Indholdsfortegnelse for Issue 530 i Your Horse

WE HAVE A plethora of readers who have children, and when it comes to putting them on board a pony it is so important to deck them out from head to toe in the latest safety gear. With that in mind, our #Hack1000Miles section this month (page 12) is devoted to the latest developments and advice for parents of mini equestrians. It is timely, too, for it comes not long after 61-year-old van driver Christopher Rogers was jailed for 18 weeks after fatally hitting a pony, Ora, and injuring and traumatising her eight-year-old rider (News, page 6). Thankfully, such incidents are rare, but that’s no reason not to equip our children with the latest safety products. We feature many fascinating experts in Your Horse, but probably one of the most…

Send in your pics! The most photogenic filly around My filly foal, Ceecee, loves having a selfie taken. Helen Hawthorne, Ayrshire Remembering Dee My beautiful mare, Dee, was 30 when this picture was taken and she had been retired from riding for a whole year. We had been enjoying walking in-hand and regular pampering and massage sessions delivered by yours truly. She was such an incredible soul and a real character, but sadly she died not long after this selfie together. I’m absolutely heartbroken. Vic Fitzwater, Oxfordshire Star photo Bonnie's heart of gold I bought the six-year-old gypsy cob, Bonnie, in April last year. She has a heart of gold and enjoys hanging out with me. She’s a sassy mare and a clear communicator. Soon we’ll be doing our first…

Lots of riders come to me with a fizzy horse who they wish was calmer, or a stuffy horse they wish had more get up and go. I have a motto that I pass on to these riders: change yourself to like your horse, or change the horse for one you like. Nine times out of 10, the horse’s personality is his personality, and you can spend a lot of time and energy trying to change who he is, but does that really make for a good partnership? I consider a rider who knows that they and their horse are not the right fit to be a genuine horse person. When a rider is knowledgeable enough to say “this isn’t working”, that’s true horsemanship.…

PART FOUR JUMPING CAN OFTEN be overcomplicated, but at its core it is pretty simple. For many riders the idea of popping a fence feels daunting — often because they overthink it. If they have a forward, rhythmical canter, they are already halfway there. Add a bit of accuracy and trust in the horse and the rider has the perfect recipe for a smooth session. In fact, jumping is about 90% flatwork and only 10% airtime. This means that the work put in on the flat — especially when developing a quality canter over poles and through thoughtful exercises — is what really sets the partnership up for success. In this session with Sophie Clark and her lovely horse Hendricks the aim is to find that ideal canter gear; one…

HORSES AND HUMANS are emotional beings, but women (and sorry gentlemen, we are going to be talking about female equestrians here because research has shown that the majority of riders are ladies) often cope with life’s challenges by burying their emotions and going into ‘survival mode’. Frequently juggling a job, a family and a horse (or more than one), and living life in the proverbial fast lane during virtually every waking moment, perhaps also carrying emotional ‘baggage’, is it any wonder that the equestrian who turns up at the yard is probably tired, stressed, bad tempered, on a tight schedule and in a vast hurry. Additionally, at the yard there may be a ‘keeping up with the Joneses’ mindset, and perhaps a form of coercion to conform to other’s viewpoints…

Email your questions to yh.ed@kelsey.co.uk Simple solutions for horse owners Meet this month's panel of experts INSURANCE Anthony Burnett MSc Dip CII is equestrian schemes underwriting specialist at SEIB Insurance Brokers. He has a wealth of equine insurance expertise that spans over two decades at the company and he plays a vital role in developing SEIB’s horse insurance products. STRANGLES Nic de Brauwere is a veterinary surgeon and head of welfare and behaviour at Redwings Horse Sanctuary, where he oversees the rescue and rehabilitation of vulnerable equines, including screening all new arrivals for strangles and treating cases as they are identified. BRIDLES Tricia Nassau-Williams is a qualified bit and bridle fitter, saddler, saddle fitter and Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Loriners. She previously ran her own retail saddlery shop,…

Q My mare has had strangles in the past, so does this make her more susceptible in the future? Dani Morris, Dorset Nic says: Any horse is at risk of strangles. Although previous infection can initially provide some natural immunity, this will wane over time. Although horses who haven’t been exposed to strangles before will generally face a higher risk of developing serious, debilitating symptoms, those whose immune systems can ‘recognise’ strangles through prior experience may maintain a degree of immunity if they are regularly exposed to Strep equi bacteria through contact with other infected horses, or contaminated environments or people. The severity of the disease will depend on the quantity of bacteria they are exposed to at the point of infection. Horses with underdeveloped or compromised immune systems also…

BRIDLES - TRICIA NASSAU-WILLIAMS says… Q I’ve had my horse for 10 years and I’ve ridden him in the same traditional bridle in all that time. However, I’m beginning to wonder if I should start to look at more modern options, or is it still OK to use a traditional style bridle? Zara Hardy, Hertfordshire Tricia says: It isn’t wrong to use a traditional bridle. The most critical element is that it fits correctly and is appropriate for your horse and his work, whether that is competing or leisure riding. If he’s going well in his current bridle, it’s in good condition and the stitching and buckles are sound then you don’t have to change. That said, why not ask a bit and bridle fitter if you can hire a…

Q Do I need my own horse for horseback archery or do centres and trainers tend to provide ready trained horses? Jo Seaward, Dorset Lauran says: You can use your own horse for horseback archery or alternatively there are places like Knights of Middle England, The Centre Of Horseback Combat and Wilder Ways which offer experience days with pre-trained horses. Some clubs also have access to hire horses and these include Epona Mounted Archers in Wales. There is plenty of information about all of these online, so do some research before you reach out to one or some of them.…

TECHNICAL, TOUGH AND TAILORED Racesafe, the company that is renowned for its equestrian safety equipment, has launched a Performance collection of clothing. The stylish range includes everyday breeches, riding tights, base layers, competition breeches, show shirts, caps and riding socks. Each item is designed to offer riders performance, comfort and style. Using high-performance fabrics and a flattering, functional fit, the collection offers breathability, moisture management and complete freedom of movement. RRP £65 (riding tights), from £120 (breeches), £55 (base layer), £14 (socks) RACESAFE.CO STAY WARM, BE CHIC The Dublin Insulated Hybrid Jacket is a stylish, showerproof garment with quilted front and back panels for lightweight warmth. The soft fleece side panels and sleeves enhance the comfort factor for happy times at the yard or about town. RRP £54.99 WEATHERBEETA.CO.UK WINNIE…

BRUSHING BOOTS ARE a popular bit of kit among active horse owners. They are designed to protect a horse’s legs from knocks and scrapes caused by his legs brushing together, hence the name — ‘brushing’ boots. They are widely used for daily riding, including schooling, hacking, lungeing and jumping. With so many styles, materials and designs available, however, choosing the right pair can feel overwhelming. To help you, though, over the last three months our panel of testers has put a variety of brushing boots to the test, using them on a daily basis to discover how they meet a horse’s needs. Read on to discover which ones came out on top… How we score: Each set of boots was marked out of five for fit, performance and value for…

■ Coordination and balance — Riding helps youngsters develop a strong core and learn to maintain stability on a moving animal. ■ Physical fitness and strength — Legs, arms, core and back all benefit from riding a horse. And grooming a muddy pony is a real workout. ■ Dexterity — Tacking up, grooming, leading and other horsey tasks all improve hand/eye coordination. ■ Digital detox — Ponies are the perfect antidote to hours spent in front of a TV, phone, or computer ■ Confidence — Mastering a challenge, be that rising trot or a little jump, can be a real boost to self-esteem. ■ Calm — Horses are known stressbusters and hanging out with an equine friend calms anxiety. ■ Compassion and responsibility — Learning to look after an equine…

PART THREE IN MY VIEW, horsemanship is constant. That means, as a rider, even hacking out is work. I’m never on the buckle and chatting absent-mindedly to a friend because where does that leave my horse? We’re supposed to be a partnership, so if I don’t hold up my end of the bargain and I leave him to his own devices, how does he know that I’m there for him in a situation that makes him unsure or afraid? Partnership is the keyword here — my job is to be fair, consistent and clear; his job is to listen. A rider who is truly their horse’s partner is far less likely to fall off. For me, that partnership starts not when my foot finds the stirrup, but much earlier. In…

“I KNOW HOW important Pilates and stretching are for my own wellbeing and fitness,” writes dressage star Laura Tomlinson. “I can feel the difference when I miss a session. It’s a full body workout that incorporates specific controlled movements to improve strength, flexibility, balance and posture. Now these benefits are being brought to our horses. And not only will your horse benefit from the physical Pilates exercises, but you will also find mental benefits, as relaxed muscles lead to relaxed minds. I also like the way that working with your horse in this way will improve your bond and connection.” Pilates can help virtually every part of the horse, but here we are concentrating on the head and neck… A giant pendulum The head and neck together account for about…

INSURANCE - ANTHONY BURNETT says… Q I have a horse who has just turned 20. We don’t do much together — just light hacking around the lanes near my home a couple of times a week. I can’t see the point of insuring him. What are your thoughts? Karen Browne, Somerset Anthony says: At 20 years old and only in light work, insuring your horse may not seem necessary, especially if you’re comfortable covering vet costs yourself. However, insurance can still be beneficial and it is important to consider… ■ Public liability insurance — Horses are unpredictable and accidents can happen. For example, he could spook while you’re out hacking on the roads and cause damage or injury to another person or their property. In these cases you could be…

Q I bought a horse recently who ended up having a bout of colic at the yard I moved him to. The vet was called and fortunately he made a good recovery, but it was serious at the time. I can’t help feeling that this was to do with the radical change in grazing and location as he had been at his previous home for his entire life. Do I need to tell my insurance company about this bout and if so will it affect the cost going forward? Gillian Hoskins, Gwent Anthony says: I’m pleased to hear that your horse made a full recovery and is now settled into his new home. You should always inform your insurance provider of such incidents, as most policies require you to disclose…

Q There was an outbreak of strangles at the yard I have recently moved my mare to (but before I moved her in) and I’m terrified that she may catch it. Is this likely after the event or will the yard have been obliged to carry out disinfecting procedures? Wendy Davies, North Yorkshire Nic says: As strangles isn’t a notifiable disease there are no obligations imposed on yards to manage an outbreak in a particular way. However, there are clear guidelines on the best way to contain and clear an outbreak and horse owners and yard managers should always work with a vet when affected by the disease to ensure the yard no longer poses a risk of infection to new arrivals/unaffected horses. Recent research suggests that the majority of…

Q There has been a discussion at my yard about anatomical style bridles and I’m feeling pressured to buy one. However, I don’t know anything about them or what issues they are supposed to assist with. Cora Collins, West Midlands Tricia says: When you keep your horse in a big yard it is easy to get caught up in what others are doing, and to perhaps feel inadequate if you don’t follow them. While it’s good to have others to inspire you, it is best to gain confidence by seeking advice from an independent professional, such as an instructor or saddle and bridle fitter. If your horse is relaxed in his bridle and working well then there is no need to make a sudden change. However, with time you may…

Q I want to train my horse for horseback archery. Can you recommend a couple of exercises for desensitisation? Poppy Sutherland, North Yorkshire Lauran says: To desensitise your horse, I recommend contacting a local coach. Working with a professional will ensure that the horse trusts you and that you don’t move on too fast. They will work with you to find the most appropriate training method, whether that’s positive reinforcement, clicker training, CAT-H, or other forms of horsemanship. If desensitising your own horse, always start with groundwork. Great things to practise at home, in a safe, enclosed space, are… ■ Riding without reins — Start at a walk and with loose reins, and don’t worry about steering. You’re aiming for you and the horse to be relaxed with little rein…

ANY EQUESTRIAN BOUND for the competition circuit will want to take their horse’s turnout to the next level, and a well-plaited mane can help with that. Whether heading to the show ring, competing at a local dressage contest, or entered for a horse trials, neat, tight, professional-looking braids will set a horse apart from the rest of the crowd and maybe even catch the judge’s eye. However, achieving perfect plaits doesn’t happen overnight. It takes practice and it also isn’t just about skillsets. Having the right tools and products to help will make a difference, ensuring that the job is easier and that show-winning results are created every time. To help those who are bound for the competitive fray, we have rounded up the best plaiting essentials to help create…

PIKEUR HAS LONG been the choice of many of the world’s top riders. Renowned for its design, cut and technologically advanced fabrics, Pikeur makes clothing that really works for riders. This is why the readers of Your Horse will be delighted to hear that two of them will each win a Pikeur outfit made up of an Isalie Show Jacket, a pair of Laure Breeches and the competition shirt of their choice*, each prize bundle worth at least £530. Two seasonal collections a year from Pikeur introduce colour and fashion to the yard, with an exciting range of fashionable yet functional clothing that will take the equestrian from the stable to the high street. Meanwhile, Pikeur’s standard collection is crammed full of superb competition and riding clothing that will make…

The Mars Badminton Horse Trials runs from 7-11 May. For information and to buy tickets, visit badmintonhorse.co.uk How I make it work: My boss [Jane Tuckwell] is super-flexible, and my mum and boyfriend help with the horses when necessary. A member of the busy Badminton Horse Trials organising team, Tigger Bush talks about posting out passes, race riding, cooking for a famous trainer and her love of sailing. My job… I’m an administrative assistant at Badminton Horse Trials and my job involves posting out hundreds of passes for the event, including vehicle passes for officials, fence judges and course-builders, refreshment vouchers, contractors’ tickets and even cocktail party invites. All require different briefs to go in the relevant envelope depending on their role. I’ve worked at Badminton since I was fresh…

A horse who enjoys his work is a horse who will want to be your partner — and that’s brilliant. My horses never do the same thing from day to day, and I keep my training sessions short. This stops them from becoming sour and means that the session ends before there’s any chance of things going wrong. This means that I often do several sessions a day with my horses. They all live out, so I might bring them in at breakfast time and do 10 minutes, then pop them in their stables with hay while I have a coffee. Then I might do another 10 minute session, followed by a final one after lunch. As a result, they’re never bored and are always ready to listen.…

THE WARM-UP area at a competition can become so frenetic that even the pros can struggle to keep a lid on their horse — and therefore what hope does the novice or nervous rider have in such an environment? Horses often find themselves packed into a very small space, with limited room to move, and may become involved in a bit of a bun fight to jump the practice fences if this is a jumping contest. When things go well in the warm-up, though, this is where horse and rider can get mentally and physically ready to really shine in the arena proper before a dressage judge or over a course of fences. However, working around other equestrians and their competitive equines often isn’t a picnic. Sometimes, in fact, the…

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 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. Scan me…

Q I have only hacked my horse since buying him three years ago, but I’m starting to feel a bit more confident on him and am thinking of trying more things this year, such as fun rides and maybe even some affiliated showjumping and riding club competitions. I have basic insurance cover. Will this need to change with this change of use? Rebecca Starr, Northumberland Anthony says: Most likely, yes. If you’re moving from hacking to fun rides, endurance, or competitions, you should check your policy and inform your insurance provider. Whether you need to increase your cover will depend on the terms and conditions of your specific policy/ insurance provider. If you’re not insured for the appropriate activities and at the appropriate level, such as for unaffiliated or affiliated…

STRANGLES - NIC DE BRAUWERE says… Q At the equestrian centre where I have lessons they have been discussing strangles and why it’s so contagious. I heard them say that yards have to shut down. Is this true? Rosie Dent, Norfolk Nic says: Strangles is a highly contagious disease that affects a horse’s upper respiratory tract. It is caused by a bacteria, Streptococcus equi, and symptoms can include profuse nasal discharge and abscesses that may burst either externally or internally (that then give rise to the nasal discharge). Even small quantities of the resulting snot and pus are likely to contain many millions of strangles bacteria, and even tiny amounts of bacteria present a high risk of infection to other horses. The environment around an infected horse can become heavily…

Q I’ve heard that there’s a strangles vaccine, but no one at my yard seems to know anything about it. Can you explain what it contains and what horses it should be given to? Chloe Peters, Dumfries and Galloway Nic says: A next generation strangles vaccine became available in the UK in 2022. It doesn’t contain any live strangles bacteria, meaning that it isn’t possible for horses to become infected from being vaccinated. The vaccination primes the horse’s immune system to be better able to fight off strangles should he be exposed to Strep equi bacteria. After an initial course of two injections four weeks apart, a regular booster can be given to maintain an appropriate level of immune support. The vaccine is administered into the muscle, and while some…

HORSEBACK ARCHERY - LAURAN EVANS says… Those new to horseback archery can start their search for more information by visiting the British Horseback Archery Association (BHAA) website (bhaa.org.uk) for its directory, or the Horseback Archery UK Facebook group. Here there is a map that contains all the coaches and clubs in the UK, as well as the events that are coming up. Q My friend has tried horseback archery and has been raving about it. Can you tell me in detail what it consists of and what skills I would need before I sign up for a lesson as I’m a fairly novice rider. Sacha Browne, Berkshire Lauran says: Horseback archery is a sport for everyone, from lead rein novices to experienced riders. You won’t need any archery experience as…

To enter, visit yourhorse.co.uk/win/premier-equine PREMIER EQUINE HAS joined forces with Your Horse to give away a £1,000 bundle to one lucky reader. The bundle is packed with brand new 2025 products for both the winner and their fortunate horse. From premium riding apparel to top quality horse equipment, this amazing prize has everything an equestrian needs to upgrade both their own and their four-legged partner’s wardrobe. All about the prize ■ Cedo Ladies Leather Field Tall Riding Boots (below) are the perfect blend of style, comfort and performance for serious equestrians. Crafted from high quality durable leather, these boots feature a specialist jumping sole for optimal grip, flexibility and shock absorption, making them ideal for showjumping and other disciplines that require precise footwork. ■ The Evinco Ladies Competition Jacket from…

COLDSTREAM SUNWICK READY TIED STOCK RRP £44.99 COLOUR White COLDSTREAMEQUESTRIAN.CO.UK This beautiful satin, ready tied stock is designed with elegant silver diamantés and navy suede edging. The adjustable Velcro fastening ensures a perfect fit, and ultimately this stock will add a touch of elegance to any competition outfit. LEMIEUX CLASSIC STOCK RRP £19.95 COLOUR White LEMIEUX.COM A classic plain ready tied stock made in a soft, breathable fabric, LeMieux’s Classic Stock has a cross-over front and a detachable stock pin. A hook and loop fastening gives an adjustable and comfortable fit at the back of the neck. All in all, this is a smart and practical stock for any discipline. ELT LADIES PLASTRON GRAZIA STOCK RRP £19.95 COLOUR White WALDHAUSEN.COM/GSEQUESTRIAN.CO.UK This is an elegant stock that is made from a…

5 1.5KG TUBS OF TURMERBREATHE UP FOR GRABS Anyone who owns a horse or pony who is prone to respiratory issues will no doubt want to win a 1.5kg tub of TurmerBreathe™. And that’s just what five lucky readers will do by entering this competition, and at the same time they will be helping The Golden Paste Company to celebrate the launch of its brand new TurmerBreathe. TurmerBreathe is a supplement that has been formulated to address both changing environmental conditions and those winter dust annoyances in stables in order to simplify respiratory care without the need for multiple seasonal supplements supplements. Made from high quality natural ingredients, TurmerBreathe provides a safe and holistic approach to all year round respiratory support and it offers horse owners peace of mind. A Respiratory…