Innehållsförteckning för Issue 452 från Your Horse

CONFIDENCE IS A tricky thing. So time-consuming to achieve, yet so easily fractured — and essential to us getting enjoyment out of riding. It’s a topic that fascinates me, not least because I’ve battled with confidence issues when jumping. I’m the sort of person who can walk a course and worry myself sick over a particular fence — perhaps because of a filler, it seems to be the biggest, or where it’s positioned. Often, I’ll clear the fence that’s caused the majority of problems for other riders with ease, but “my” bogey — usually the simplest fence there — falls down. A turning point was attending an equestrian sports psychology session, the sort of thing I am lucky to be invited to as part of my job. That was when…

RIDER WEIGHT Results of horse and rider weight ratio study published The results of a pilot study on the effects of rider weight on equine performance have been published. The study, ‘The influence of rider-horse bodyweight ratio and rider-horse saddle fit on equine gait and behaviour: A pilot study’, has provided initial benchmark information on the potential health and welfare implications of high rider-horse bodyweight ratios. A rider who is too heavy for a horse could induce temporary lameness and behaviours indicative of musculoskeletal pain. Dr Sue Dyson, head of clinical orthopaedics at the Animal Health Trust’s Centre for Equine Studies, said: “The results indicate that every rider — and especially heavier riders — should ride a horse or pony of appropriate size and fitness for the rider’s weight, with…

BLUE ARROW Bridleway — walkers, horse riders and cyclists are permitted. PLUM ARROW Restricted byway — for walkers, cyclists, riders and horse-drawn vehicles. RED ARROW Byway — open to all traffic, including motor vehicles. NATIONAL TRAIL ACORN 15 long distance routes in England and Wales, plus the England Coast Path. Some of these trails are suitable for horse riders. Find one near you at nationaltrail.co.uk. YELLOW ARROWS Avoid these — they are footpaths and open to walkers only.…

‘Side-saddle has me hooked’ I love that the challenge in the Spring issue of Your Horse was riding side-saddle. I took up side-saddle a few months ago and I’m so happy I did. Not only is it such an elegant, fun discipline, but I have issues with my joints and have found it a very comfortable way to ride. So what you say about people who think they may not be able to ride a horse is true, and hopefully they will give side-saddle a try. It’s not so bad for me that I can’t ride astride — and I now do both — but, for some, side-saddle will open up riding possibilities. It puts less pressure and pain on my joints, especially my ankles. Even though I don’t exclusively…

Blue steel Our ‘blue steel’ angle. Alexandra Owen, Newcastle Picture perfect We’re not camera shy. Johanna Crowe, Herefordshire Sunny snooze Dave the Fell pony at work, having a little nap in the afternoon sunshine. Judy Lancaster, Worcestershire You’re on camera Lux posing after our dressage test. I think he’s spotted the ‘Smile’ sign behind him! Sara Penson, via Facebook Pimm’s o’clock Buddy and I love spending time in the sun. Lisa Bennett, via Facebook Looking up My horse is a little taller than me. Henny Leijen, Netherlands Send inyour pics! Keep your photos coming in to getinvolved@yourhorse.co.uk Sweet Emily and Sugar. Julie Buckley, Northamptonshire Funny face Me, my ex-racehorse Zippy and my hubby Martin all love a little sunshine. Kirsty Jenkins, Gloucestershire Always oneÉ Thought I’d captured a lovely photo…

Grab a pen and write on the back of your hand: “don’t believe everything you think”. Just because you think something, it doesn’t mean it’s true. ■ If you take a step back and observe your thoughts over a 24-hour period, you might start to notice some familiar threads that run through your mindscape. Some of it will be harmless, some supportive and some downright defamatory (and even offensive). ■ Cognitive fusion is the process of believing in the absolute truth of your thoughts. It’s failing to see a thought as a transient experience. Instead, we fuse ourselves with our thoughts and as a consequence find it hard to think clearly and objectively. ■ The reason that mindfulness and meditation practices are so powerful is because they make us aware…

THERE’S NOTHING LOVELIER than a horse sporting a sleek, super-shiny coat, but how do the professionals go about achieving a show-ready gleam? Show producer Nicky Smith takes us behind the scenes at her yard and reveals just what it takes to ensure your horse gleams from head to hoof. Nicky believes there are a number of factors that influence the quality of your horse’s coat, including feeding, fitness, grooming and management. Managing coat changes “Spring is a tricky time, because horses that haven’t been clipped are losing their winter coats, and horses who have been clipped are at that awkward stage between their clips growing out and getting their summer coats through,” says Nicky. “The key is knowing how to deal with both to help get your horse looking ready…

“Bathing takes the natural oils out of the horse’s coat so I always hot cloth afterwards with warm water and a little oil,” explains Nicky. “I never bath on the day of the show. Ideally, bath a few days before, so the coat has a chance to replace some of the natural oils. “Our horses have a couple of baths at the start of the season with Dermolene or an antibacterial wash. This gives the skin and coat a thorough clean after a winter under rugs and leaves a nice shine. I also use a colour shampoo to match the horse’s coat, which helps to deepen its colour.”…

■ Poo-pick fields at least twice a week. ■ Don’t put foals on fields that have been grazed by foals the previous year. ■ Perform regular faecal worm egg counts. ■ Ensure you don’t under-worm by giving the correct dosage based on the foal’s weight. You can do this by using a weigh tape. Under-worming increases the danger of worm resistance. ■ Worm pregnant mares to reduce the risk of Strongyloides. ■ Make sure the stocking density of horses is kept low to avoid overgrazing paddocks. ■ Ensure all horses on the premises are wormed correctly to reduce pasture contamination. ■ Foals should be wormed routinely for Parascaris, but as they get older this can be reduced because they build up a natural resistance. ■ Speak to your vet about…

APPLYING STABLE BANDAGES to the hock or knee can provide the joint with support and help prevent slippage of wound bandages. However, knees and hocks are particularly challenging to bandage due to their shape and high degree of movement, which often causes the bandage to loosen and slip down. When wrapping the knee or hock, it’s very important to avoid pressure on the bony prominences of the joint, particularly the bone at the back of the knee and the point of the hock, as these areas are prone to pressure sores. Avoiding pressure is best achieved by wrapping the bandage around the joint in a figure-of-eight pattern, which ensures that tension from the bandage is applied only across the front of the knee or hock, and not at the back.…

Showjumping Sarah Tubbs is a respected level 4 coach and coach educator for British Showjumping, based at her facility, Marwood Equestrian, in County Durham. Saddle fitting Kay Hastilow is a master saddler and former president of the Society of Master Saddlers. With over 50 years’ experience, Kay regularly lectures around the world. Bonding Debbie Busby is a registered clinical animal behaviourist, secretary of the Equine Behaviour and Training Association and an international speaker and author in her field. End of life Shirley Seed MRCVS graduated from Glasgow Veterinary School in 2007. Based at Oaklands Equine Hospital, she’s taking an Advanced Veterinary Practice certificate in lameness and diagnostics.…

Well padded Q There are so many gel pads, riser pads, half pads etc on the market. What are they all for and how do I know whether I should be using one? Morgan O’Brien, Barnsley Kay says... There are many reasons to use some of the saddle pads now available, from improving the fit of your saddle to being a fashion accessory. Ideally, your saddle should fit correctly without resorting to the use of pads, but sometimes that isn’t possible. For example, a horse who has lost weight through illness, or at the end of a long season, may need a pad of even thickness under each panel — although not along the spine, of course, which should always remain clear of any pressure. Also, some conformational differences may…

The right time Q How do you know when it’s time to let an old horse go? Sheila McBride, East Sussex Shirley says... This is always a difficult question and every situation is different, so it’s a good idea to arrange a visit from your vet to discuss it further if you’re concerned the time is near. As a general rule, I tell people to think of the things their horse or pony enjoys doing — for example, eating, rolling, going out to graze, and so on. If it reaches a point where he can no longer comfortably do these things, it may be that his quality of life is starting to be affected. Weight loss is a common issue with older horses, especially in winter, but as long as…

8 BAGS OF BLUE CHIP DIET BALANCER Blue Chip Lami Light is a diet feed balancer that’s naturally low in starch and sugar. The whole cereal, molasses-free formula provides all the essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients your horse needs to maintain optimum health and wellbeing on a daily basis. It also contains a digestive supplement to promote a healthy digestive environment. Find out more at bluechipfeed.com 4 ABSORBINE HOOF AND LEG CARE BUNDLES This bundle of Absorbine products will keep your horse’s hooves and legs in the best possible condition. Hooflex Natural Liquid maintains the correct moisture balance in the hoof using all-natural ingredients. Hooflex Frog & Sole Care eliminates odours caused by bacteria and fungi. Bigeloil Quilted Poultice Leg Wraps are an easy alternative to clay, while providing the…

MODERN WEYMOUTH Bombers Bits and saddle designer and fitter Carsten Engelke have revolutionised the traditional Weymouth by including a spring-loaded mechanism. The Bombers Relaxed Performance Weymouth cleverly balances and harmonises pressure placed on the poll, curb and mouth. This unique design also reduces pressure on the poll and curb, making your aids more concise. RRP from £246 FOR STOCKISTS bombers.co.za FUN TOPS Honest Riders is a range of ethically sourced clothing made from environmentally friendly organic cotton in Fair Trade-certified factories. Plus, for every garment sold, a donation is given to World Horse Welfare, Retraining of Racehorses or Pablos Horse Sanctuary. This season’s cute sweatshirts, t-shirts and vests feature phrases like ‘Two Hearts’ and ‘Centre Line’. RRP from £46 BUY AT honestriders.co.uk COOL UNDER PRESSURE Made from a combination of…

Annual testing A 7.5 tonne horsebox will need an annual plating. VOSA is the government agency responsible for vehicle safety and environmental standards. VOSA carries out a test every year to make sure your horsebox meets minimum road safety and environmental standards. Cost: £165 A 3.5 tonne horsebox requires an annual test, which is similar to the MOT test on your car. Cost: £75 Road tax This varies depending on the vehicle. A 3.5 tonne horsebox is classed as light goods. Anything over this is HGV tax. This is a question worth asking when you go to view the horsebox. Cost: variable Insurance You must have insurance to drive your horsebox on the road. Look for companies that specialise in horsebox insurance and look for cover that doesn’t just include…

Deputy editor Allison Lowther: Florian Bacher’s demos at Your Horse Live 2018 were fascinating. In this issue he shares ways to help your horse accept the leg aids. I’ve tried them with my own horse and can confirm that they work. Give them a go and you’ll have a more relaxed, supple horse. Page 54 Features editor Stephanie Anthony: If you’ve ever admired other people’s perfect-looking plaits at a competition and wonder how they do it, make sure you read Katie Jerram-Hunnable’s step-by-step guide. She’s the master of a flawless finish. Page 68 Ex-racehorse specialist Victoria Bax: Simple things like standing next to a mounting block, being ridden in circles and feeling leg aids are a huge change for ex-racers. My tips for giving them a solid start are on…

HOUSE OF HAWKS ILLUSTRATION Ben Rhodes is a visual artist living and working on the south-west coast of England. All of his drawings are influenced by his love of animals, birds, insects and the countryside where he lives. Ben sells a range of products online and also takes commissions. houseofhawks.co.uk PERFECT PERSONALISATION Personalise your horse’s stable door with these nameplates from Personalised Penguin. Choose the plate colour, your horse’s colour and markings, and his name to make a perfectly personalised name plate. Metal name plate, RRP £14 notonthehighstreet.com OILCLOTH BOOT BAG This beautiful boot bag is made in the Sophie Allport horses collection oilcloth. It’s the perfect storage solution for your riding boots, keeping your cupboards and car mud-free, and your boots in show-ready condition after cleaning. Horses large boot…

Toni Hayzen is the deputy head teacher at a large primary school in Wiltshire. She lives with her husband and their two young daughters and two dogs. She keeps her gelding Zac and Shetland pony Herbie at a yard she shares with her mum. My job… I’m deputy head of a large primary school in Wiltshire. I entered the profession 10 years ago and went into special needs work before recently moving into this deputy head role. How I got here… I never really had any career plans. I left home at 15 and moved to a racing yard — I always thought I would end up getting my jockey’s licence. I worked two jobs in addition to the racehorses and studying at sixth form and somehow secured good grades.…

Every woman and pregnancy is different. Rebecca Mason managed her four-year-old Warmblood, Leah, easily with her first child, but her second pregnancy was trickier. “I had placenta praevia [low-lying placenta] and was blue-lighted to hospital after jumping on the muck heap and bleeding,” recalls Rebecca. “It was after the birth that I really suffered though. My daughter was very demanding and I couldn’t manage my time like before, so Leah was sold. It was the worst moment of my life. Eventually, there was a happy ending. Eight years later, I managed to buy Leah back and my daughter, now 13, rides her.”…

It’s a hard life This is Solomon, the top rat catcher at our livery yard. He was feral, but is now a lover of laps and cuddles. Total sun worshipper. Gina Bruce, Facebook Cheers Severnvale Rebel wanting a sip of refreshment. Mark Turner, Facebook Once upon a time… Someone else wanted to join story time. Claire Braithwaite, Facebook Let’s get physical Trying a little exercise I saw in @yourhorsemagazine and I really liked it. Super as always. @sophiephryne734, Instagram Black beauty The little one loving the sunshine. Georgie Lindsley, Facebook Join us on Facebook at facebook.com/yourhorse Tweet us on twitter.com/yourhorse Follow us on instagram.com/yourhorse…

“Confidence is a way of being; you don’t experience it, you create it” Don’t run away Retreating, as appealing as it might be, doesn’t work. If courage is a value you hold, and confidence is something you want to cultivate, you may want to join me in a practice I call ‘everyday bravery’. If I’m in a situation where I feel shame triggers arise, I notice the familiar patterns that come up. We all have them and if you start to pay attention, you will notice what yours are. Remember self-worth Next up, remind yourself that your self worth and “good-enough-ness” is something that’s never in question. End of story. What you are feeling in the midst of shame, fear or embarrassment is an experience — a difficult one but…

How to do it: 1 Lead your horse away from the judge in walk, keeping your line as straight as you can. 2 When you’re far enough away from the judge, turn your horse back towards them. 3 Make sure you’re straight before moving into trot. 4 Look up where you’re going — this will help you stay straight. 5 The judge is looking for a good trot rhythm. Don’t rush your horse but, equally, he should trot willingly and not have to be dragged along.…

1 Pick out your horse’s feet, checking for loose shoes, cracks, heat or lumps and bumps. 2 Use a rubber curry comb all over the body in big circular strokes to loosen any dead hair, scurf and dirt. This is particularly useful when your horse is losing his winter coat. 3 Brush out the mane and tail with a mane comb, being careful not to break the hair — a little spray of mane and tail conditioner will help to remove knots. It’s best to do this now, so that you remove any mud before the rest of his body has been brushed. 4 Using a body brush and metal curry comb, start brushing at his head and move along his body to the hind end so that you’re pushing…

“Feed plays a huge part in getting a horse’s coat shiny,” says Nicky. “If they are well in themselves, they’ll look great in their coats. “We feed good rye grass haylage, which we make ourselves, and feed accordingly, being aware of laminitis.” Feed according to your horse’s workload and weight. If you are unsure, speak to an equine nutritionist who will be able to help you work out a suitable feeding plan. Nicky’s feed room contains: ■ Sunflower oil for a shiny coat and soya oil to add condition. ■ Boiled barley for condition and linseed for a good coat shine. ■ Sugar beet for fibre. ■ Garlic to help keep bugs at bay. ■ Seaweed as an all-round supplement and to bring out the colour in the coat. ■…

Enamel overgrowths These are the most common finding on a routine dental examination. They refer to sharp edges normally found on the outer edge of the upper cheek teeth (nearest the cheeks) and on the inner edge of the lower teeth (nearest the tongue). Enamel overgrowths are caused by the side-to-side grinding of food. As horses have evolved and are kept in relatively unnatural conditions to suit our needs, their diet has changed. They are eating less coarse fibre and grazing in much better conditions than ever before and, as such, their teeth wear can’t keep up. Sharp edges can cause problems with mouth pain, causing tongue and cheek ulcers, as well as rubbing on the cheeks when nosebands are in place. Fortunately, overgrowths are generally easily fixed. Rasping (also…

WINTEC’S PHILOSOPHY HAS always been “if we can’t make it better, then we won’t make it”. We are responsible for pioneering many of the modern features in today’s saddles. Wintec Saddles are all about maximising the fun and minimising the worry and effort — they are rideable in all weathers, scratch resistant, tough as nails, easy-care, lightweight and adjustable. It’s no wonder they are the UK’s favourite saddle. Early-1980s Wintec develops the first ever full cloth (synthetic) saddle. Wintec race saddles take the global market by storm, especially in England, where in the following decade jockeys riding in Wintec saddles win eight out of 10 Derbys. 1986 A new era in English saddles. Wintec releases synthetic, colourful riding saddles. You can ride in a blue, red, pink, grey or yellow…

Wrong foot forward Q Every time my mare lands after a fence, she picks up the left lead. I have tried looking where I’m going, shifting my weight in the saddle and so on, but it still happens. She picks up the right lead fine during flatwork. How can I correct this? Emilia Larson, Derby Sarah says... As your mare is picking up the correct lead on the flat without any trouble, it’s less likely that there’s an issue with her balance or suppleness. However, if the problems persist, it may be worth ensuring there is no physical issue. Assuming there isn’t, the first priority is to ensure that both you and your horse are straight and level approaching, over and after the fence. Mirrors can be helpful, but it’s…

Craving cuddles Q My horse isn’t that physically affectionate. While other horses will respond to wither scratching and cuddles, she steps away. Why is this and what can I do to encourage affection? I’m desperate for her to be more cuddly! Sonia Hardwick, Shoreham Debbie says... It can be upsetting when our horses reject our advances. As humans, cuddles are what make us feel safe and loved. However, horses aren’t naturally prepared to cuddle with us, and when they do, it’s usually because they’ve formed a good relationship and positive associations with their owner who has become a “bringer of good things” and a predictable presence in their life. You don’t say how long you’ve owned your mare, but perhaps she steps away due to past experiences when someone has…

After death Q Being such large animals, how are horses’ bodies disposed of and what should owners be aware of to avoid nasty shocks when it comes to this situation? Kat Taylor, Kent Shirley says... The most common method for disposal is collection by a fallen stock company. Your local veterinary practice should be able to provide contact details of the nearest ones. They will usually collect the body using a lorry or trailer fitted with a winch, so vehicle access to the body is required. I usually advise owners to try not to be present as it can be upsetting to watch. It’s also worth being aware that they can’t guarantee collecting the body at short notice or the same day if the death has occurred late on, so…

Most horse owners are going to be looking for a secondhand horsebox, unless money is no object and you can afford to buy new. In either case, set a budget and stick to it. A common mistake many people make is that they go for a box that looks nice. Remember looks aren’t everything — what’s important is that it’s safe to transport you and your horse. If you don’t know much about mechanics, then take along someone who does when you go to view the box. It’s also worth doing an HPI check (hpicheck.com). This will tell you if there’s any outstanding finance on the vehicle and gives you some background history, including any reported accidents, or if it has previously been written off by an insurance company. Lastly,…

If you work with horses and discover you’re pregnant, make sure that you’re treated fairly. “Just like any employer, those in the equine industry are required by law to assess the workplace risk to expectant mothers and alter their working conditions if necessary,” explains Jill Headford, a partner in the equine law department at Tozers LLP. “They should also check their insurance, which may prohibit pregnant employees from riding or doing certain jobs. “If an employer comes to the view that they should not allow someone to carry out their usual role, they must offer them alternative work and, if no suitable work exists, then the employee is entitled to paid suspension from work for the remainder of their pregnancy.” If you’re self-employed, consult a lawyer to ensure you understand…

RIDER ANXIETY I’d stop and see how you get on. Sometimes being spooky is a result of picking up rider anxieties, and the calmer you are, the more relaxed they are. Granted some are sharp anyway, but it’s worth a try. Lisa Marsden STOP AND SEE I’d stop and see how she goes. You can always restart. Tanya Bishop TAKE YOUR TIME Pebbles had a calmer when I first got her. I was worried about taking her off it as I couldn’t even lead her down the lane without her rearing up. Take your time, you’ll know when the time is right. Pebbles is amazing now. Tammy Goldstein NO TO NOISE If it’s sounds that she’s reacting to, try an acoustic ear bonnet — great on a windy day too.…

1 PERMANENT You’ve just been schooling your horse in the arena and it really wasn’t happening for you. To be honest, it felt like you were on different pages — your transitions were all over the place, communication between you was clunky at best and the whole experience left you feeling despondent. “Great,” you tell yourself, dismounting and trudging back to the stables. “I’m really not sure why I even bother.” Sound familiar? You’re not alone. When we get into a negative headspace, one of the first things we do is take a temporary situation, such as a less than average ride, and use it as evidence of how all of our rides are going to be in the future. In other words, we give it a sense of permanence.…

1 Know that confidence is a way of being; you don’t experience it, you create it. 2 Be proactive about investing in thoughts that empower you to be focused and feel positive. 3 Learn to recognise and quickly stop disarming patterns in your mind that pull you down — you’ll become mentally stronger. 4 Stop labelling yourself as a nervous/anxious/fearful/ unconfident rider. 5 Understand that just because you think something, it doesn’t mean it’s true. 6 Learn to be aware of the internal conversations you have with yourself — apply some self-compassion and empathy. 7 Practise everyday bravery — your confidence will grow and you’ll start to feel more in control of your feelings.…

An early challenge you’re likely to face is getting on. Jockeys are legged onto the horse as he’s moving, so standing still next to a mounting block is a major ask. Victoria recommends the following: 1 Have help from a friend on the ground with treats to hand. 2 Don’t ask too much, too soon. Get legged up away from the block, keeping your feet out of the stirrups, and stand for a minute or two with someone holding him. Then dismount. 3 Do this over and over until your horse is comfortable with you being legged up and standing without your helper. 4 Repeat this, getting closer to the mounting block as you do, using treats for a positive experience. 5 When you’re close enough to the block to…

1 Cut a sterile, non-adhesive gauze dressing and some gamgee to size. Cover the wound with the dressing, securing in place with roll gauze. 2 Place the gamgee over the front of the knee and begin by bandaging the leg above the knee joint two or three times. 3 Bring the bandage down across the front of the joint and wrap around the leg below the joint. 4 Bring the bandage back up across the front of the joint and wrap around the leg above the joint again. 5 Continue wrapping in a figure-of-eight pattern around the joint at least two or three times until the bandage is secured. 6 Check that you can slide two fingers under the bandage at the back of the knee to make sure it’s…

The chewing cycle is a complicated process and, as such, any dental disease that may interrupt the cycle is significant and should be addressed as early as possible. Failures in the chewing cycle due to dental pain can cause weight loss, choke, colic and diarrhoea. Signs of dental trouble ■ Quidding (dropping food) ■ Refusing to eat ■ Hamster-like pouching of food in cheeks ■ Facial swellings ■ Discharge and/or smell from the nostrils ■ Halitosis (smelly breath) ■ Weight loss ■ Resistance to the bridle, evading the bit and refusal to go forward ■ Changes in behaviour due to pain — for example, grumpiness, bucking, rearing or napping when ridden ■ Headshaking ■ Colic ■ Choke Remarkably, despite severe dental disease some horses may show none of the above…

GOT A PROBLEM? Need an answer? We’ll know someone who can help Welcome to our Ask The Experts section. In the next nine pages, we solve your horsey dilemmas by taking them to those in the industry who know. This month’s panel (left) answer your burning questions about showjumping, saddle fitting, bonding and end of life situations. Email your question to getinvolved@yourhorse.co.uk Proud sponsors of Ask The Experts, spillers-feeds.com…

If you notice some loss of straightness, which might be causing a preference for one leg leading, try introducing a very wide ‘V’ of poles (at least 6ft apart at the centre of the V), placed a minimum of 10ft after the fence. Keep the fence small when you first introduce this. As your horse’s confidence in the exercise increases (initially she may notice the poles as she lands and slows down), you can narrow the gap a little to further encourage straightness and therefore the correct lead. Ideally, have someone with you to help you adjust the poles.…

Horses aren’t born welcoming being touched by humans and if they have had unpleasant experiences in the past, some of them may benefit from relearning touch acceptance in several short sessions. Look for calm relaxation. Keep each session between three and five minutes long. Aim for two or three sessions a day, with rest breaks in between. The session itself should go like this: ■ Position yourself at your horse’s shoulder. Slowly reach and touch her shoulder with your fingers, then immediately but slowly, withdraw your hand and give her a food treat. ■ Continue until you can touch her shoulder for a few seconds at a time, then progress to using the flat of your hand, eventually stroking her shoulder, before withdrawing your hand. ■ Repeat on the other…

SPILLERS® HAPPY HOOF® is a low calorie, short-chop forage containing all the vitamins and minerals needed for good health. It can be used as a partial or total replacement for hay and helps extend eating time. SPILLERS® HAPPY HOOF® is approved by The Laminitis Trust and has been used successfully in key laminitis studies. SPILLERS® HAPPY HOOF® Molasses Free is a palatable blend of soft fibres, garlic and rapeseed oil and a high level of biotin (5mg per kg) to support healthy hoof growth. It contains no added sugar. The short-chopped form is specifically designed to extend eating time and it can be used as a complete replacement for hay. It is approved by The Laminitis Trust. To apply, email teamspillers@effem.com and tell them which product you would like to try.…

The TheraPlate uses Vortex Wave technology to provide treatment and prevention of a whole host of injuries and chronic conditions. It treats the whole body using motion and energy to increase circulation, enhance performance and aid recovery from injuries. The Vortex Wave motors inside the TheraPlate move in a circular motion, similar to a whirlpool or an aeroplane engine. This motion creates a vortex of energy and initiates involuntary muscle contractions, increasing muscle mass and bone density through maximum circulation with minimal wear and tear on the body. This means it won’t aggravate any existing injuries. You can easily adjust the power level of the motors depending on which programme you are using by moving the dial on the control box.…

WOOF WEAR WAFFLE KNIT BAMBOO RIDING SOCKS RRP£13 (two-pair pack) COLOURS Blue/grey, pink/grey, black FOR STOCKISTS woofwear.com Made with bamboo fibre, these Woof Wear riding socks are naturally anti-bacterial and anti-fungal. The waffle knit technology cleverly accelerates the evaporation of moisture away from your feet to keep them dry. Plus, the thermostatic effect ensures your feet stay warm in winter and cool in summer. LEMIEUX COMPETITION SOCKS RRP: £12.95 (two-pair pack) COLOURS: Slate grey, navy, ice blue BUY AT horsehealth.co.uk Lightweight and ultra-close contact riding socks, made from a seamless, low-profile fabric, which offers compression that enhances the fit of your long boots. The cutting edge design provides maximum comfort and they look great too. KENTUCKY ACHILLES GEL SOCKS RRP £29.99 COLOURS Navy FOR STOCKISTS kentucky-horsewear.com These…

1 Check the floor The floor in the horse area is a good place to start. Most have a floor made of exterior/ marine plywood, with rubber matting on top. More expensive horseboxes have floors made from aluminium planking — this is better, as it’s generally stronger and lighter. When inspecting a wooden floor, lift up the matting and look underneath for signs of rot. It’s also worth looking underneath the horsebox to examine the floor of the vehicle from the ground up. 2 The ramp Lifting the ramp is another thing to consider — the last thing you want is to be struggling with a heavy ramp. Most springs on ramps can be adjusted to make lifting the  ramp easy enough to do on your own. You must also…