” www.gollygaloshes.com

Photos: Thoroughbred Sports Photography

Image above: Golly Galoshes help you keep an eye on your horse’s stride with their reflective stripe

Victoria Bax. Photo by Thoroughbred Sports Photography

TRAINING: LUNGING

http://www.gollygaloshes.com


MASTERCLASS: SIMPLE JUMPING EXERCISES

Showjumping Masterclasswith International Showjumper Daniel Moseley

Courtesy of Verdo Horse Bedding, the clever wood pellet bedding, we caught up with top international showjumper Daniel Moseley to find out which exercises he uses in his day to day routine at home riding

Chevejo (Skinny) 7 Year old owned by Richard Hooper.

First the warming up!Warming up is very important for the horses; it helps them to loosen up and relax. You should use this time to get them listening to your aids, making them responsive and to get them listening to all the rider’s commands.

You also use this time for your lateral work. For example riding shoulder in leg yielding and lots of transitions is also a good way of making the horse respond to your leg.

Warming up ...

Simple exercise one: The cavaletti ...

Progressing with your training session This exercise is either 6/7 strides in between each cavaletti. (26 Yards)This exercise is good for the horse’s straightness. Make sure you approach the jumps with a good rhythm and not thinking about the stride.

You can practice your control by adding strides in between either 6 and then the next time 7, lengthening and shortening. A good way to use the caveletti is to do it on a figure of eight so that you are using the cavelletti to train the horse to land on the correct lead.

This month Daniel focuses on Simple Exercises


MASTERCLASS: SIMPLE JUMPING EXERCISES

The approachOn the approach to the ‘Bounce’ make sure that you have a good rhythm and again try not to think about your stride too much. The horse shouldn’t be rushing into the poles, as he needs time to think about where his legs are and where the poles are. This exercise is very good for all ages of horse, but young horses may not have seen anything like it before, so when you are first practicing with them try it a little lower so they get the hang of it.

Riding the bounceOnce you have completed the exercise a couple of times and you are happy, raise the last fence (as in the picture) each time, bigger and bigger to around 1.10m. Obviously this depends on your horse and his level of experience and of course height!

Simple exercise two: The bounce ...

“Give your horse time through the bounce”

“Skinny is really thinking about

what he is doing on the bounce and

that is what this exercise is for”

Working on a ‘related distance’Cantering down to the related distance, you must come with an even positive rhythm and use this to practice your control by adding or lengthening your stride just as we did on the Cavalletti exercise. For example the striding in-between the fences is 5 or 6 strides (24 yards).

Simple exercise three: Related distances ...

You need a good powerful active canter so the horse can stay on its hind leg, which creates power for a good jump off the floor.

Finally always take time to warm down ... Warming down When you are warming down, give your horse a good trot round to loosen them up. Let them stretch down and relax mentally before getting off!



Pasture Management Parasitism&

In the last issue we looked at different parasites which live inside the horse and the best way to diagnose that the horse has a burden. Most species gain

access to the horse after being passed out in faeces on pasture either as larvae or eggs which later hatch and are then swallowed by the horse and its herd mates whilst they are grazing. Domesticated horses are more often than not confined to undersized paddocks with varying degrees of an available food sources, resulting in overgrazed areas that have a high concentration of droppings (Lamoot, et al. 2004). The horse’s environment has a huge influence upon the risk of it becoming infected and the owner can control many of these areas through good pasture management. Assessing the risk: Q&AWhat is stocking density and why is it important?Assessing the amount of land available and the number of horses grazing it is essential to calculate the stocking density. The British Horse Society recommends a ratio of two horses per hectare on permanent grazing (1-1.5 acres per horse) although this can vary according to the pasture quality and the type of animals grazing it. It is not unusual to see much higher stocking densities, especially on commercial enterprises where space is at a premium. However, this will increase the likelihood of the horse ingesting worm larvae, as most species will migrate up to one metre from each droppings pile. Where areas of the

field have been churned up, grazing areas will be concentrated.

Are other co-grazing species at risk?All grazing animals are at risk of parasite infection, but most worms have a preference for one species. This can be used to your advantage if you have access to cows, sheep, goats or other grazers who can share the acreage as they act as ‘biohoovers’ – taking in larvae from the pasture which then do not complete their life cycle and thus reducing the overall worm burden on the pasture and in your horse! It is noteworthy to mention that these co-grazers will still need their own worming treatment plan, and will need to be accounted for in the stocking density.

I haven’t got enough grass – should I put hay out in the field?Feeding supplementary forage can be a useful way of making sure that horses still have something to eat BUT this may be exposing them to high numbers of parasites. BSc (Hons) Equine Science student Adam Taft investigated the effect of dominance on parasite burdens in a group of horses at Reaseheath College. Results showed that when hay was fed in one area of the field, the most dominant

horses had the highest parasite burdens which contradicted what was expected.

What about poo picking?Whilst it can be a laborious task, there is evidence to suggest that regular removal of droppings from pasture is an effective strategy to reduce parasite burdens. Corbett, et al. (2014) investigated the effect of three modes of pasture management; no removal (group 1), manual removal of faeces twice weekly (group 2) and automatic removal of faeces twice weekly (group 3). They found that both removal methods resulted in a significant reduction in the eggs per gram when compared to group 1.

Take home message….Ultimately parasite management should follow a strategic approach – judicious use of wormers linked to season and diagnosis of a burden, coupled with a pasture management strategic which works for the yard in question.Reduced reliance on wormer chemicals will help to combat resistance with financial benefits to the horse owner and health benefits to the horse!

Written by Kate Douglas-Dala

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HEALTH: TENDON INJURIES

tendon injuries Musculoskeletal Injuries: Part 1

Image credit Mike Bain

The mid portion of the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) of the forelimb is the most commonly injured tendon in the horse. As it has the smallest cross sectional area, it is an area of natural weakness, and has the least effective blood supply, which may also cause progressive degenerative lesions gradually over time through lack of oxygen.

Damage occurs when the tendon bears extreme stretching forces pushing it past its “stress capacity” as a result of overextension of the fetlock joint when weight is all carried on one leg (e.g. when landing over a fence). This causes over stretching of the collagen fibres, and once it overcomes its structural strength, there is disruption to

the tendon matrix. This varies in degree from fibre slippage, to rupture and, in severe cases, complete separation of tendon tissue.

Most often, just a proportion of fibres are damaged resulting in a zone of damaged fibres within the body of the tendon forming a “hole”, known as a core lesion.

Extreme stretching forces while the fetlock is extended with all the weight is on one leg occurs as the horse lands over fence. If it over

extends and the tendon is pushed past its stretch capacity, damage will occur.

tendon injuries

what are tendons?Tendons are parallel, longitudinally arranged bundles of dense, connective, elastic, white tissue fibres, mainly composed of collagen, that attach muscle to bone and transmit forces from tendon to bone. Tendons enable the limbs to bear weight and move. Strength is found from the collagen fibrils surrounded by fibroblasts which form the basic tendon bundle. These form secondary bundles (fasciles) which form larger bundles in a helical pattern. The strength comes from this inter woven helical structure. These are surrounded by loose connective tissues, tenocytes (that produce collagen), and blood vessels, but blood supply is poor.

healingHealing is slow due to the poor blood supply and even with optimum healing, new tendon tissue is not the same as the original; there is less elasticity so a higher chance of re-injury.

The first phase of healing is the

inflammatory stage, which lasts approximately 48 hours. Inflammation is always the first response to any damage which needs to be limited and reduced. Inflammatory products and debris cause more tissue damage, fluid and swelling. The longer inflammatory debris remains in the area the more scar tissue will be formed.

The next stage is the repair phase. Cells migrate into the damaged area, new blood vessels permeate the area pushing their way through the swollen tissues carrying cells to repair the tendon, laying down collagen to form a scar and removing damaged tissue. The repair collagen is not naturally arranged longitudinally in the same direction of pull as normal fibres, which reduces its strength. Although scar tissue itself is less stiff than tendon, because large amounts are formed, it results in a stiffer tendon than the original. It is strong but functionally inferior, which predisposes it to re-injury, often at sites close to the original injury.

Finally, the remodelling phase. More fibres are formed to replace the scar tissue with

a stronger and stiffer tendon structure, it is still vital to prevent overloading or excessive stress on tendons. However, controlled exercise is vital to improve tissue fluid movement and to give controlled stresses and tension to the new collagen being laid down encouraging fibres to realign along the lines of stress. However, this collagen is of still of a weaker type. Remodelling continues throughout rehabilitation, replacing this weaker collagen with a stronger type, but this may take up to a year.

treatment and rehabilitation Treatment is initially aimed at decreasing swelling, haemorrhage and inflammation to minimise permanent damage, and later, to guide the repair process. Anti-inflammatory medications, the application of cold, support bandaging, and rest is vital to prevent further injury. At 48 hours to 3 weeks use heat therapy or hot and cold therapy alternating to maximise blood flow for repair. After this, treatments are aimed at increasing the rate and quality of repair, and minimising the rate of recurrence by minimising adhesions and

the tendon injury

Pain due to musculoskeletal injury is the most common cause of performance loss in horses. Most cases will initially present as a behavioural problem or a performance/training issue, early diagnosis and treatment will improve

the long term outcome. This is the first in a new series of articles by Michelle Woolrich, animal musculoskeletal physical therapist, looking into the main types of muscloskeletal injuries that can occur in our horses; tendon injuries, muscle

injuries, bone injuries, and ligament injuries. This will help owners understand how this type of injury occurs, how they heal, how they are treated and rehabilitated, and how they can be avoided. This month begins with tendon injuries.

an introduction to the series


HORSE SIDE VET GUIDElengthening the tendon unit. During this period veterinary intra lesional treatment may include stem cell therapy, PRP (platelet rich plasma), hyaluronic acid, polysulphated glycosaminoglycans, and surgical options maybe discussed. In the maturation and repair phase long periods of box rest are not advised as the healing tendons need some tension to encourage alignment of new fibres, which is where a rehabilitation plan specifically designed by your physical therapist and veterinarian comes into action. Overall, rehabilitation aims to improve the alignment of collagen bundles along the lines of stress by using passive motion, minimum weight bearing with controlled and increasing exercise, hydrotherapy is highly recommended in this phase.

“Horses that perform fast work and jumping at speed have a much higher occurrence of tendon injuries. For example, steeplechasing, hurdles, flat

racing, point-to-point”

aVoiding tendon injuries The main causes of tendon injuries are high risk activities (fast work, jumping at speed), loss of balance/slipping/ poor footing, uneven/rough terrain, landing from drop fences, overextension, unbalanced feet, inadequate training and conditioning for the work required and pushing the horse when it is tired

as muscle fatigue causes the muscle to become less coordinated putting the tendon under extra strain. In order to avoid tendon injury take care to avoid these causes where possible, however, various conformational faults can also predispose horses to suffering tendon problems, which, unfortunately can not be avoided quite so easily. Some of these include long cannons, small limbs in relation to body, incorrect hoof pastern axis, and back at the knee conformation.

We recently caught up with Dr. Doug Thal, creator of the mobile smartphone app Horse Side Vet Guide®

a horse health app for equine owners, caretakers and professionals that has received rave reviews.

Tell us about your app.HSVG is a smartphone app available for $4.99 on iTunes or Google play. It is based on a custom constantly-growing knowledgebase of inter-related equine health information. Essentially, it is a map of the equine health connections in my mind after 20+ years practicing exclusively equine veterinary medicine and a lifetime of being around horses. Think of it as the Wikipedia of Horse Health. I will tell you though… when it comes to horse health, HSVG blows Wikipedia and Dr. Google out of the water.

How is Horse Side Vet Guide Unique?HSVG is unlike any other app or website out there. We thought very deeply about the process horse people go through when they notice something about their horse. It’s far more than just a searchable collection of articles.

Its foundation is based on what I think you really need as a horse owner, after 21 years as an equine vet. It is Observation-based, gives you a lot of information, but also provides you the information that you need to work better with your vet, for the best outcome.

Tell us a bit about more about yourself.I grew up on a cattle and horse ranch in Northern New Mexico. I have ridden, raised and trained horses since childhood. I attended UC Davis veterinary school, and worked at a large equine vet practice in Denver, CO after graduation. I have been in exclusively equine practice for 21 years. I currently own and operate my own full-service equine hospital in Santa Fe, New Mexico. I am board certified by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in Equine Practice.

How did you come up with the idea for the app?I believe there is a problem in the way horse people searched for information on the web. I felt that horses, horse people and vets suffered as a result of this flawed process. I wanted to do something about it.

Seems everyone wants to make an app. How hard was it?Oh boy… it was harder than we ever could have imagined. It has taken my wife and I an average of 8 hours per day between us, for 3 1/2 years to get to where we are now. We have to work mostly in the middle of the night. Of course we have the vet practice and we have a 5 year old son. It has been crazy.

One pitfall for us was what the software developers call “scope creep” – when you have a good idea but it grows (and grows and grows) into a massive and unmanageable project. We had no idea what we were getting into. But the end result is fantastic – we can constantly add and improve the information in HSVG and the end user simply needs to sync their device to see the new content.

What next? We have some exciting things in development. The great thing about HSVG is that we keep adding to it every day, making it better and more complete and the results show up on your phone when you hit the sync button.

It’s a constantly growing equine-health reference that never goes out of date.

How can I find out more?Go to www.horsesidevetguide.com or follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/HorseSideVetGuide If you have not downloaded the app already, please do – and sign up for our email list for the latest and greatest.

Like it or not, smartphones are here to stay. From banking, shopping and gaming, smartphones have quickly become an indispensable tool for hundreds of millions of people. For horse owners, numerous equine apps help track our horse’s medical records, memorize dressage test patterns, or find and map outdoor trails. It

seems like a new horse app is published every day.

Horse Side Vet Guide

How do I use HSVG?Importantly, HSVG is observation-based, meaning that you should begin with your power of observation. It’s designed to used “Horse-Side”, right while you are looking at your horse. That’s why it is made for mobile.

Have a concern about your horse? Take a moment to observe the situation and ask yourself: What do I see, hear, smell or feel? From there, you can type in a word or phrase that describes your Observation – such

as runny nose, swollen hind limb, got into the feed room, depressed… There are currently over 600 Observations in HSVG, and I keep adding more on an ongoing basis.

However, if you ever cannot find what you are looking for, the app prompts you to

Practitioner Information

Michelle C Woolrich BSc (Hons), EEBW, Dip.MCAM, UKCC2, KT2

T: 07515 552 694W: www.cheshireequinetherapy.co.uk E: [email protected]


HEALTH: MCTIMONEY SPECIAL

As a side note, the bones are held together by ligaments, the muscles attach via tendons and create the power to move

the joints, rather than physically holding them together in the majority of cases. Releasing the muscles through soft tissue techniques doesn’t automatically bring the spine and joints back into alignment and so the same restrictions can crop up over and over again.

I started out as an equine sports massage therapist and got great results, the horses were happy, my clients were happy, but there was something I felt was missing from my practice. After training as a McTimoney Animal Practitioner, I am now of the opinion that to truly rehabilitate the body back to full function and prevent further injury occurring, the release of all joints and soft tissues must first take place. This allows functional full range of motion before rehabilitation can occur with the use of exercise, stretching etc. As someone who suffers from back pain due to a spinal injury, I know first-hand how painful stretching and mobilisation can be if muscles are tight and the body

has not been brought into alignment first. Symmetrical muscle building occurs more quickly, and is more effective, once all spasms, tension and restrictions through the joints have been removed.

The muscles that are affected directly by spinal manipulation lay deep within the back and neck. These muscles control posture and stabilise the spine, they are always firing, so restriction and dysfunction of these muscles causes pain during everyday tasks and ridden activities for the horse.

The most important muscles are called the multifidus, which sits directly next to and around the spine. It is composed of two sections, one which runs from the pelvis to the base of the neck and the second part which runs the length of the neck.

The psoas is another important muscle

which sits inside the pelvis, attaching to the underside of the lumbar spine and to the top of the femur. It is often implicated in recurrent low back pain, and forms an important part of the horses core muscles, it needs to function correctly for the horse to be able to work without pain and with correct biomechanics.

Using ultrasound scanning, researchers have found that spinal manipulation does release the deep multifidus muscle. Spasm of this muscle causes a decrease in the cross sectional depth of the muscle, after spinal manipulation the cross section measurement was increased, showing that manipulation of the spine causes release of muscle spasm in the deep postural muscles. In human patients the muscle spasms were found at the point that pain was felt, which was reported to have been relieved by spinal manipulation.

Why use a McTimoney Spinal

Manipulation Practitioner for your horse?

A popular saying among soft tissue specialists is, “the muscles hold the bones together, you don’t need to adjust the bones, it doesn’t release the muscles”.

This common misconception stems from a misunderstanding about how spinal manipulation actually works. It does release the deep postural muscles as I will

explain. The McTimoney technique uses high speed movements to cause a joint to regain its full range of motion, this affects both the muscles and the myofacia, which is an important connective tissue that wraps around all muscles, bones and other structures within the body. The practitioner uses reflexes within their own muscles, which have been trained to respond during certain movements of the arms.

The processAfter an initial assessment of the horse, which includes questioning the owner or rider, watching for gait abnormalities, and checking that veterinary permission has been granted, the treatment can begin.

When treating, the practitioner first feels for spinal misalignments, by feeling each side of the vertebrae. The tiny rotation of the bones can occur either due to tightening of the muscle attached to one side of the bone, or by direct trauma to the joints themselves, perhaps by getting cast or slipping and falling in the field. To release the tight muscle and realign the vertebrae, the practitioner places pressure on the bone to rotate it to its end of range of movement without forcing it.

The McTimoney practitioner then uses a quick movement at the speed of a nerve reflex to “toggle” the bone and allow it to bounce back. This activates the nerves supplying the muscle which in turn releases it, allowing the muscle to relax. The stretch within the muscle and myofascia during adjustment and the consequent recoil of the bone causes relaxation of the muscles surrounding and attached to the bone. This “relaxing and releasing” stage continues over time, and according to

research I have conducted, can continue to create positive changes for up to 2 weeks after treatment.

The nerves, which leave the spine by passing between the joints of the vertebrae, are now free from restriction to work at their optimum, the joints of the spine are now free to rotate through their full range of motion and muscles are now able to work at their optimum.

The practitioner will systematically move through the whole body making adjustments as necessary. Once the whole skeleton is realigned and the deep muscles have been released, it is then that massage or other techniques will be employed to make sure all the superficial muscles are released too.

Personally I use a combination of sports massage, acupressure and myofascial release which gives a truly whole body treatment. I have found this approach leads to the need for fewer treatments to get the body to respond and stay in this prime state, treatments can be spaced further apart because it tends to hold for longer, allowing the muscles to build strength.

Combined with good riding practices, a well-fitting saddle and further rehabilitation exercises given as part of the aftercare advice, the horse will begin to even up and will be able to use itself much more efficiently.

Horses that have strong muscles, good proprioception, and are fit, are far less likely to injure themselves. This is the aim of the McTimoney practitioner, to improve the horse, reduce the likelihood of repeated injury and allow for a longer,

healthier working life. In the long run this reduces the amount of money spent by the owner, by reducing the number of treatments required and it reduces the amount of time to full recovery following the initial injury.

McTimoney practitioners are highly qualified and are trained at postgraduate degree level and hold an MSc in Animal Manipulation. They work alongside vets, riding instructors, saddle fitters, dentists and other allied professionals to help both the horse and owner/ rider improve. Therapists will offer advice on changes that can be made and will refer to other professionals where necessary, to help owners get the best out of their horses, it gives great satisfaction to help a horse and owner move on, prevent early breakdown and give the horse the best chance of a long, healthy working life.

Practitioner Information

Anna Blunden MSc is a McTimoney Animal Practitioner located in East Sussex and covers Sussex, and neighbouring parts of Kent and Surrey treating a whole range of animals including horses, dogs and cats.



Four years ago jeweller Rebecca Wenzerul was asked by a Josie at her livery yard if she could incorporate horsehair into one of her jewellery creations and so her idea for HorseHairs was born.

Josie had a gorgeous gentle giant called Gypsy whom she had owned since he was a baby and they shared a very special bond. Josie had found an American online who made pieces of jewellery from generic horsehair and so hoped it would be possible to do the same with a little of Gypsy’s hair. Rebecca took on the challenge and after a lot of experimentation and practice made her first horsehair bracelet.

Josie showed others at the yard and suddenly Rebecca was having quite a number of people asking for bracelets. Knowing how unique her own horse was to her Rebecca wanted to make each one a little bit different in style to reflect the horse and owner and came up with a number of designs for people to choose from.

The bracelets were very popular and Rebecca decided to set up a basic website so people from all over the country could see her designs and could have their own bracelet made by sending her the hair. As more requests started to come in so new challenges started to arise: There was Jenny who had kept some of her old horse Lulu’s tail from twenty years ago but Jenny only had about 7 inches of tail hair which was not enough to make a bracelet so Rebecca came up with a design for a necklace pendant using a shorter length of hair. There was Leanna who had outgrown her show pony and had to sell him. Her mum wanted a memento for her but as a show pony could only afford to take a few strands of tail hair so Rebecca came up with a design for a very thin bracelet. And there were many people that only had mane hair that Rebecca came up with a set of designs for setting this short and fine hair in a clear glass resin.

As she became busier Rebecca started working with Louise who trained in braiding and resin setting and

together they now run HorseHairs. Rebecca and Louise continue to try and be innovative with designs and come up with new items on a regular basis, always welcoming ideas from customers. Currently they offer a variety of bracelets, necklaces, rings, earrings, stockpins, keyrings, cufflinks and paperweights. Pieces are offered in either sterling silver or yellow, white or rose gold and all gold is hallmarked with Rebecca’s personal hallmark so you can be assured of the quality and purity of the piece.

Whether you want a keepsake of your four legged friend who greets you every morning with a neigh, a memento for a pony that might need to move on, or a reminder of a previous companion then a piece of HorseHairs Jewellery is the perfect way to do it and we are giving 5 Readers the opportunity to win a £25 voucher to spend at HorseHairs.

For more information please go to www.horsehairs.co.uk, email [email protected] or call 01438 880936.

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HorseHair Jewellery visit www.horsehairs.co.uk

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RIDING: FIT TO RIDE

Most of my work in equestrian sports has been to try to understand what makes elite riders so good, with the aim

of using this knowledge to see if we can make them better. I’ve been lucky enough to spend time with some of the best, from jockeys to eventers, dressage riders and show jumpers. Part of my role is to provide an objective and logical viewpoint, to challenge traditional thought processes to see if we can improve.

I’m fascinated by the amount of effort that is spent making sure the horse is right. Our focus, quite rightly is on the welfare of the horse, but we’re in such a hurry to master it and make it do things, often frustrated with why it can’t do what we’re asking. It’s such a strong focus, but I have to ask: “are we focused on the wrong thing?”

We are a load to the horse, and due too gravity we hinder it’s ability. I’ve seen so much time (and money) spent on equine physio and getting the saddle to fit correctly, and yet we don’t stop to consider whether we are using our bodies correctly to help the horse? In my logical mind, surely we should sort ourselves out before heading in these other directions? Then, once we know we’re doing things right we can be more certain that it’s the saddle or the horse?

One thing that is quite evident to me, is that elite riders do not ride the same way as everyone else, or for that matter how we teach it in the early stages, and I don’t understand this. We seek to control the horse with our hands and legs, and this is understandable in the early stages (survival!) but we don’t move on to explore how to use our bodies more effectively. Elite riders use their pelvis (seat) to connect and communicate with the horse, and their torsos to balance it. Crucially, they become one with the horse, unified through collective movement to enhance

what we are asking the horse to do as much as is possible. So why do we keep struggling and doing the wrong things?

I think we’re doing it wrong, and I am consistently blown away by the response I get from riders when I show them how easy it can be when you learn to use your body the right way. It unlocks EVERYTHING. Not only that, but through better, clearer skills you can become more confident and stay safer. Through my Fit to Ride system, anyone can learn to ride in this way, forming a strong partnership with their horse. The mistake people make is to think that they can’t physically ride better, but the athlete is the one underneath you. The skills required to train your body to work better with the horse are simple and easy to master. All you need is an open mind!Notes to Editors:

About Fit To Ride: The Fit to Ride initiative is designed and led by Human Performance Coach, Jon Pitts, who has spent years researching and working with riders from grass roots level upwards to understand how the human body impacts the horse’s performance. Fit to Ride looks at and provides a clearer understanding of the skill of horse riding using modern techniques and language so riders can improve their safety, confidence and performance whilst riding. Fit to Ride equips riders with the mental and physical tools they need to become the rider they want to be.

About Jon Pitts: Jon Pitts is a Human Performance Coach who has been on a fascinating journey through elite sport. Starting as a Sports Scientist in football at several professional clubs, he has developed a wide knowledge base of physical and mental performances. Lucky enough to have worked with some of the leading athletes in a wide range of sports, Jon travels across the world continually searching for advances in high performance.

For all enquiries on Fit to Ride please contact Nicola at 07721 077724 or email [email protected]

Contact Information

BY JON PITTS

After football, Jon was invited to work with leading jockeys in the UK that has led to a position as a highly regarded authority on rider performance within horse sport. Acting as an advisor to the Professional Jockey’s Association, over the past 10 years Jon has led the development of professional rider and jockey training and has designed concepts for both safety and performance which now play a major role within equestrian sports. Previously, he has worked with many of Europe’s leading riders across the Olympic and Paralympic disciplines as part of Team GB’s World Class Performance Program including the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Since then, he has become involved with Equestrian Australia on their High Performance Program, where most recently he supported riders at London 2012 and is now currently working towards Rio 2016 with Australia’s leading riders, both at home and in Europe.

His experiences in equestrian sports, together with a fascinating involvement with free diving (including several world record achievements), gave Jon the indication that he needed to further understand how our physical and mental performances influence us. Since then, he has studied neuroscience and the workings of the brain, and has been developing cutting edge skill acquisition programs. With a particular angle on performance under pressure and anxiety management, Jon has been working closely with several high profile sports including cricket, golf and tennis.

Have we got theCART

before theHORSE?

Riding horses is difficult. The human body isn’t designed to do it and we are not wired up in a way that allows us to develop skills easily. To

compound this, we insist on trying to form a relationship with something that finds it hard to communicate clearly with us.

http://www.fittoride.org/about/fit-to-ride



Christmas Gift Guide Part One

The Equestrian’s

Piggy French

NEW• Three fabulous new colours Metallic Brown, Metallic Purple, Metallic Navy

• Innovative adjustable head sizing ring

• Stylish modern design

• High tech ventilation system

• Lightweight

• Incorporates the confi dence and peace of mind that comes as standard with the Champion Brand

Metallic Navy

A GREAT BRITISH BRAND

ku.oc.dtl-ibf@ofni:liamE | ku.oc.stahnoipmahc.www | 0007 072 3110 :leT

Champion are proud to present our fi rst ever clothing range. The collection is a result of a rigorous design and development process and features apparel and accessories that combine performance fabrics with fi t and features that are especially tailored for riders. Technical fabrics and inspired branding have been combined with streamlined silhouettes for clothing that will take you anywhere and everywhere.

Welcome to Champion Riding Collection

Metallic Purple

Metallic Brown


THE EQUESTRIAN’S CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

Charm BraceletThis beautiful bracelet comes with one individual charm and further charms can be added at any time so come the lucky recipient’s birthday, you won’t be stuck for a great present idea! RRP: £195.00. www.dressagedelux.co.uk

That special gift

The Petrie Athene Polo BootCrafted in a hardy rind box leather (which is more durable than traditional box leather) the Petrie Athene Polo Boot also features a tough rubber grip sole with a cozy foot bed as standard, adding comfort to the mix!RRP: £360.000. www.dressagedeluxe.co.uk

Haygain HG-Go This portable hay steamer will make your horse happy this Christmas, as it is proven to create dust-free hay, ensuring your horse is cough free this winter. The hay still maintains its complete nutritional value and goodness, whilst tastes great. RRP £595.00. www.haygain.com

Mark Todd Diamante Patent Leather Belt – The Mark Todd Diamante Patent Leather Belt, would be an excellent choice as a Christmas gift to add a flash of sparkle to anyone’s riding gear. Made from soft leather with stainless steel buckles, the belt is decorated with diamante crystals.Price £29.99. www.equestrian.com

Toggi Cayman Riding Boots These fabulous handmade full length riding boots from Toggi feature a full grain and patent leather upper, for spectacular good looks. Featuring a full length rear YKK zip, an elastic front lace system, a rubber riding sole unit and a removable shock absorbing footbed. Sizes 36-43. Price from £130.www.toggi.com

FMBs Therapy Systems Activo-Med Rug HireGive your horse a week’s hire of the Activo-Med Combi Pro Rug this Christmas. The rug combines pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) with massage and covers from the horse’s poll to tail, including shoulders and thighs. The rug can be used pre exercise, post exercise, for rehabilitation and at competitions. A week’s hire of the Activo-Med Combi Pro costs £125. www.fmbs.co.uk

Black Country Saddles Atherstone Girth Luxury this Christmas

The Black Country Saddles Atherstone Girth is made to the highest level offering comfort and a superior fit for the horse this Christmas. With exceptional stitch work, the girth has been designed with long strap ends to allow a greater width of strap/billet arrangement. The Atherstone Girth has easy fastening stainless steel roller buckles and is made using top quality leather. The Black Country Saddles Atherstone Girth is available in black or brown, sizes 34” – 56” (86 - 142cm) priced at around £90. www.blackcountrysaddles.com

Our favourite...

The ultimate gift for the horse lover in your lifeExpertly made from your own horse’s tail hair.

Gemosi Spirit Bracelet with Sterling Silver Butterfly Bead

Gemosi Spirit Bracelet with Sterling Silver Stardust Bead

Gemosi Harmony Bracelet

with Sterling Silver Heart

Gemosi Trinity

Necklace

www.Gemosi.com

Custom horse hair jewellery

Everything Horse11_14.indd 1 21/10/2014 08:51:21

Gemosi Jewellery There could be few gifts more special and personal this Christmas than a stunning piece of handmade jewellery, custom made from the hair of your beloved horse. Prices start from €95 (approx. £75). For more information see www.Gemosi.com

http://www.dressagedeluxe.co.uk

http://www.equestrian.com

http://www.fmbs.co.uk

http://www.blackcountrysaddles.com


THE EQUESTRIAN’S CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

For the rider... For the horse...

New 3-in-1 Riding Glove These 3-in-1 gloves come with a removable base layer. The base layer gloves can be worn for general use or for close contact when riding, featuring silicone printed grips on the palm and finger tips, with reinforced sections to help prevent rubbing from the reins. RRP £27.49. www.caldene.co.uk

Manor Country Boot These elegant boots will keep you warm, comfortable and looking smart whilst you hit the country scene this autumn. The classic long country boots, are made from high quality hand finished leather and suede. The boots are fully waterproof, with a durable rubber outer sole that offers grip and stability. RRP around £178.99. www.caldene.co.uk

Champion Junior X-Air StarCombining safety with added glamour this Christmas, the Junior X-Air Star features a spectacular bling design designed to appeal to younger riders. UK made and built upon a lightweight injection moulded ABS shell, the Junior X-Air Star the perfect Christmas gift for those that like to sparkle as they ride. Sizes 6¼ - 7¾ RRP £85. www.championhats.co.uk

Hot Togs Knee Length SocksFeaturing ribbed legs to ensure perfect positioning and made using 1/20 Thermolite yarn for warmth. They’re hardwearing too, so they really do last. With lightly padded soles, blister protection, arch support and flat toe seams, they’re really comfortable day in, day out. Available in pink, blue/grey, brown & lilac. RRP of £11.99. www.hottogs.co.uk

The Parelli HorseManShip BookFilled with over 90 pages giving in-depth explanations of horse behaviour and psychology, the habits of a horseman, and what it takes for a horse and human to truly become partners. RRP £26.67, to order visit www.parelli.com

Keep Heels Healthy with Equi-Med AgGive bacteria the boot with the Equi-Med Ag Antibacterial Heel Boots. The activated carbon draws bacteria out of the infected area into the fabric whilst the silver works to eliminate bacteria, allowing the wounds to heal faster. From £44.95. www.EquiMedAg.co.uk

Chelsea 300 Turnout Fixed NeckMake sure your horse is protected this winter, with this amazing rug from Tottie. The stylish turnout is made from 600 denier waterproof and breathable ripstop polyester material. With 300g of filling and lined with soft polyester, to keep your horse or pony really warm and cosy. RRP £102.99. www.tottie.co.uk

Chelsea Fleece Leg WrapsStand out this Christmas with the Tottie Chelsea Fleece Leg Wraps. The leg wraps are created from heavyweight fleece, with strong Velcro straps and attractive branding down the side. Ideal for keeping your horse clean and cosy. RRP £27.49. www.tottie.co.uk.

Easidri Grooming TowelThe Easidri Grooming Towel is a great gift for horse and pet owners as it provides an effective way to dry any wet animal! The innovative product absorbs water like a sponge but moves like a towel, removing water from the wet animal’s coat as it passes. The towel absorbs moisture with every wipe and can be wrung out as needed. From £11. www.easidri.com

Amuse your Horse with the HorseBall from Cottage CraftKeep any horse entertained whilst in the stable this Christmas with the Horseball from Cottage Craft. This fun product comes in available in small in colours, blue and yellow and large in colours red and green. Prices start at around £5.49 for a small and £22.49 for a large Horseball.www.cottagecraft.co.uk

Travelling with MastaIdeal for Christmas are the Masta travel boots and tail guard. These will keep your horse protected, safe and comfortable whilst going on any journey. The boots are made from tough outer fabric combined with soft fleece lining for durability and flexibility. Priced from £51.49, offered in sizes pony, cob and full. www.masta.co.uk

Rockies’ Health LicksRockies’ Health Licks provide horse owners with a delicious, healthy way to treat their horse this festive season. Each 2kg lick is hard pressed to ensure longevity and contains 10 vital minerals to help replace missing goodness in the diet. Molasses free, this product comes in several tasty flavours; carrot, cherry, mint, apple and garlic. RRP £3.08 each. www.rockies.co.uk

Toggi Rivers ScarfThe Rivers scarf is a beautiful floaty scarf with a horse print in gorgeous seasonal colours. Perfect for draping around your neck for a sophisticated look, or it can be wrapped up close for a super snuggly winter look. A perfect Christmas gift for a loved one! Colours Claret, Navy. Priced from £15. www.toggi.com

Broadland Boots from TuffaGive the gift of a good fit this Christmas, courtesy of Tuffa’s Broadland Boots, for broad calves up to 21” in diameter. These casual nubuck leather long riding boots have moisture wicking, anti bacterial linings and are designed exclusively for riders with broad calves, offering them comfort, style and great performance. RRP £189.99. www.tuffaboots.com

China horse mug Featuring a fantastic image with caption "Nope, no polos yet". This cute horse mug is a perfect gift for a horse lover who's four legged friend likes a treat or two and per-haps is a little cheeky in trying to get hold of them. Other coordinating horse gifts mugs are also available. RRP £9.99. www.thehorsediva.co.uk

HI- Viz TabardA very stylish and comfortable waistcoat. Cut beautifully to ergonomically fit the body. It is fully adjustable at the back, giving you more freedom in what you wear underneath. The 2 zipped hidden pockets at the front are large enough for car keys, phone, money etc. RRP £19.99. www.highvisibility.uk.com

Avante 340 Fixed Neck Turnout From Masta The Avante 340 Fixed Neck Turnout, is a heavyweight turnout. Made from a 600 denier Oxford polyester outer fabric which is fully PU waterproof and breathable coating with taped seams. The heavyweight turnout will keep any horse warm this winter with 340g of polyfill insulation. RRP £90.49. www.masta.co.uk.

Gold Label Turn Out TrioGive your horse or pony an extra sparkle this Christmas with this trio pack of pampering products from Gold Label. The pack contains 3 x 150ml bottles of stock shampoo, equigloss and mane and tail lotion. Fantastic stocking filler as in handy travel side bottles. Use again and again as you may choose to re-fill each container when emty. RRP £4.59. www.manesupplies.co.uk

http://www.caldene.co.uk

http://www.tottie.co.uk

http://www.tottie.co.uk

http://www.easidri.com

http://www.masta.co.uk

http://www.rockies.co.uk

http://www.tuffaboots.com

http://www.masta.co.uk


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Documents

Everything horse uk everything horse uk magazine, november 2014