Innholdsfortegnelse for Issue 522 i Your Horse

CONFIDENCE MASTERCLASSES COME in a variety of forms, and the Your Horse team is always looking for renowned trainers to share their methods with you, our readers, as what works for one may not be so effective for another. In numerous past issues we have revealed a vast range of techniques that can help to banish nerves, from Western riding, to neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) and Centre10 coaching methods. This time we enlist the assistance of EquiTeam, an organisation that holds confidence, eventing and dressage camps and clinics for adults of all abilities. In the first part of our new series, the poles come out in the arena andaseries of grids are built to assist with that all important and sometimes understandably missing element — rider courage. Turn to page 26…

Poor understanding about caring fora Thoroughbred meant that ex-racer Horlicks’ body score dropped to just 0.5 overawinter. In desperation his owner turned to Lluest Horse and Pony Trust. In February 2023 Lluest, based in Llangadog, Carmarthenshire, receiveda call asking if it would immediately take on 16.1hh Horlicks and his fieldmate, Jimmy, a Fallabella/Welsh cross, as their owner could no longer cope. Horlicks, 17, had been acquired from a website advertising former racehorses. He was emaciated, had been left in his field unrugged and had rain scald. "Horlicks had been bought by the owner for themselves, with a native pony as a companion," said Dionne Schuurman of the charity. "He had a condition score of 1 when he came to us, but recent pictures showed that he had really been more…

The racing world is embracing AI to spot the top stars of the future as yearlings. Software is available that uses biometric markers to analyse a young horse’s gait and compare it to data of world-beating animals to generatea predicted rating for the yearling. The system is the brainchild of Tom Wilson, of Racing:Squared (or racing²), and he says that his system can pinpoint with 73% accuracy whethera horse will be elite just by analysing its walk. Geometric analysis of the angles of elbows, hind fetlocks and stifles are the keys to predicting a Thoroughbred’s potential, he claims. “We believe that studying motion and movement in horses [in this way] will be the future of the bloodstock industry,” Tom says. Therefore, coulda similar system be used to predictasport horse yearling’s…

PART TWO FOR THOSE WHO start their riding journey as a child, ponies are t the equines who teach them the art of communicating with an animal. Whether that pony is docile and sweet or greedy and stubborn, these diminutive equines have a special place in most equestrians' hearts. While numerous adults outgrow penies and graduate on to horses, there are plenty of (maybe svelte and petite) people who simply refuse to leave pony power behind. Sometimes that's because they've fallen in love with a diminutive equine, while for others it's because they're hocked on a particular breed. of pony. However, for anyone sticking to mounts under 14.2hh with ambitions to learn dressage, perhaps even taking to the ring to compete, there are some unique challenges to riding a pony.…

NAME: Amanda Perrett ROLE: Runs Coombelands Racing Stables AGE: 54 BACKGROUND: Amanda, who took over running Coombelands Equestrian in the 1990s from her father, champion trainer Guy Harwood, started her holistic approach to the menopause as her children were growing up and becoming more independent. Previously she had found herself at the bottom of her own priority list and was experiencing a lack of energy, as well as weight gain, loss of muscle mass and poor posture, and this led to related issues that included back pain. THE HOLISTIC APPROACH: Amanda’s was a ‘one-step-at-a-time’ approach to avoid overwhelming her, and to set her up for success. Less quick snacks and more whole foods were recommended, as well as three square meals a day packed with protein, nature’s carbs and fibre.…

YOUR HORSE’S CARE CUSHING’S DISEASE | HOW TO MANAGE IT ONE IN FIVE horses over the age of 15 have equine Cushing’s disease, but many owners don’t recognise the signs their horse has been showing until they see the benefits that treatment brings. What is equine Cushing's disease? Equine Cushing’s disease (also known as pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction or PPID), according to research by the charity Blue Cross, is one of the most common medical conditions to affect horses and ponies in the UK. It is a slowly progressive disease that affects older horses, mainly those over 10 years. It is estimated that one in five horses over the age of 15 and up to one in three horses over the age of 30 years suffer from the disease. In Cushing’s…

George, a 12.1hh Welsh Section C belonging to Sarah Louise Oxborrow, showed no obvious signs of Cushing’s when he developed the disease two years ago. When he went lame behind, though, Middlesex-based Sarah Louise’s vet decided that he was suffering from laminitis and decided to perform a test for Cushing’s, too. The successful carriage driving pony recorded a positive result. “George didn’t have a telltale long or curly coat, and it was only when I noticed that he had bulging of the hollows above his eyes that I realised he had been showing some signs that I hadn’t seen,” says Sarah Louise. “I should have known as not long before I had lost a Hackney to Cushing’s and laminitis. He died 10 weeks after diagnosis, after suffering from a rotated…

Spillers is inviting owners of overweight horses and ponies to join its Spillers Slimmers’ Club for support, advice and encouragement to help keep their horse or pony ata healthy weight. This motivating and friendly club provides practical support and camaraderie for owners of overweight horses and ponies to aid them on their weight loss journey. It provides information and advice, including weight loss tips, details of how to body condition score and how to usea weigh tape. OR SEARCH SPILLERS SLIMMERS ON FACEBOOK…

In partnership with Q I would like to try building my two horses a track system, but my land is clay and so I’m not sure how the soil will hold up, especially as we’re getting more rain through winters and springs. Alison Bailey, Cambridgeshire Amy says: First and foremost when looking into land management I recommend learning about your land — whether clay or sand. It is still possible to have a track system in the winter, but for clay you’ll need to install areas of hardstanding. This can be permanent or temporary; for example, mud mats. Maybe just go for it and see what happens during the first winter and then plan in the future accordingly. Some areas will naturally drain better than others, so your system will…

Q I’ve just taken a gelding on loan and I think that his sheath needs cleaning, but I’ve never done it before. How do I do it properly? Alice Newman, Portsmouth Liz says: I would recommend starting by periodically putting on a nitrile glove and feeling inside the sheath for signs of clumps of smegma. Gently remove these with warm water or human water-based hypoallergenic lubricant. It’s easier to do this when the horse has his penis down, whether he’s relaxed or has been sedated, as when his penis is fully retracted you will have to put your arm up to your elbow! If the horse is compliant, apply warm water or lube to soften the flakes and then gently remove them. It’s imperative not to rip the flakes off…

Q My gelding hates having his sheath cleaned, so I try to do it as little as possible. What signs should I look out for that will tell me he needs a check? Sophie Altman, Wiltshire Liz says: I understand that your horse may not be comfortable having his sheath cleaned, but it’s still important that it’s done one to two times a year as some horses display no signs that they are experiencing discomfort. More sensitive horses might show some of the following… ■ Rubbing his tail. ■ Swishing his tail ■ Kicking at his belly or sheath. ■ Poor performance under saddle, such as not engaging the hind end or becoming short behind. ■ Rubbing his belly while rolling. ■ Stop/start urination with or without a weak flow…

Q My mare has a suspensory ligament injury and she’s not been progressing in her rehab. I was thinking about turning her away for a year and possibly putting her in foal and then seeing if I can bring her back into work afterwards. Could this help? Michelle Palmer, Herefordshire Natalie says: Turning your horse away once she has gone through the initial weeks of rest to get her sound enough doesn’t usually present any problems provided your mare is calm and relaxed while she’s out. Even a few months being turned away can be beneficial, depending on the individual case. However, you’ll need to bring her back into work slowly, following a rehab plan, when the time comes. Strain on ligaments It can be tempting to put a mare…

COPING WITH EQUINE LOSS-DR KRISSE IVINGS says… Q I lost my heart horse,a lovely Irish Draught called Henry who I had owned for 20 years, in a traumatic incident two years ago. I thought that I’d never ride again, but recently I’ve started to miss being around horses. I’m quite conflicted, as I almost feel guilty thinking about riding or buying another horse. I’m also worried that I’ll never be able to form such a close bond with another horse. How can I move past this? Imogen Fields, Somerset Krissie says: It isn’t surprising that you’ve needed time to grieve, and that is likely to be on-going. You are really asking about three slightly separate issues… ■ Guilt about the thought of riding or buying another horse. ■ Worry that…

Some of eventing's biggest names will be climbing onto a different kind of saddle this November for a 1,000km charity bike ride in memory of eventer Caroline March. Caroline was a professional event rider who sustained life-changing spinal injuries in a fall. She died in March. Caroline's brother, Tom, and his wife, leading eventer Piggy March, have organised the Cycle4Caroline ride, which aims to raise £500,000 for the British Evening Support Trust and Spinal Research. The 10-day ride sets off from Blair Castle, Perthshire, on 20 November and will tour some of the country's top eventing venues. To follow and support the ride, visit cycle4caroline.com…

There is surelya secret to longevity in the saddle? If so, the five incredible riders profiled on these pages are surely the best people to offer advice to others hoping to pursue their favourite hobby for years into the future… Miranda says: “I would encourage everyone to get started or join in. Don’t focus on the negatives, but instead on the positives. Focus on what you can do, and give yourself credit for that.” Pamela says: “I would advise no one to be put off by their age — just go out, find the right horse and keeping riding for as long as you can. Horse riders are probably the healthiest people physically and mentally. They have to be as horses need to be looked after in all kinds of…

LAMINITIS ALERT The Laminitis Grazing Risk Monitoring Service smartphone app was created to allow horse owners to monitor weather conditions and gauge when grazing on grass poses an increased risk to horses prone to laminitis. Local weather conditions are monitored to predict the rise and fall of non-structural carbohydrates (NSCs) in grass. A rise in risk is shown when the predicted NSCs increase. The app can be used in the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands, France, Belgium and New Zealand. HEAD'S UP! Ridesum’s AI Horse Analytics and Seat Analytics AI technology uses video to analyse the horse’s head position, sending information to a smartphone in real time. It highlights how the horse’s head changes position during a training session and over time. It also helps to identify potential issues or discomfort,…

YOUR HORSE’S TRAINING EQUESTRIANS & THE MENOPAUSE | HOLISTIC HEALING PART SIX DEALING WITH PERIMENOPAUSE and menopause is challenging for many women, and for equestrians it can be particularly daunting. The low moods, anxiety, weight gain and other changes that accompany this time of life can make managing horses and maintaining an active riding schedule excessively difficult. There are ways to overcome these challenges, though… ■ Nutrition: Balanced nutrition is so important for perimenopausal and menopausal woman, and this includes a focus on whole foods, anti-inflammatory diets and specific nutrients that are beneficial for this phase of life. Consuming sufficient protein, fibre and phytoestrogens can help to manage symptoms and improve overall wellbeing (Your Horse, June, Training/Menopause). ■ Exercise: There are plenty of benefits to be had from incorporating aerobic activity,…

“Sometimes an owner’s immediate reaction to something likea kick is to punish the horse because of their own emotions, but using punishment creates distrust, ”says Louise. “It communicates what the horse shouldn’t do, not what he should. If the horse is fearful or in pain, kicks out and then gets slapped for it, that communicates to the horse that kicking out is undesirable, but it doesn’t tell him what he should do instead. "The horse still feels as stressed as before, but he no longer has an outlet to express this. The trust is broken because he's told off for speaking out about his discomfort and this can lead to explosive behaviour down the line when he can no longer tolerate the stress, leaving the owner wondering how the behaviour…

One study on Cushing’s disease, run in the Equine Veterinary Journal, byJ Ireland et al, termed ‘Comparison of owner-reported health problems with veterinary assessment of geriatric horses in the UK’ has shown that while owners know their horses very well, several of the signs of Cushing’s are often mistaken for normal ageing. An example is the topline muscle breakdown and changes in fat distribution. It is a good idea for owners to learn how to body condition score horses and to do this regularly so that they can detect changes in their horse early. Early recognition and diagnosis provide them with more options to implement management and treatment strategies to delay the progression of the clinical signs and keep the horse happy and healthy for as long as possible. Owners…

Email your questions to yh.ed@kelsey.co.uk In partnership with Simple solutions for horse owners Meet this month's panel of experts TRACK SYSTEMS AMY DELL-ANTHONY is a livery yard owner and author. She runs track system livery Abbotts View Livery in Buckinghamshire which she set up in 2016. She also provides track system consultations, and in 2022 released a book, Horse Track Systems: A How To Guide to a Healthier Horse in Body and Mind. Visit abbottsviewlivery.co.uk SHEATH CLEANING LIZ DUTTON, a graduate from Keele University and postgraduate from the University of Liverpool, runs Equine Hygiene UK, a sheath and mare hygiene service based in Merseyside. She has undergone veterinary-supervised training in equine reproductive organ health, and is a director of the British Equine Hygienists Association. Visit equinehygieneuk.com TENDON AND LIGAMENT INJURIES…

Q My livery yard owner is talking about putting ina track system for liveries who want their horses to try it. My horse has only ever been on individual turnout, so I’m not sure how he’ll cope. Fiona Bedford, Durham Amy says: I’ve had lots horses come to me having been on individual turnout, and as long as they can still ‘speak horse’ they can get back to being comfortable in a herd. In these situations I would recommend spending plenty of time making introductions and not rushing the process. Imagine a herd in the wild coming around a new lone horse. They would consider him a threat, and that’s what can happen if you just throw horses out together to ‘see what happens’. Give him a week or two…

In partnership with Q My gelding is very reluctant to let me touch his sheath. I’ve been trying for a while, but he just seems to get cross. How can I give him a clean? Sarah Jones, Cambridgeshire Liz says: This is a normal reaction, as is a swishing tail or leg lift. Horses are programmed to protect this area of their anatomy. It can take a little while to settle the horse, but it’s important to weigh up whether he’s confused, in pain, or frightened of what you’re trying to do. It’s important to listen to your horse. They are big animals and you don’t want to get hurt. You shouldn’t do anything unless the horse is compliant. They are usually after they have been desensitised. Therefore, he should…

It is important to monitor a horse’s sheath hygiene for two reasons: discomfort and health conditions. If the urethral cavity isn’t kept clean of beans the smegma can form a spike or point which can cause a lot of pain, particularly when cantering, as the inside hind leg compresses the sheath as it comes underneath the horse. After removal of beans or flakes horses do tend to go better. There are many health conditions horses can suffer from due to excess smegma, such as squamous cell carcinoma, which is treatable if caught early enough. The British Equine Hygienists Association jointly refers over 100 horses per month to vets for further investigations due to findings at sheath cleaning appointments. Monitoring the sheath and cleaning twice a year means that the owner…

In partnership with Q My mare has just be diagnosed with a small hole in her SDFT and I’ve been given a rehab plan by my vet. I’m really worried because I have a young child and I don’t know how I’ll find the time to do everything, especially to give my mare the best care I can. What can I do? Debbie Johnson, Lancashire Natalie says: Rehab plans are daunting at the best of times, let alone when you have other important commitments and it can feel like a full-time job. I suggest talking to your vet frankly to explain how much you can feasibly do. This is why it is so important to have a rehab plan that fits around the client’s needs as well as the horse’s…

New videos have been produced to promote the safe overtaking of horses and cyclists by teaching drivers mindfulness techniques. The videos, produced by The British Horse Society (BHS), Nottingham Trent University and Esitu Solutions, with funding from The Road Safety Trust, show that mindfulness can lead to safer driving by removing distractions, increasing driver focus and helping drivers to stay calm. Alan Hiscox, director of safety at the BHS, said: "We hope that these videos will serve as an important and engaging tool that will encourage greater harmony and respect among all road users." To watch, search for BHS Mindfulness Intervention on YouTube.…

WHO WOULDN'T FANCY a smart stable where the mucking out happens automatically, where windows open and close without owner intervention, and where they are alerted when their horse is too hot or too cold so that rugs can be adjusted accordingly? Artificial intelligence (AI) is coming to the horse world and it has the potential to revolutionise life on the yard. Al- also known as machine learning - refers to computer systems that are able to perform tasks normally requiring human intelligence by taking a set of data and making a decision or completing a task based on that information. Basic Al has been around for decades, from chess playing robots to cars that stop before a collision takes place. And the possibilities in the horse world are endless. But…

WORK HORSE balance How I make it work: Being organised, compiling lists and having help from my supportive husband, Tim The BBC radio reporter explains how she juggles her media role with teaching yoga, running her own ethical clothing company, Eco Equestrian, while still somehow finding the time to ride Marley, her Irish Sport Horse My job… Like many people these days I have a number of jobs.I started my career as a broadcast journalist and newsreader, and I still consider that my main role. I’m currently working three days a week at BBC Shropshire as a reporter for radio, online and sometimes TV. Recently, for example,I reported on the Queen’s visit to Shrewsbury. I’ve also been a qualified yoga teacher since 2011, holding a weekly class in my village…

As soon as a jump goes up, no matter what it’s size, it prompts a rider to automatically fold into a jumping position. However, Liz explains that for small fences there isn’t enough time to come into a jumping position, so trying to do so can actually throw the rider more offbalance and make them feel less secure, contributing to nerves. “You’re actually just tipping forward rather than folding, because there’s no time to get into the jump position over small fences and it throws you and your horse off balance. Instead, think about doing squats— everything should come through your legs,”explains Liz. “Keep your weight in your heels to maintain your centre of balance, and as much as your shoulders come forward, think about sending your bottom back. This…

FLATTENING THE GLUCOSE CURVE AFTER SUPPER ■ Walk after supper: Engaging in a 10-minute walk after eating can help to flatten glucose spikes, improving overall glucose regulation and reducing symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause. This simple activity aids digestion and promotes better blood sugar control. ■ Incorporate squats: Recent research indicates that performing squats (above) or other resistance exercises after meals can further help to stabilise blood sugar levels. This not only helps to manage weight, but also enhances overall metabolic health. Try incorporatingaset of squats into your post-dinner routine to see significant benefits. BOOSTING SLEEP QUALITY ■ Establish a bedtime routine: Developing a consistent and calming bedtime routine can significantly enhance sleep quality. Activities like reading a book, engaging in gentle stretching, or taking a warm bath with…

Always wear appropriate PPE, including a safety helmet, gloves and boots, when handlinga horse who could kick. If it is medically necessary to handle the horse, work in protected contact where possible. This means using stocks, or while standing on the opposite side of a fence or gate to the horse which will provide a physical barrier for protection. Working as a vet is one of the most dangerous professions, and 67% of vets encounter kicking with a hind foot on at least a monthly basis (Pearson et al, 2020). It is therefore vital that owners take the time to prepare their horse to be handled by professionals, including the vet, farrier and physio, to keep them safe, too. "I'm a big fan of simulations and preparing the horse by…

Samantha Jones bought the diminutive pony Quest when he was four and together the pair enjoyed showing in-hand before she trained him to drive, after which they took part in shows and driving trials together. When Quest was 12 years old, though, he began to display signs of muscle weakness, coat changes and increased thirst and urinating, and Samantha called in het vet who diagnosed him with Cushing’s. “My vet put him on tablets and now, nine years later, he’s still doing well. The only problem is he’s not really accepted taking his medication in feed. However, with a bit of trial and error we’ve found a way to make sure that he gets his daily dose,” says Samantha, who tests and monitors Quest’s results via the careaboutcushings.co.uk website. Quest…

In partnership with Slimmers' Club HORSE’S NAME: Missy AGE: 17 BREED: Welsh section D HEIGHT: 15hh OWNER: Clare Barfoot Clare says: "When I bought Missy as an unbroken five-year-old she was a little on the lean side, but with unlimited hay and the recommended amount of Horse & Pony Cubes, topped up with a high oil chaff, her condition soon improved and she has proved to be a good doer ever since. Like many natives, keeping her waistline in check can be a struggle. She does gain weight over the spring and summer months, but I work hard to try and ensure that she doesn't go above a body condition score of 6/9, and then I slim her down again over the winter months. Last winter she lost approximately 35kg,…

TRACK SYSTEMS - AMY DELL-ANTHONY says… Q My friend and I have just started renting a field together for four horses. As the land has been resting for overa year,I suggested that we set up a track for them as I have a cob who’s very prone to weight gain. However, she’s not convinced. How can I show her that it would be good for all the horses and not just mine? Penny Allen, Norfolk Amy says: When setting up a track I always suggest starting as simply as possibly. You never know how the land will fare, or how your horses will use the track. First things first 1 Start with temporary fencing. This means that you can play around with it, change the width and move sections as…

SHEATH CLEANING - LIZ DUTTON says… Q I've just taken on a three-year-old gelding,and I was wondering when is a good time to start cleaning his sheath? Kayleigh Penfold, Derbyshire Liz says: The general rule is to start routine cleaning from around four years old, unless there's a sign that there might be something wrong, such as excessive tail rubbing or the horse kicking at his sheath. Start monitoring him now and keep an eye on how dirty he is when he drops his penis to urinate. Factors such as his environment or exercise routine can make a difference. If he’s stabled more than he’s turned out his sheath will be dirtier because it’s dustier and less air circulates. If he’s regularly exercised and becomes sweaty, this can also contribute…

Q What should I be using to clean my gelding’s sheath? I’ve had so many recommendations, from baby oil to lubricant, so I’m confused. Trudy Heath, Cumbria Liz says: The only product I use is human water-based hypoallergenic lubricant. It’s the same pH as the horse’s skin and there’s nothing nasty in it or chemicals that could be harmful. Baby oil (above) is an old fashioned remedy and while it was used in the 1970s and ’80s, not many horses lived beyond 15. Now that they are living longer we see the negative effect this can have over time because the oil on the thin penile skin exacerbates the sun’s UV rays, meaning that every time the horse urinates outside, the cumulative effect can present as tumours later on. Therefore,…

TENDONAND LIGAMENT INJURIES -NATALIE HARRISON says… Q My gelding recently injured his superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) and I was surprised at how little box rest my vet recommended. Years ago I was told to give a previous horse a lot longer for a less serious injury. Surely my current horse needs to be restricted so that he doesn’t reinjure himself? Natalie Richards, Northamptonshire Natalie says: Treatment plans vary for different horses. It also depends on the injury. If there is an acute injury, such as a hole in the SDFT that you’ve had diagnosed quickly because your horse has pulled up lame during a cross-country round, for example, generally box rest is an important factor because he will need time for the cells to grow and knit together. Restricting…