Innholdsfortegnelse for Issue 535 i Your Horse

HORSES HAVE PERSONALITIES — it’s official! However, anyone who reads Your Horse regularly will already know this anyway, as the messages from our experts in every issue are that our equines are individuals and should be treated as such. This month, equine behaviour specialist Emma Lethbridge goes further on this topic and explains that working out which personality ‘camp’ a horse belongs to — whether he’s brimming over with self-confidence, or a shrinking violet — should inform an owner’s routines, care practices, and even their training schedule. “Rather than trying to mould every horse into the same programme, working with their natural tendencies allows us as owners to build confidence, improve performance and nurture welfare,” notes Emma (page 48). Anyone who loves flatwork will find plenty to keep them informed…

AT FIRST GLANCE, riding and keeping a horse seem to be environmentally friendly pursuits, but dig a little deeper and you will find that many aspects of equestrianism are pretty hard on the natural world. British Equestrian, the official body for British horse sport, commissioned a review into the sustainability of equestrianism in the British Isles. It concluded that “it would be reasonable to state that the industry is behind the curve in Britain as regards adopted environmental practices”. The report highlighted heavy use of fossil fuels for horse transport, high water consumption, poor biodiversity on land used for horses due to overstocking, damage to the environment caused by worming drugs and the manure itself and high use of single-use plastics. However, it also noted that many venues, events and…

#HACK1000MILES IS SPONSORED BY……

To enter, visit yourhorse.co.uk/win/lemieux ONE LUCKY RIDER and their horse will be the talk of their yard thanks to this incredible prize bundle from LeMieux — and it will arrive with the winner just in time for the change of seasons from sizzling summer to wrap-up-warm autumn/winter. This stunning selection of prizes will see both horse and rider kitted out in the latest on-trend colours for the season ahead. This collection has something for everyone, with colours that cater to all. Vibrant options such as cranberry, lilac and juniper complement and contrast with the more muted palettes of damson, rosemary and navy. Whether the equestrian loves timeless neutrals or prefers a pop of colour, there’s an outfit to suit every style. LeMieux’s seasonal launches are always eagerly awaited, and this…

Email your questions to yh.ed@kelsey.co.uk Simple solutions for horse owners RIDER CONFIDENCE Tracey Cole is a trainer and master coach of neurolinguistic programming (NLP) and hypnotherapy, specialising in equestrianism. Visit traceycolenlp.com EVENTING Anthony Clark is an event rider who also trains riders. He has produced numerous horses from novice to advanced/ four-star level and was a member of the silver medalwinning 2015 British three-star European eventing team. He is sponsored by Aloeride FEEDING Lucy Baskeyfield BSc (Hons) advises owners, including visiting in person to assess and formulate horses’ diets. She provides nutritional back up to Baileys’ sales and marketing teams, writes articles and gives educational talks. LONG-REINING Mary Frances BHSII, BHS SM is the chief executive of Moorcroft Equine Rehabilitation Centre. She has spent most of her life training young…

Body condition scoring is key to monitoring equine weight loss Q My 15.2hh Connemara is overweight so I’ve put him on a strict weight loss regime. What is his ideal weight and how do I track his weight loss? Mary Williams, Lancashire Lucy says: To accurately find out your Connemara’s current weight you would need to put him on a weigh bridge. Even when his weight is known it is difficult to give an exact indication of what his ideal weight should be because there are many influencing factors, from breed and conformation to muscle development and genetics. Therefore regularly weigh taping is beneficial to allow you to spot any unwanted ‘fluctuations’, and this will enable you to adjust his diet and management accordingly. I recommend that you body condition…

HELEN POSTLE SAYS: “ “I rain i water harvest. I’ve got two intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) and three garden water butts. The IBCs are under the downpipes from the guttering. When they’re full, I fill the water butts up. I can store about 750 gallons of rainwater, but I’ve never had them all full. I also take all the paper feed bags home to go in the recycling. I tried to recycle the plastic feed bags at the tip in the ‘plastic food container’ section, but they wouldn’t accept them and so I had to put them in the general household waste. I have a recycling bag in the feed room and when it’s full I take it home and put it out for collection.” KAREN ARKLE SAYS: “I’ve planted…

‘Since Race I have so much positive mental attitude and I feel like I can stand up for myself’ LIFE WAS ONCE drearily predictable for Caroline Bridge. Days would be packed with cooking meals, dusting and vacuuming, washing clothes, weeding the garden, walking the dogs, looking after son Thomas (when he was younger), plus running her yard and riding out. One day, in fact, was very much like the last and the next and the one after that. Days that stuck in the memory for being different tended to be the ones that involved heading to a horse trials, and perhaps picking up a rosette at the conclusion of the three phases. Additionally, Caroline felt unheard. Invisible. “I think being a housewife is the most valuable job, but it’s unpaid…

FOR THE RIDER… ■ Brooke Hybrid Jacket (£159.95) — With a blend of style and technical performance, this versatile three-in-one waterproof coat does it all. It’s a gilet, it’s a lightweight waterproof, and it’s a heavyweight winter coat, all with a detachable hood. The internal zip-out gilet is insulated with sustainable Sorona® recycled fill. ■ Amy Brushed Breggings (RRP £79.95) — Make cold weather rides much more pleasant with these cosy and comfortable winter ‘breggings’. Get the smart and structured breech look, with belt loops and faux fly zip. The technical fabric has a brushed back for warmth. A full silicone printed seat offers stability in the saddle. ■ Naomi Pull On Breeches (RRP £49.95) — Get comfy in the saddle with LeMieux’s new Naomi Pull On Breeches that are…

MISSED A PREVIOUS PART? Buy Your Horse back issues at shop.kelsey.co.uk/ issue/YHR IT MAY BE a bit of a mouthful (pun intended), but equine odontoclastic tooth resorption and hypercementosis — or EOTRH for short — is, in simple terms, a painful progressive disease of the incisor teeth and canines. Its onset tends to be age related, and often age is a factor in an owner making a decision when it comes to considering surgery for equine sufferers. It isn’t currently known what causes EOTRH, but experts do know that the disease process of resorption and the laying down of dental material (cementum) is similar to how the tooth develops in the womb. However, research is still ongoing as to the risk factors and potential causes. At present, the only association…

Transforming jitters into confidence on the yard Q I’ve always felt a little intimidated by horses, but I hide it well around the yard. I own two ponies who are more like pets and I never have any worries with them, but I’m not comfortable with other horses on the yard. Is it normal to feel nervous around horses, and how do I manage it? Andrea Browne, Kent Tracey says: As you know, most people who aren’t horse owners do have an apprehension of horses, similarly with dogs and even cats. It’s a fear of what might happen and it’s often due to not knowing the particular animal. Take a moment to think about the other equines on your yard. Is there a good reason to not trust them? If…

A first long-reining session made simple Q I’ve never long-reined before and have no idea where to stand or how tight to hold the long lines. Can you help? Julie Taylor, Somerset Mary says: I would advise asking for help from a friend or coach to set you up for long-reining success. This will allow your confidence to grow. Also start long-reining within a confined space, such as an arena. HOW TO DO IT 1 If long-reining is new to the horse, as well as to yourself, ask a friend to walk with your horse by his shoulder/neck to help provide reassurance and confidence. 2 Once you’re ready to begin, stand behind the horse, not so close that you risk getting kicked and not too far away either. 3 Don’t…

Let's look at new turnout rugs… WEATHERBEETA COMFITEC ULTRA TURNOUT DETACH-A-NECK 100G RRP £199.99 COLOURS Charcoal, navy SIZES 5ft 6in – 7ft 3in WEATHERBEETA.CO.UK This rug’s tough 1,800 denier outer shell with a waterproof and breathable Teflon EcoElite coating protects against the elements, while the smooth lining reduces rubbing and enhances coat shine. Easy to adjust quick-clip closures ensure a secure fit, and the memory foam wither pads help to prevent discomfort. A removable waterproof neck cover and chest guard add extra protection, and the rug works with the WeatherBeeta liner system for versatile layering. Reflective details improve visibility in low light, and the full wrap tail flap with adjustable leg straps offers excellent coverage. Built to last, this turnout comes with a three-year warranty. PREMIER EQUINE STRATUS 1200 SERIES 200G TURNOUT…

Let's look at durable turnout rugs… BUCAS POWER TURNOUT RRP £247 (extra 300g), £241 (medium 150g), £231 (light) COLOUR Silver SIZES 5ft – 7ft 2in ZEBRAPRODUCTS.CO.UK/STOCKISTS The Bucas Power Turnout combines strength, durability and comfort. Its tough 1,680 denier ballistic nylon outer is both waterproof and breathable, while a heat-reflective aluminium lining and sun-reflective silver outer help to regulate equine temperature in changeable conditions. The Stay-dry, antibacterial lining means that the owner can put it on a wet horse just like a sweat rug and it will wick away moisture, dry the coat quickly and can be left on without the need for extra rug changes. SHIRES HIGHLANDER PLUS 200 COMBO TURNOUT RUG RRP £120 COLOUR Black SIZES 5ft – 7ft 3in SHIRESEQUESTRIAN.COM This turnout rug combines strength and durability with a ripstop weave…

April's best story Planning a riding holiday, but can’t decide which of two ponies to take? Then take both, says Angie Coulston. Angie goes away regularly with her 13-year-olds Elle and Ozzy (pictured here with skewbald Puzzle, who belongs to Angie’s friend Sally), leading Ozzy in a halter. Last year she took the pair to the Cairngorms, and this picture is from Wales this spring. “I run Ullswater Saddleback Horse Trails, so I like to see what other people offer,” says Angie. “Having two horses with me is great because I have an adapted cub saddle and Ozzy carries the packed lunch and our waterproofs. “They are normally very good, although Elle does tell Ozzy off and sometimes the temptation of grass gets too much for him, and I have…

Caroline’s current horse, Trinity O Really, is quiet and doesn’t need to be ridden every day, but he’s in his mid-teens and Caroline finds that hacking keeps him fit — as it does her. “Hacking has always formed an important part of my everyday training, and more so now with an older horse,” she comments. “I ride up and down hills, over ditches and through streams. I’m often out for hours, and it’s so much better for both of us than the sanitary environment of the school.”…

Send in your pics! Keep your photos coming in to yh.ed@kelsey.co.uk Having a jolly Holly time This lovely photo of my daughter, Millie, was taken with her pony, Holly, when Millie was on her way to her school leavers’ party. Holly is a 20-year-old, 12hh Welsh section A, who Millie took on four years ago. They have done Pony Club camp, dressage, cross-country, jumping and some TREC together and we also do lots of hacking in our beautiful local woods. Sophie Bell, North Yorkshire Star photo Otis is all heart Here’s my boy Otis, who I’ve owned since May, when he turned five. The last few months have consisted of lots of lovely bonding time, with groundwork and ridden work, during which time we’ve been getting to know each other…

VET notes WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: What cranial nerves actually are How many there are and where they are located What can go wrong with them Potential solutions MEET THE EXPERT LUCINDA TICEHURST, BSc, BVMED Sci Hons, BVM, BVS, MRCVS founded LT Equine Veterinary Services in 2020 having graduated from Nottingham School of Veterinary Medicine and Science in 2014. Based in Northamptonshire, LT Equine is a first-opinion, ambulatory equine veterinary practice. Lucinda is passionate about all things equestrian and currently owns five horses who she trains and competes in a variety of disciplines, including point-to-point racing and side-saddle. For more information, visit LTequinevet.co.uk MISSED A PREVIOUS PART? Buy Your Horse back issues at shop.kelsey.co.uk/issue/YHR DID YOU KNOW? Cranial nerves are numbered sequentially in Roman numerals I to XII based on their…

Caring for senior horses is a journey filled with love, dedication and unique challenges. Spillers understands the special place older horses hold in equestrians’ hearts, which is why the company has created the Spillers’ Super Seniors’ Club — a supportive community for horse owners who share the same passion for keeping their senior horses happy and healthy. Whether that horse is thriving in retirement, remains active, or is showing g signs of ageing, the team is available to provide expert guidance, practical advice and a platform on which to celebrate a horse’s golden years. Join today and connect with other horse owners. Visit the Facebook group Spillers’ Super Seniors’ Club to get started.…

IS THERE REALLY anything that can match the sight of a well turned out heavy horse? Majestic, elegant and striking are just three of the adjectives that spring to mind. However, heavies stand tall and have a large body mass and clearly they take more work to get squeaky clean than, say, a svelte 15.2hh Thoroughbred. However, first let’s look at the basics. It’s important to realise that a horse with such a big frame and large limbs to match values being turned out in a paddock with field mates. Admittedly, this doesn’t always make for ease of preparation. A heavy who comes in caked in mud — or dust this summer — is obviously going to need more than two minutes to come clean. However, heavy horses and small…

Easy exercises for rider stability Q I’m quite an inexperienced rider, and although I’ve started eventing this season I’m really struggling with my balance, both on the flat and over the jumps. I find myself wobbling and I think it could have something to do with my loose lower leg, which is especially bad when I’m tired. What exercises could I do at home to strengthen my position? Fran Gardiner, Surrey Anthony says: Rider fitness and flexibility are incredibly important aspects for any rider, but especially for event and jump riders, where we require stamina, agility and core strength, so your personal training will play a significant role in how effective you are as a rider. Alongside focusing on your physical fitness, there are some exercises that you can work…

To enter, visit yourhorse.co.uk/win/dengie YOUR HORSE HAS teamed up with Dengie to bring you a fantastic competition in which 10 lucky winners — yes, 10! — will each win six bales of Dengie Meadow Lite with Herbs, plus a Dengie Bobble Hat. Dengie Meadow Lite with Herbs is the perfect high-fibre feed to keep horses happily munching as the autumn evenings draw in. It is a soft, tasty blend of Britishgrown, chopped, precision-dried grass and high quality cereal straw. It is packed with fibre to support digestive health and to keep the horse chewing for longer -perfect for boredom busting. Naturally low in sugar at 3% and starch at 0.5%, it also includes cinnamon and thyme to tempt fussy feeders, plus postbiotics for digestive support. Whether used as a partial…

COMING SOON Let's look at reasonably priced turnout rugs… LEMIEUX ARIKA STAR TURNOUT RUG RRP From £89.95 COLOUR Navy SIZES 3ft 9in – 7ft LEMIEUX.COM This fun star print ripstop waterproof turnout rug is tough and durable thanks to its 600 denier ripstop shell. It is waterproof and breathable and boasts an antibacterial, anti-static shoulder lining for shine-enhancing coat care. This rug is available in 0g, 100g and 200g weight options and is also compatible with LeMieux’s rug liner system if added warmth is required. The patented 45-degree angled T-bar front closure and design-registered two-part front skirt ensure freedom of movement. MASTA VENTOMASTA 200G COMBO NECK TURNOUT RUG RRP £79.95 COLOURS Navy, burnt orange SIZES 4ft 6in – 7ft 6in HARRYHALL.COM This rug is ideal for keeping a horse warm and protected on colder…

Let's look at sizeable turnout rugs… SWISH EQUESTRIAN 200G DETACHABLE NECK TURNOUT RUG WIDE FIT RRP £105.99 COLOUR Red SIZES 4ft 3in – 7ft 6in SWISH-EQUESTRIAN.CO.UK This medium weight, waterproof and breathable turnout rug is designed to fit broader/chunkier horses. It can be used with or without the detachable neck cover. It boasts liner attachments for its wide fit rug liners (available separately) that can be added to increase warmth. The ripstop outer is constructed from a 1,200 denier fabric, while the filling is a cosy 200g. This rug has reflective strips on the front, rear and tail flap, plus sizeable shoulder gussets. It is designed to sit higher on the neck/shoulders to prevent slipping and rubbing. BUCAS IRISH TURNOUT 50 BIG NECK RRP £119 COLOUR Black/gold SIZES 5ft 6in – 7ft ZEBRAPRODUCTS.CO.UK/STOCKISTS The…

Let's look at turnout rugs for softies… MASTA FIELDMASTA 220G COMBO NECK TURNOUT RUG RRP £149 COLOUR Forest green SIZES 4ft 6in – 7ft 6in HARRYHALL.COM This turnout rug features a unique dome neck that is designed to help prevent mane loss. The darted fixed neck design takes pressure off the mane and helps to increase air circulation. Made from a robust 1,200 denier ripstop, waterproof and breathable outer fabric with taped seams and 220g thermal fibre fill, the Fieldmasta 220g Combo Neck Turnout is designed for comfort, the large tri-vent shoulder gussets creating more freedom of movement at the shoulders to help prevent rubs. An anti-rub lining protects the coat and adds shine, while memory foam sections at the withers help to relieve and distribute pressure evenly. Adjustable passthrough surcingles at…

What are your earliest horsey memories? My earliest memory of falling in love with horses was at a school fair with my grandma. She put me on the back of a pony and I just wanted to keep going again and again. That’s when the horse bug bit. I was just four years old. I grew up in the UK and was a member of the South Oxfordshire Hunt Central branch of the Pony Club, but my love of racehorses took me on a working holiday to Australia and led to working for South Australia trainer David Hayes for 17 years, travelling the world with his horses. Tell us about some of the horses who have made a mark on your life. I’ve been lucky to work with some incredible…