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SOUTH AFRICA’S PREMIER EQUESTRIAN MAGAZINE
DIGITAL ISSUE 172A | 2025
Welcome to HQ172A
As equestrian sport evolves, so too does the way we think about our horses, their management, and their future. In this issue, we look at the cutting edge of science and breeding – from the rise of the Knabstrupper in South Africa and the enduring legacy of Usha van’t Roosakker’s damline, to the question of whether DNA really can predict performance.
We also dive into the practical: new research on respiratory health at shows, feeding strategies for young horses, and the technology transforming our tack rooms.
Alongside these, our interview with Candice Hobday explores the logistics of international exports and what it takes to open doors for South African riders competing abroad.
Whether you’re here for the science, the stories, or just to learn more about horses, we hope you enjoy this issue.
Lizzie and
the HQ team xxx
Dr Lizzie Harrison | Editor
Designer | Mauray Wolff
DIGITAL ISSUE 172A | 2025
CONTENTS
TECHNOLOGY IN THE TACK ROOM
What’s worth it, what’s not
A SPOT OF ELEGANCE STUD
Breeding brilliance: The rise of the Knabstrupper in South Africa
OPENING DOORS TO EUROPE
An interview on exports with Candice Hobday
MARE FAMILIES THAT MADE THE SPORT
The legacy of Usha van’t Roosakker
GENETICS AND PERFORMANCE
Are we any closer to linking DNA to ability?
RESPIRATORY HEALTH AT SHOWS
New findings on equine asthma and why management at competitions matters
FEEDING FOR GROWTH
Nutrition mistakes we make with young horses
TRENDING NOW
Turmeric, seaweed, and other add-ons
GROOMING AS DIAGNOSTIC
Why daily hands-on grooming can spot early health and hoof issues
ASK HQ
Your questions answered
HORSE AND TECHNOLOGY
Technology in
the tack room
What’s worth it, what’s not
The equestrian world has entered the digital age, and not just in the show office. From rein tension sensors to girth pressure monitors, heart rate trackers, arena cameras, and motion analysis software, the modern tack room is starting to look more like a laboratory. But for every welfare-driven breakthrough, there’s a flashy gadget that raises questions: Is this improving the horse’s experience, or just giving riders more data to ignore?
This article explores what technology is currently being used in equestrian sport, what’s showing genuine value for horse welfare and performance, and what might be more about marketing than meaningful change.
PRESSURE-MAPPING PADS
These thin, sensor-equipped pads are placed under the saddle to detect areas of excessive pressure. The data is displayed in colourful heat maps that show how pressure shifts in motion – walk, trot, canter, collected vs extended – and with different riders or saddles.
When they work well:
- Revealing uneven weight distribution (e.g. saddle slipping to one side)
- Confirming when a saddle is bridging or pinching
- Helping saddle fitters or vets assess asymmetrical riders or horses
- Tracking change over time (e.g. after rehab or retraining)
Potential pitfalls:
- Requires interpretation by an experienced fitter or vet
- Only provide part of the story as they don’t assess tree shape, shoulder clearance, or spinal alignment
- Horses may react to the pad itself leading to false positives
Verdict: WORTH IT, when used by qualified professionals and paired with a thorough saddle fit assessment.
REIN TENSION METERS
Rein tension sensors track the amount of pressure exerted on each rein, providing data on symmetry, consistency, and magnitude of contact. Some models display this in real-time or sync to video footage.
Promising applications:
- Identifying unconscious asymmetry in the rider’s hands
- Comparing contact between riders or bits
- Teaching riders to find consistent, elastic contact without excessive pressure
Limitations:
- Doesn’t differentiate between soft, following contact and stiff pulling
- Riders may chase ‘even numbers’ at the expense of correct feel
- Can be distracting or misleading without a coaching context
Verdict: WORTH IT for coaching or research but NOT ESSENTIAL for the average rider unless guided by a trained eye.
HEART RATE MONITORS AND BIOMETRIC TRACKERS
Originally popular in endurance and racing, these tools are now being used in dressage, jumping, and rehab settings to track fitness and recovery.
Best uses:
- Monitoring heart rate recovery after work
- Detecting subclinical pain or stress (e.g. unexpected spikes in easy work)
- Measuring baseline fitness during conditioning
- Some models also track respiratory rate, movement patterns, and workload
Verdict: WORTH IT, especially for horses in rehab, young horse training, or competition prep. These monitors can improve welfare by identifying hidden stress or overload.
MOTION ANALYSIS SYSTEMS AND INERTIAL SENSORS
Often used by vets and researchers, these systems use markers or sensors placed on joints to assess symmetry, gait phases, and movement patterns, both in hand and under saddle.
Clinical strengths:
- Detecting subtle lameness or asymmetries
- Tracking progress over time in rehab
- Assessing gait mechanics in young horses or sales prospects
Drawbacks:
- Expensive and time-consuming
- Requires specialist equipment and trained interpretation
- Not a substitute for a full lameness exam
Verdict: WORTH IT for vets and elite riders, but NOT practical for everyday use unless part of a diagnostic or research setting.
BEHAVIOUR MONITORS AND CAMERAS
These include:
- 24/7 stall cameras
- Wearable movement sensors for turnout or stable time
- Systems that track sleep, lying time, and movement patterns
Why they’re useful:
- Catching signs of colic, pain, or sleep deprivation
- Monitoring horses prone to ulcers or stereotypies (cribbing, weaving)
- Ensuring stall-rested horses are coping
- Tracking overnight behaviour in new environments
Verdict: WORTH IT for monitoring welfare, especially in horses with known issues or horses on box rest.
VIRTUAL COACHING AND RIDER APPS
There’s a growing range of apps for:
- GPS ride tracking
- Training logs
- Virtual coaching (via video review or real-time feedback)
- Gamified rider posture apps and balance trainers
Good for:
- Increasing rider accountability
- Tracking training consistency and progress
- Receiving remote input from coaches or vets
Less helpful if:
- Replacing in-person coaching altogether
- Creating data overload without clear goals
Verdict: WORTH IT if used with purpose, not pressure. Data should guide the feel, not override it.
THE RISK OR MORE DATA
One of the biggest concerns with high-tech tack is that it can tempt riders to chase metrics rather than listen to the horse. If rein tension is ‘even’ but the horse is tight in the back, the metric is meaningless. If the saddle passes a pressure test but the horse still swishes his tail or grinds his teeth, that communication still matters.
Technology should support good horsemanship, not replace it.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Technology is only as useful as the insight it brings. If it deepens your understanding of the horse’s comfort, symmetry, or stress response, it’s worth considering. If it replaces feel, adds pressure, or creates confusion, it’s time to reassess.
Don’t buy the tool for the gadget’s sake. Buy it because you want to be a better partner to your horse.
A horse gallops with his lungs, perseveres with his heart, and wins with his character.
Federico Tesio, one of the greatest Thoroughbred breeders of all time, summed up the essence of equine athleticism. Physical ability will take a horse far, but it is heart and temperament, those intangible qualities, that make a true champion.
HORSE AND RIDER
PHOTOGRAPHY: TRACY ROBERTSON
A Spot of Elegance Stud
Breeding brilliance: The rise of the Knabstrupper in South Africa
With their striking coats, intelligent temperaments, and surprising versatility, the Knabstrupper has long turned heads – but in South Africa, they’ve remained a rare sight. That’s changing rapidly thanks to A Spot of Elegance Stud, whose dedication to quality breeding, education, and visibility has helped this unique Danish Warmblood breed gain recognition in the show ring and beyond.
Following the most recent KNN inspection and a series of exceptional results, HQ caught up with Anlé Hartley, founder of A Spot of Elegance, to learn more about their journey – from importing the first Knabstruppers to building a stud that’s now recognised as one of the top outcross breeding programmes in the world.
A SPOT OF ELEGANCE STUD
HQ: What inspired you to choose Knabstruppers and found A Spot of Elegance Stud?
Anlé: If you can believe it, it was an encyclopedia of horses that I was gifted that led me to choose Knabstruppers! I was casually paging away when I spotted (pardon the pun!) what looked like an Appaloosa, but seemed too tall and too densely boned. A quick read revealed that this was, in fact, a Knabstrupper. I delved into some research on the breed, and I found myself increasingly intrigued not only by their beautiful coat colours but also by their temperaments.
My folks and I hopped on a plane shortly after to visit the UK and decided to combine the visit with a trip to a few stud farms there to meet this breed. Love at first sight has never felt more real! Every single one of the 30-odd horses we met on that trip was friendly, inquisitive and had such a beautiful energy about them. It was decided, on that very trip, that we would breed these wonderful horses so that more people could experience their amazing qualities. They had to be shared with South Africa!
ABOUT THE BREED
HQ: For those unfamiliar with the breed, what makes the Knabstrupper unique, beyond the striking spotted coat?
Anlé: For sure, their rarity makes them unique, but beyond that, it has to be their versatility. They can do it all and they can do it well. There are Knabstruppers all over the world who are participating in cross-country, dressage, endurance, gymkhana, showjumping, and even driving! The fact that they also come in all sizes is unique to them – they range from miniature to over 17 hands high.
HQ: How do their temperaments and trainability compare to other Warmbloods or spotted breeds?
Anlé: I have found that they are not stubborn or ‘cold’ and their athletic ability is on par with that of our modern Warmbloods. They're temperaments seem to be a bit more solid and unwavering than some Warmbloods, and they are incredibly intelligent. They seem to grasp what is being asked of them very, very quickly, which makes training fun, easy and very rewarding.
BREED AWARENESS AND NUMBERS
HQ: Since the first Knabstrupper inspection in South Africa featured in HQ Magazine in 2019, how has the breed grown here?
Anlé: Since the last article, we have backed and produced a few of our Knabstruppers bred here at A Spot of Elegance Stud, and they are performing well in the competition arena. I think their unwavering temperament is what makes them such amazing horses for sport. They are so keen to learn and please that no task is too much for them.
Breeding operations have also been carried out in full force since the last KNN inspection! It was a very proud moment for us as we reminisced about the three Knabstruppers (two foals and one stallion) and three Warmblood mares we put forward for grading in 2019, after successfully presenting 13 Knabstruppers and two Warmblood mares this year. We are a very small stud with only one stallion currently in use, so these numbers are huge for us!
Our fellow Knabstrupper breeder and enthusiast, The Majestic Knabstrupper Stud, has also done incredibly well with their breeding programme. They presented 15 Knabstruppers this year!
HQ: How many Knabstruppers are now registered in the country, and how has awareness of the breed changed since your initial imports?
Anlé: To my knowledge, there are roughly 37 registered Knabstruppers in South Africa, and it is a VERY rare breed! I believe that the fact that our Knabstruppers are now visible in the competition arena has had a significant impact. This largely unknown breed had no conclusive evidence to prove it was suitable for sport or that its temperament was as good as its breeders claimed. Now that they are being seen out and about and achieving great results, I am finding that more and more inquiries are coming in about our horses. Their spotty colour also doesn't seem to bother most as much as it did when we started breeding. Perhaps spots are trending; if they're not, we'll make them so!
PERFORMANCE IN THE SPORT
HQ: You mentioned that some of your horses are now active in the competition arena. What disciplines are they competing in, and how have they been received?
Anlé: Currently, most of our horses are competing in dressage. I am not a showjumper myself (too much of a scaredy cat!), but when some of our horses come of age, they will absolutely be taking on the jumping scene.
In terms of their reception, it has been an educational process for both spectators and judges. We've had to explain that they are not Appaloosas, but actually a rare breed of spotted horse, the Danish Warmblood. Other than that, they do turn heads, and I think because they are doing so well, more people are starting to become open to the idea of owning a spotted horse.
HQ: Are there particular riders or horses that are helping to showcase the breed’s talent in South Africa that you would like to tell us about?
Anlé: Our first born, Elegant Dazzling Deisy, who is my absolute world, is my dressage partner. Together, we have progressed from the Walk/Trot level and are now competing successfully at the Medium level. We were all a bit blown away by how quickly she took to the work and how easy she finds it.
Her full sister, Elegant Dizzy Miss Lizzy, was backed earlier this year by our work rider and team member, Lauren Miller, and also found the whole riding process a lot of fun. She is already competing in Walk/Trot classes and scoring well over 70% in these.
We have sold some horses who are competing at lower-level dressage and doing very well.
Perhaps the best thing for a breeder is to hear how much fun the owners and riders are having on them and how safe they feel on them at shows.
THE RECENT BREED INSPECTION
HQ: Can you tell us more about the recent 2024 inspections and gradings in Cape Town? What was the purpose and process?
Anlé: To say the admin involved before this inspection was a mammoth task is an understatement! Each and every Knabstrupper must have had its birth registered, been vet checked and microchipped as a foal, DNA tested to verify parentage, and the breeder/owner must be a paid-up member of the KNN to have their horses presented.
The purpose of the grading is to confirm the suitability of mares, fillies, stallions and colts for future breeding endeavours in terms of continuing the breed standards of the KNN, as well as for stallions to obtain their breeding license. The grading of youngstock intended for sale is also done in an attempt to serve as further proof to potential buyers that they are purchasing a horse of outstanding quality that conforms to the breed standards of the KNN. The value of the horses also increases as a result of their successful grading.
The process of the grading of foals and youngstock is as follows:
- Horses are stood up to have their conformation assessed. A mark out of 10 is given for type, frame and limbs.
- They are then walked and trotted in hand, with foals alongside their dams and youngstock on their own, after which they are turned loose to show loose movement. A mark is awarded for movement, and an overall mark is given where all the marks are taken into consideration.
To grade mares and outcross mares, the process is as follows:
- Mares and outcross mares (those are mares of a permitted breed that may be used to breed Knabstruppers) are graded in the same manner as foals and youngstock, with there being a few more areas they are marked: type, head and neck, shoulders and withers, topline and hindquarters, front limbs, hind limbs.
To assess stallions for their two-year breeding license, the process is as follows:
- Stallions must be presented for a two-year breeding licence before they can participate in their one-day performance test, which is conducted when they are a minimum of four years old. Their grading is the same as that of mares, with the addition of a mark out of 10 for veterinary inspection and a loose jumping phase where they are awarded a mark out of 10 for jumping technique and for jumping potential.
We had two of our mares, Elegant Dazzling Deisy and Elegant Dizzy Miss Lizzy, complete the rigorous Day One Performance Test on the final day of grading. This test is the same as the stallion one-day performance test; however, we opted to exclude the showjumping phase.
This test takes the following form:
- The showjumping phase starts with a loose jumping phase, where the horses are required to jump a lane of three jumps, up to 1m in height. A mark is given for technique, potential and behaviour.
- Thereafter, they are presented under saddle for a dressage display and awarded a mark for walk, trot, canter and behaviour. They are then immediately ridden by a test rider who has never ridden the horses before. They then give the horse a mark for rideability and potential. The guidelines from the KNN indicate that a mark of 9 or 10 for potential suggests that the horse has the potential for international competition.
- Once the dressage phase is complete, they are presented for a gruelling endurance phase: 500m at the walk within five minutes, 2500m at trot within ten minutes and 1000m at canter within two minutes. 0.1 points are deducted for every second over the allowed time, and a score is given for behaviour and willingness. Once complete, riders immediately dismount, and a veterinarian quickly steps in to measure their heart rate and breathing rate. After a 10-minute walk in hand, the vet re-measures the heart rate and breathing rate, and a mark is given for recovery and behaviour during the vet inspection.
- The total mark for the test is out of 1000, and for mares and geldings, a minimum score of 650 is required.
Our girls did a stellar job and scored 870,71 and 825, respectively. We opted to conduct the performance test with them as further proof of their rideability and to provide assurance to anyone who may purchase their future offspring.
The results of the grading of our foals, youngstock and mares were also impressive; all our horses scored First Premium (an overall mark of 8, 9 or 10), and our young stallion was awarded his two-year breeding license. As a small stud, these results mean so very much!
HQ: How did the South African-born horses perform compared to international expectations or breed benchmarks?
Anlé: The three Danish judges complimented us on the top-class mares we selected and told us that we were considered one of the best outcross Knabstrupper breeding programmes worldwide! This was a huge accolade for us! We are very limited with our choice of Knabstrupper mares locally, so we rely heavily on our selection of mares of a permitted breed for outcrossing, so imagine our delight to be told we have selected well.
As far as our locally bred Knabstruppers' grading results, they are absolutely on par with those seen internationally, and the results serve to prove that, in terms of breed standards, we are on track and doing well.
HQ: What are your breeding goals in terms of temperament, movement, and sporthorse aptitude?
Anlé: Though we don't officially have a slogan, it may as well be: "Temperament first, movement and ability are a bonus". We have chosen our mares so well, though, that our horses seem to all have above-average movement, proving again how vital your mares are to a breeding programme.
Their beautiful temperaments enhance their aptitude for sports; they truly try their hearts out and enjoy challenges.
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
HQ: What have been some of the challenges of developing a rare breed in a country where they were relatively unknown originally?
Anlé: Having a very limited choice of Knabstrupper mares locally meant that we had to import in order to breed more purebred Knabstruppers. This obviously added a huge expense to the operation. We are now facing a similar scenario where we need to add new blood to our breeding programme, but we will have to import again in an effort to create a bigger gene pool and bring some new lines into South Africa.
The public and judges mistaking them for Appaloosas has also been quite a challenge. There seemed to be a prejudice that they weren’t athletic, and we also found that judges often judged them as Appaloosa, especially in the showing ring. This, of course, meant they didn’t score well, as the conformation and breed standards of the Appaloosa are vastly different from those of the Knabstrupper.
SUPPORT
HQ: What support structures helped you grow the stud and promote the breed locally? Is there anyone you’d like us to thank on your behalf in the magazine?
Anlé: Without a doubt, the input, guidance and knowledge of Jaco Fourie have been pivotal in the quality of the horses we breed, the growth of our stud, the reputation we have and the quality of the production that goes into our ridden horses.
Jaco has been my coach for many, many years, and the transition to friend, sounding board, and advisor was a seamless one. Our core values as a Stud aligned so beautifully, and what we lacked in knowledge, Jaco made up for. His talent as a remarkable coach ensures that the schooling we provide for our horses is of the highest standard, and we are giving our horses the best chance at a long, healthy, and sound competitive career.
Of course, A Spot of Elegance would not exist were it not for the undying support and enthusiasm from my Mom and Dad, Rólana and Trevor Hartley. From day one, they were as excited as I was about this breed, and they constantly fund ideas to help grow awareness of our Stud. They even get stuck into the dirty work and are both always there when the foals are born, ready to help and prepared to share in that moment of pride when both foal and mare are safe.
Our two freelance work riders, Lauren Miller and Jamie Behrens, have also played a significant role in growing our public awareness. These two ladies are absolute professionals at social media! Any business knows that a social media following is crucial for growth. Not only do they keep the public informed about our activities, but they also breed and care for our horses, treating them with the same care and affection as if they were their own. They are an asset to this stud, and we are so privileged to have them be part of the Elegant Family.
FUTURE GOALS
HQ: What’s next for A Spot of Elegance Stud – in terms of breeding plans, sport partnerships, or promotion?
Anlé: A trip to Denmark to hunt for some new mares to add to our stud is in the cards for the near future, and perhaps we will find another stallion to add to the herd.
As for promotion, we initiated an effort here in the Western Cape three years ago to not only promote our stud but also to grow the sport of dressage. It also allows our riders to perfect their freestyles before showcasing them at SA Champs. We call it The Dancing Dressage Series, and it is a series of three shows that offer freestyle classes, where riders earn points. At the end of the three legs, the overall winner of each respective group wins a cash prize of R8000.
I hope that this series, along with the awareness of our stud and our horses, will grow to become even bigger! More prize money, more prizes, international judges, riders attending from all over the country and ultimately, the most fun had at a show!
HQ: How can people interested in the breed learn more about it?
Anlé: Readers can visit www.knabstrupper.dk for more information on the breed's history, the breed standard, and additional interesting details. For those interested in our Spot of Elegance horses, please follow us on social media to keep up to date with breeding events, births, show results and general news. On Facebook, we’re at A Spot of Elegance Stud, and on Instagram, our handle is @a_spot_of_elegance_stud.
HQ: Finally, what do you wish more people knew about Knabstruppers?
Anlé: That they are just as good as the Warmbloods with the fancy bloodlines, and they DO sometimes have solid coat colours! So if the spots aren’t your thing, no problem. Though spots are in right now, so get yours now to stay trending…
Thanks so much, Anlé! We wish you all the very best and hope to hear of a successful trip to Denmark in the near future.
Grey horses and melanomas
Grey horses are more likely to develop melanomas later in life, with some studies estimating an incidence of up to 80% by age 15. Most melanomas are benign, but some can become problematic if they interfere with vital structures. Regular checks are crucial for effective early management.
Opening doors TO EUROPE
An interview on exports with Candice Hobday
With South African equestrian talent on the rise, more riders are looking beyond our borders to test themselves on the international stage. But competing in Europe is not as simple as booking a flight - it requires careful planning, logistics, and expert knowledge to ensure horses arrive safely, legally, and in peak condition.
To better understand the process, we sat down with Candice Hobday of Hobday Equestrian Enterprises, a leading authority on equine exports. In light of recent shipments that will allow some of our top showjumpers to compete in Europe ahead of Aachen 2026, Candice shared her insights on what it takes to move horses across continents, the challenges involved, and what this means for the future of our sport.
HQ: Please could you start by telling us a bit about Hobday Equestrian Enterprises and how and why the company began?
CH: Hobday Equestrian Enterprises began in 2000 out of a passion for horses and international sport. What started small has grown into South Africa’s largest horse shipping company. From the outset, our focus has been on providing a reliable, professional service, while always putting the horse’s welfare first.
Over the years, we’ve gained hands-on experience navigating the many logistics involved. This would include customs, quarantine, sanitary requirements and related testing, as well as the complexities of air freight. This is all the while ensuring every detail is carefully managed, as there is no margin for error.
Our vision has always been to give riders, breeders, and owners the means to take their passion worldwide and make their dreams possible.
HQ: How many horses (roughly) do you export each year, and how many do you import? What are the main ‘reasons’ for these journeys (sale, competition, relocating, etc) and which disciplines are most heavily represented?
CH: On average, we export around 60 horses to the EU, 80 to Mauritius and import around 150 each year. The reasons vary. Many are sold into the international market like UAE and Hong Kong. Others are to further competition careers in Europe, or owners relocating with their horses. Showjumping and dressage are the most prominent disciplines among sporthorses, but exports are predominantly made up of flat racehorses, endurance, show Arabs, polo ponies and a few pets.
DID YOU KNOW?
Currently, you can only export to the EU or the USA. Unfortunately, due to piroplasmosis restrictions (horses must be negative on IFAT and ELISA, which is rare), exorbitant charter costs, and 60 days post-arrival hard lockdown quarantine, the USA is not economically an option.
HQ: What are the main steps involved in exporting a horse from South Africa to Europe?
Step 1:
The starting point is putting the flight together, and this is almost the hardest part. As horses can only fit in cargo dedicated aircraft, and there are no scheduled (regular) cargo flights into Cape Town, we have to charter an entire aircraft to fly dedicated to Cape Town to uplift these horses to the EU. The EU protocol (the sanitary requirements) only allows for export from the free zone in the Western Cape and not all airlines qualify to land in South Africa or the Cape. These charters cost hundreds of thousands of dollars and are only economical when shared - numbers of 18, 20 and 32 are the economical variations. Our job requires coordinating all the clients to start and depart at the same time. This is often difficult as seasons don’t always coincide, like the racing season in the UAE, polo in the UK and showjumping in the EU, all differ.
Step 2:
Getting the horses into the Western Cape, if they are not already based there, can be a task of note. These horses may require a 16-17 day stopover quarantine, depending on their vaccination status and movement permissions related to AHS infections in their area at the time of departure.
Step 3:
Completing 40 days of residency in the free zone is the next step; partly at the residency stables and finishing off at the quarantine, which has some logistical steps. Facilities in the Free Zone are extremely limited. Residency is completed at Milnerton Racecourse, and although well suited to racehorses, only a sand track is available for the sporthorses, but at least they can stay in work during this stage. All tests, permits, and transport must be perfect for compliance, and it is essential to ensure the horses acclimatise well to the new environment. Micromanaging the horse’s well-being and the client’s anxiety are top priorities.
Within this 40-day period, there is a minimum of 14 days in hard lockdown at Kenilworth Quarantine before departure. During the hard lockdown, the horses are restricted to the indoor barn, which features eight large stables per block. Access is highly controlled, utilising a double-door pressurised system with seals. All relevant testing is done during this time, and the general health of the horses is monitored for any changes in normal vitals.
Step 4:
After the completion of quarantine with negative tests, the horses are certified by the state veterinarian and are then transported in vector-protected trucks, under supervision, to the airport, where they are loaded into specialised stalls that can hold up to three horses each. These stalls are also covered with vector-protected nets. During the flight, the horses are cared for by experienced and qualified flying grooms. All necessary safety equipment, specialised loading ramps, and in-flight supplies are provided by us, with a minimum of one professional handler per stall for loading the stalls onto the aircraft. There is always a veterinarian available, but sedation is very rarely needed.
Step 5:
Post arrival, the horses must go through customs and clearing in Europe, which takes a few hours. Although this paperwork is completed in advance, it must still be validated by the local authorities. The horses are then transported to their final destinations within Europe. In some cases, further residency is required, such as in the UAE (30 days), the USA (60 days), or Australia (180 days), but it can be completed anywhere, as it’s not a quarantine requirement.
HQ: What are the biggest challenges in transporting horses internationally? How do you manage a horse’s individual needs in terms of feeding, etc, during the process?
CH: One of the biggest challenges is ensuring each horse is fully compliant with the export requirements and Health Certificate of the destination country.
Additionally, moving horses from the infected area into the free zone during the AHS Season can be a real challenge. This can be particularly complicated when horses are located in obscure and hard-to-reach areas, especially when timing is crucial.
Another challenge is the hard lockdown period, during which the horses are stable-bound for two weeks before departure.
Next, the fact that each time we are receiving between 18 and 32 horses of different breeds, levels of fitness, behavioural tendencies and owner requirements, in an environment that is highly regulated by both quarantine and health certificate SOPs (standard operating procedures), often limits the flexibility in terms of what can be done to take the best care of the horses, especially when they are used to a very different routine and environment. Having said that, all parties involved do their best to accommodate the differences.
Finally, every horse is an individual, and this presents its own issues. Some travel like seasoned professionals, while others need more reassurance.
In terms of these issues, our team plays a huge role in easing horses into the routine. For example, playful or easily bored horses are given balls or stable toys during lockdown to keep them mentally stimulated. Managing stress and welfare is always the top priority. This may also be addressed medically, on recommendation by the management and the vet, e.g. by starting a course of Omepracote. The management team at the quarantine, along with the supervising private veterinarian, continually monitor and adjusts feed as well as managerial systems (such as ice boots and beamers) to ensure the horses stay in top condition. This is always done within the boundaries of the health requirements.
HQ: Regulations and paperwork for animal transport seem daunting - how does your team manage this side of the process? What is the role of the owner in organising paperwork?
CH: The regulatory side is highly detailed, but that’s exactly where our expertise lies. We manage all veterinary requirements, blood tests, health certificates, flight arrangements, permits, passport validations, and customs clearances. Owners simply need to secure their horse’s booking with us, and we handle the rest, making a fairly complicated process as seamless as possible.
HQ: How do you ensure the horses stay safe and healthy during long-distance travel?
CH: We work exclusively with top-class vets, qualified flying grooms, and airlines equipped for animal transport. Horses are carefully monitored throughout the journey, from hydration to behaviour, to ensure their well-being at all times. During the flight, our experienced flying grooms provide continuous care, quickly recognising and addressing any signs of stress or discomfort. The horses also have constant access to quality forage, with water offered regularly to keep them hydrated and settled.
HQ: How do you support riders and owners through what must be quite a stressful process?
CH: Communication is everything. We keep owners updated at every stage, from the journey down to Cape Town, through quarantine, to loading, take-off and landing. We understand how emotional the process can be, so we focus on providing reassurance and transparency, giving owners confidence that their horses are in the best hands. We treat all horses as important, irrespective of value or purpose. The hardest part is managing expectations, as most clients have no real concept of the regulatory restrictions we have to abide by, including quarantine, health requirements, State Veterinary, SARS, airline, and airport, to name just a few.
HQ: Looking ahead, how do you see the role of equine import/export evolving in South Africa?
CH: We’re seeing steady growth in South African-bred horses being sold internationally, particularly in endurance, racing and polo. South Africa has some incredible breeding bloodlines that are attracting international attention, so the demand for safe, efficient equine transport will only increase. The proverbial wheel has started turning now that people see the opportunity to export. It incentivises them to breed and produce more horses for the international market, which is where the real money is. In turn, for this, you need new genetics and therefore, people import more breeding stock. The local market also benefits from this. The only thing to consider is that the horse commercial life cycle takes some years to produce stock for the market, so although turning, this wheel will take some time to gain real momentum.
HQ: What’s one thing most people don’t realise about flying horses overseas?
CH: Many people are surprised at how calmly most horses handle the experience. They travel in secure stalls with constant care and temperature control. Considering there are not as many starts and stops and turns as with road freight, most horses cope better on a plane than they do on a long road journey.
HQ: Finally, what’s the most rewarding part of your job?
CH: Without question, it’s seeing the horses arrive safely and happily at their new homes or competition yards. It’s extremely satisfying seeing a horse compete with success abroad, or locally, when you know you were an integral part of that particular horse’s journey.
Tendon and ligament conditioning
While muscles strengthen relatively quickly, tendons and ligaments adapt much more slowly. This is why careful, progressive conditioning is essential. Pushing a young horse too fast risks tendon strain, while steady loading over time creates stronger, more resilient structures. Patience in conditioning pays dividends in long-term soundness.
HORSE BREEDING
Mare families THAT MADE THE SPORT
The legacy of Usha van’t Roosakker
In sporthorse breeding, it is often said that stallions make the headlines, but mares make the difference. While the sires may dominate the spotlight, the enduring strength of the sport lies in mare families that produce generation after generation of winners. Among these legendary dynasties, few have had as profound an impact as the line descending from Usha van’t Roosakker, a mare whose daughters and granddaughters have redefined expectations in the global showjumping arena.
WHO WAS USHA VAN'T ROOSAKKER?
Foaled in 2000, Usha van’t Roosakker (by Chin Chin out of Rosana van’t Roosakker by Major de la Cour) was not only a talented jumper in her own right but quickly proved herself far more valuable as a broodmare. She came from the already respected Roosakker family in Belgium, but it was Usha herself who cemented the name into equestrian history.
THE DAUGHTERS THAT BECAME FOUNDATIONS
Usha’s influence is most visible through her remarkable daughters, each of whom has produced international sport horses and influential breeding stallions.
- Cella (by Cento) – Perhaps the most famous of Usha’s progeny, Cella competed at the very top of the sport with Ben Maher, achieving international victories including the silver medal at the 2013 European Championships in Herning. Cella’s scope, carefulness, and consistency made her one of the most admired mares of her generation.
- Hera van’t Roosakker (by Wandor van de Mispelaere) – A daughter whose own foals include George Z (by Kannan), a stallion now standing at Zangersheide, and international performers such as Haddock van’t Roosakker. Hera has firmly extended Usha’s influence into the modern breeding stallion pool.
- Emperio van’t Roosakker (by Darco) – Though not as famous in the sporting arena, Emperio has been an important broodmare, producing the approved stallion Erco van’t Roosakker (by Darco), who himself has sired numerous 1.60m competitors.
- Electra van’t Roosakker (by Carthago) – Known for her exceptional production, Electra has foaled several international jumpers, including Kaprice van’t Roosakker and Horion de Libersart, ensuring that Usha’s qualities of scope and bravery are consistently passed on.
INFLUENCE IN NUMBERS
• Cella – 1.60m international, European silver medallist.
• George Z – Approved stallion, popular in modern sporthorse breeding.
• Erco van’t Roosakker – International jumper and sire of multiple 1.60m horses.
• Over a dozen direct descendants of Usha have reached 1.60m Grand Prix level, with dozens more at 1.40m–1.50m.
THE GLOBAL SPREAD OF THE LINE
From these daughters and granddaughters, the Usha line has spread rapidly through Europe and beyond. Today, it is common to see ‘van’t Roosakker’ in the pedigree of horses competing at 1.50m and 1.60m level across the globe.
The family has consistently produced:
- Horses with scope and power suited to modern technical courses.
- Broodmares that reliably pass on these traits, making the line a ‘breeder’s dream.’
- Stallions that are highly commercial, blending performance genetics with proven production.
This consistency explains why the Usha van’t Roosakker damline is now one of the most sought-after in Europe, with embryos regularly commanding six-figure sums at elite auctions.
WHY THIS DAMLINE MATTERS
The Usha family exemplifies why mare lines are the backbone of the sport:
- Reliability: Nearly every daughter of Usha has gone on to produce high-level athletes.
- Depth: The line breeds ‘broodmares that make broodmares,’ creating a multiplying effect across generations.
- Commercial power: Usha descendants are headline-makers in elite auctions, drawing breeders worldwide.
For breeders in South Africa, studying damlines like Usha’s provides critical insight: while stallion choice often dominates the conversation, it is the mare families that underpin lasting success.
IN CONCLUSION
Usha van’t Roosakker may never have won Olympic medals herself, but through her daughters and their progeny she has left an indelible stamp on the sport. Her family continues to shape modern showjumping, producing not just winners, but whole new generations of breeding stallions and competition mares.
As HQ Magazine continues to explore ‘Mare families that made the sport,’ the story of Usha reminds us that the broodmares are just as vital to equestrian history as the stallions whose names appear in bold.
Saliva production
When chewing forage, horses produce 20–30 litres of saliva per day. This saliva not only lubricates food but also buffers stomach acid, protecting against ulcers. Horses on low-forage, high-concentrate diets produce much less saliva, increasing the risk of digestive upset. For both health and performance, fibre really is the foundation.
Sleep cycles
Horses sleep for short periods throughout the day and need around three hours of REM sleep daily. REM sleep only occurs when lying down, so horses must feel safe enough to rest on the ground. A horse that never lies down may be suffering stress or discomfort and is likely to suffer performance and health consequences of lack of sleep.
Genetics and performance
Are we any closer to linking DNA to ability?
For as long as horses have been bred for sport, breeders and riders have sought to answer the same question: what makes one horse a champion and another simply average? Conformation, training, nutrition, and management all play their roles, but could part of the answer be written in the horse’s DNA? Advances in equine genomics over the past two decades have begun to shed light on this question. Yet the relationship between genetics and performance remains far from straightforward.
THE RISE OF EQUINE GENOMICS
The sequencing of the horse genome in 2007 marked a turning point in equine science. Researchers could now explore the genetic blueprint underlying traits like speed, stamina, muscle development, and even behaviour. This opened the door to studies comparing elite equine athletes with their less accomplished peers, in the hope of identifying genetic ‘markers’ that could predict future performance.
One of the earliest and most publicised findings was the ‘speed gene’, a mutation in the myostatin (MSTN) gene. In Thoroughbreds, MSTN variants were associated with racing distance aptitude: one form favoured sprinting, another middle distances, and a third long endurance races. This discovery excited breeders and investors, suggesting a genetic test might help select foals destined for particular racing careers.
However, MSTN is an outlier in terms of clarity. Most traits in sport horses, like jumping scope, dressage movement, carefulness, temperament, are polygenic, influenced by hundreds (if not thousands) of genes interacting with environment, training, and chance.
JUMPING, DRESSAGE, AND BEYOND: WHAT DO WE KNOW?
In recent years, studies have looked at showjumping and dressage populations in Europe, seeking genomic regions linked to traits like the bascule, canter quality, and scope.
- Showjumping ability: Research has identified some genomic regions potentially associated with power and technique. However, no single ‘jumping gene’ has emerged; instead, performance appears to be the cumulative effect of many small genetic contributions.
- Dressage aptitude: Studies have explored the genetics of gaits, particularly trot symmetry and elasticity. Again, the results show a polygenic influence, with heritability estimates suggesting that genetics plays a role but does not predetermine talent.
- Temperament and behaviour: Some genes linked to dopamine and serotonin pathways may influence reactivity and trainability. These findings are intriguing, but environment, handling, and rider influence remain powerful shapers of behaviour.
Overall, while researchers can identify regions of the genome with potential influence, no marker is strong enough to be predictive on its own.
THE LIMITS OF PREDICTION
Why is predicting performance from DNA so difficult?
- Polygenic traits: Unlike coat colour or height, performance is not dictated by one or two genes. It involves the interplay of many, each contributing a tiny fraction.
- Epigenetics: How genes are expressed can be influenced by the environment. Training, nutrition, stress, and injury all affect gene expression, i.e. how, and to what extent, a gene is ‘expressed’ by the horse.
- Management and training: A horse with excellent genetic potential may never reach it under poor management, while a well-produced horse of modest genetic background may achieve far more than expected.
- Sample sizes: Many equine genomic studies are limited by smaller populations compared to human or cattle research. This makes it more challenging to draw statistically robust conclusions.
DEFINITIONS
PSSM1 - POLYSACCHARIDE STORAGE MYOPATHY (TYPE 1)
This is a muscle disorder caused by abnormal storage of glycogen. Horses with PSSM1 may show signs such as tying up, muscle stiffness, reluctance to move, or poor performance. The condition is managed with diet and exercise, but breeding carriers is discouraged.
SCID - SEVERE COMBINED IMMUNODEFICIENCY
This is an inherited condition seen mainly in Arabians. Affected foals are born without a functioning immune system, making them unable to fight infections. Sadly, affected foals rarely survive past a few months. Carrier testing has helped reduce the prevalence of this condition.
HYPP - HYPERKALEMIC PERIODIC PARALYSIS
This is a genetic muscle disorder linked to a mutation in the Quarter Horse sire Impressive. Affected horses can have episodes of muscle tremors, weakness, collapse, or even sudden death due to high blood potassium. Responsible breeding (avoiding affected stallions/mares) has greatly reduced cases.
WFFS - WARMBLOOD FRAGILE FOAL SYNDROME
This is a connective tissue disorder caused by a collagen gene mutation, most common in Warmblood populations. Foals born with two copies of the gene have extremely fragile skin and connective tissue and are typically non-viable. Carriers appear normal, but two carriers should never be bred together.
THE ROLE OF GENETIC TESTING TODAY
At present, most equine genetic testing offered commercially is limited to:
- Parentage verification (confirming lineage).
- Disease testing (identifying carriers of genetic disorders like PSSM1, SCID, HYPP).
- Coat colour and simple traits.
Performance-related tests (e.g., ‘jumping aptitude’ panels) are marketed, but many scientists urge caution. Without large-scale validation, their predictive value is limited and may risk misleading breeders.
That said, genomic information is increasingly used in breeding value estimation in some studbooks. Just as dairy cattle breeding has successfully integrated genomics to improve milk yield, equine studbooks are beginning to combine pedigree, performance data, and DNA information into more accurate predictions of breeding value. The Warmblood Fragile Foal Syndrome (WFFS) carrier test is an example of a tool that is already reshaping breeding strategies by helping to avoid risky pairings.
THE FUTURE: GENOMICS AS ONE PIECE OF THE PUZZLE
So, are we any closer to linking DNA to ability? The answer is: a little, but not enough to predict the next superstar with a cheek swab.
Where genomics is likely to shine in the near future is in population-level breeding programmes. By combining large datasets of performance records with genetic information, studbooks may refine their selection tools, gradually increasing the proportion of foals with higher potential. At the level of the individual horse, however, training, health, environment, and rider skill will continue to play a decisive role.
CONCLUSION
DNA undeniably influences equine performance, but it is not destiny. Genetics provides the framework, while environment and management determine how far that framework can be developed. Breeders and riders alike should view genetic science as a powerful tool, one that complements, but does not replace, horsemanship, careful selection, and skilled training.
The dream of predicting the next Valegro or Explosion W from a genetic profile alone remains distant. For now, the best we can do is continue to combine science with the art of breeding, trusting the blueprint, the bloodlines and the human eye.
Appaloosa spotlight
The Appaloosa is famed for its distinctive spotted coat and hardy nature. Bred by the Nez Perce tribe of North America, these horses were valued for speed, stamina, and sure-footedness. Today, Appaloosas shine in multiple disciplines, and are known for their marvellous temperaments.
HORSE AND HEALTH
Respiratory health at shows
New findings on equine asthma and why management at competitions matters
For many horses, show environments, rather than being optimal for performance, carry hidden risks to their respiratory health. Increasingly, research is pointing to inflammatory airway disease (IAD) and equine asthma as leading causes of reduced performance in sport horses, often triggered or worsened by the very conditions found at competition venues.
THE ANATOMY
The horse’s respiratory system is uniquely adapted to meet the demands of athletic performance. Unlike humans, horses are obligate nasal breathers, which means they can only breathe through their noses. This is why their nasal passages are exceptionally large and able to expand during intense exercise, maximising the volume of air they can take in.
When a horse breathes in, air travels down a long nasopharynx (throat), where it passes over delicate turbinates. These intricate bony structures clean, warm, and humidify the air before it reaches the lungs.
DID YOU KNOW?
One Canadian study found that horses stabled at shows showed measurable increases in airway inflammation within just a few days, compared to the same horses at home. Even horses without a prior history of respiratory disease can be affected.
From there, the air moves past the larynx into the trachea, a flexible tube supported by C-shaped cartilage rings to keep it open. The lining of the trachea is covered in mucus and tiny hair-like cilia, which help trap dust and debris, moving them back out of the airway.
For clarity, the equine respiratory tract is usually divided into two main sections:
- Upper respiratory tract: the nostrils, nasal passages, pharynx, larynx, and the upper part of the trachea.
- Lower respiratory tract: the lower trachea and the lungs, which are housed within a thin protective sac called the pleural space.
EQUINE RESPIRATION
When a horse inhales, air moves down the trachea, which branches into the right and left bronchi. These divide further into smaller passageways called bronchioles, ending in tiny sacs known as alveoli. It is here, across a delicate membrane only a single cell thick, that the vital exchange of gases takes place: oxygen enters the bloodstream, while carbon dioxide – the main by-product of metabolism – is removed.
The respiratory system’s primary role is therefore twofold: to deliver oxygen to the blood so it can fuel every cell in the body, and to expel carbon dioxide so waste gases do not accumulate.
At rest, a healthy horse breathes around 10–15 times per minute, drawing in roughly four to six litres of air with each breath. But during strenuous work, this system is pushed to its limits. A fit equine athlete may exchange as much as 1800 litres of air per minute, meeting the enormous oxygen demands of high-level performance.
Built-in protective mechanisms help safeguard this finely tuned process. As air passes through the nasal passages, it is warmed and humidified, while larger particles are trapped in mucus and expelled through swallowing or coughing. Smaller particles are dealt with by the immune system before they can reach the lungs.
When infection, inflammation, or environmental challenges overwhelm these defences, however, the result is respiratory disease - a condition that impairs gas exchange, reduces performance, and compromises a horse’s overall wellbeing.
FROM STABLE COUGH TO EQUINE ASTHMA
Respiratory problems in horses were once brushed off as stable coughs or seasonal irritations. Today, vets recognise a spectrum of disease - from mild, often subclinical inflammation (inflammatory airway disease (IAD)) through to the more severe and chronic form, severe equine asthma (previously termed recurrent airway obstruction or ‘heaves’).
Even mild inflammation can cause:
- intermittent cough,
- nasal discharge,
- subtle changes in recovery times,
- or a drop in performance long before overt signs appear.
At high-stakes shows, even these ‘small’ issues can be the difference between a clear round and a refusal.
WHY SHOWS COMPROMMISE RESPIRATORY HEALTH
Recent studies have highlighted the role of environmental triggers common at competitions:
- Dust and particulates: Bedding in temporary stables, nearby arenas, and dry footing release airborne irritants.
- Pathogens in close quarters: Travelling and stabling horses from multiple yards together increases exposure to viruses and bacteria.
- Stress and transport: Long journeys compromise the mucociliary clearance of the airways, making horses more vulnerable to inhaled particles and infections.
- Poor ventilation: Pop-up or temporary stables often have restricted airflow, concentrating dust and ammonia.
TOP TIP
Be careful how you store your hay at shows, particularly when steaming and soaking, as hay left damp for too long can become mouldy. Even small amounts of mould can release spores that irritate the airways, trigger coughing and exacerbate respiratory conditions.
NEW INSIGHTS: OMMEGA-3S, DUST CONTROL, AND EARLY DETECTION
The science of equine asthma management is moving forward:
- Nutritional support: Trials with omega-3 fatty acid supplementation (EPA/DHA) have shown improved clinical scores and airway cell counts in horses with mild asthma when combined with low-dust forage management.
- Dust suppression: Research confirms that soaked or steamed hay and low-dust bedding significantly reduce respirable particles, even in temporary stabling.
- Environmental monitoring: New devices can now measure airborne dust and ammonia at events, helping organisers improve ventilation and footing choices.
- Early diagnosis: Portable endoscopy and non-invasive lung function tests are making it easier to identify horses with airway inflammation before obvious symptoms appear.
PRACTICAL TAKEAWAYS
1. Forage first, but always dust controlled
- Travel with pre-steamed or soaked hay if possible.
- Avoid feeding hay from the ground in dusty stables or arenas.
2. Stable management
- Bed on low-dust options (wood shavings or paper) rather than straw.
- Keep stables well ventilated, with doors and windows open where safe.
3. Travel hygiene
- Keep travel time as smooth as possible. Regular stops to lower heads and clear airways can help reduce post-transport inflammation.
4. Warm-up with care
- Give horses time to clear their lungs before high-intensity work, especially after long journeys.
5. Monitor subtle signs
- A small cough in warm-up or slower recovery can be an early warning sign. Don’t ignore it.
6. Good hygiene practices
- Disinfect buckets and feed tubs daily to reduce the spread of bacteria and viruses while away at a show.
- Avoid sharing equipment such as water hoses, grooming brushes, or bits between horses from different yards.
- Wash your hands or use sanitiser before and after handling horses.
- Keep bedding and muck heaps tidy around stabling areas to minimise ammonia build-up and insect infestations.
7. Vaccinations and preventative measures
- Ensure flu vaccinations are up to date well before travelling, as immunity takes time to build.
- Follow FEI or show regulations on vaccination intervals, but think beyond minimum compliance. Discuss with your veterinarian whether additional boosters or tailored schedules make sense for your competition horse.
- Remember: a single unprotected horse can put an entire yard at risk - vaccination is both a performance safeguard and a welfare responsibility.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE SPORT
As competition schedules intensify, respiratory health is becoming one of the most important welfare and performance considerations in modern equestrian sport. For organisers, it means investing in better stable design and footing choices. For riders, it means becoming proactive managers of the horse’s environment, even when away from home.
Equine asthma may not carry the drama of a tendon injury or colic, but its effects on athletic performance are just as significant. With good management, however, it is one of the most preventable and controllable conditions in the competition horse.
IN SUMMARY
New science confirms what experienced horse owners have long suspected: the show environment challenges the equine respiratory system in unique ways. By combining evidence-based nutrition, dust control, and vigilant management, riders can help their horses breathe easier and perform at their potential in competition.
Feeding for growth
NUTRITION MISTAKES WE MAKE WITH YOUNG HORSES
When raising a young horse, it’s easy to obsess over the size of the foal, the straightness of the legs, the condition of the coat, and, of course, how early they start looking ‘like a horse.’ But appearances can be misleading. The real foundation of a future athlete lies beneath the skin, in how the skeleton, cartilage, tendons, and joints develop during those first few years.
Unfortunately, well-meaning but misguided feeding practices – especially in Warmbloods and Thoroughbreds bred for performance – can set the stage for orthopaedic disease, joint problems, and early soundness issues. In this article, we examine the critical stages of musculoskeletal development, the impact of feeding on growth patterns, and where breeders and owners commonly go wrong.
1. FAST ISN'T BETTER: UNDERSTANDING GROWTH PLATE VULNERABILITY
The long bones of the limbs grow at their ends, in regions called physes, or growth plates. These are zones of cartilage that gradually harden into bone (ossify) and close at different times. Some, like the lower cannon bone, close within a few months of age; others, like the pelvis and vertebrae, don’t fully mature until five to six years of age.
When a young horse grows too fast – whether due to genetics, overfeeding, or sudden dietary shifts – the growth plates are put under mechanical and metabolic stress, increasing the risk of:
- Angular limb deformities
- Osteochondrosis/osteochondritis dissecans
- Epiphysitis (inflammation of the growth plate)
- Joint swelling or pain
Key principle: Slow, steady, well-supported growth is preferable to large gains or early maturity. Bigger is not better – stronger and sounder is.
2. CALORIES VS. NUTRIENTS: THE 'FAT BUT DEFICIENT' FOAL
One of the most common mistakes is overfeeding energy (in the form of calories) while underfeeding essential nutrients. Young horses may appear well-covered and even fat, yet still suffer from subclinical deficiencies that impair skeletal development.
Common pitfalls:
- Feeding too much high-starch concentrate without balancing minerals.
- Relying on pasture quality alone during peak growth phases.
- Assuming a mare’s milk or basic creep feed is enough without analysis.
This imbalance can lead to rapid weight gain without corresponding increases in bone density or joint resilience, tipping the foal into a state where soft tissues and joints are overstressed.
3. THE CRITICAL ROLE OF MINERALS IN BONE DEVELOPMENT
Certain minerals are non-negotiable for healthy growth, and their balance matters as much as their presence.
Calcium and phosphorus:
- The foundation of bone formation.
- Ideal ratio: 1.2–2:1 Calcium : Phosphorus.
- Imbalances (especially excess phosphorus, e.g., from bran or cereal-based diets) are linked to skeletal abnormalities.
Copper and zinc:
- Copper: essential for collagen formation and cartilage maturation.
- Zinc: key in growth, immune function, and hoof/hair integrity.
- Deficiencies are strongly associated with osteochondrosis in foals and young horses.
Magnesium:
- Plays a role in bone strength and supports enzyme systems that regulate growth.
Important: Even if total mineral content appears adequate, interactions between minerals (e.g. excess iron interfering with zinc and copper absorption) can create secondary deficiencies. Many diets – especially in South Africa – are high in iron and low in copper/zinc.
4. FEEDING PHASES OF THE YOUNG HORSE: BIRTH TO THREE YEARS
Birth to six months (nursing foal):
- Mare’s milk supplies much of the energy, protein, and calcium required.
- But milk is low in copper, zinc, and iron, so towards six months of age foals still need access to a balanced creep feed or supplement.
- Foals on poor soil/pasture are especially vulnerable to early deficiencies.
6–12 months (weaning):
- Rapid growth phase.
- Nutrient demand peaks, particularly for protein and trace minerals.
- Weaning is a stressor, so supporting gut health and immune function is vital.
- Avoid sudden increases in starch or new concentrates.
12–24 months:
- Growth slows but still active.
- Skeleton continues to mature, and this is a critical time for osteochondritis/osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) to emerge.
- Excess energy without mineral support is a major risk.
Two to three years (pre-training/early under-saddle):
- Musculoskeletal stress increases if youngsters are lunged and ridden.
- Nutritional needs now include joint support, muscle recovery, and topline development.
- Prioritise quality protein (especially lysine, threonine), balanced minerals, and calories from fibre/fat, not just grain.
STARCH OVERLOAD: WHY 'SHOW CONDITION' CAN BACKFIRE
Young horses are often fed like adults in training, with starch-heavy concentrate to create a filled-out topline and shiny coat. But high-starch meals (especially >1.5–2 g/kg BW per meal) are strongly linked to:
- Hindgut acidosis
- Disrupted gut flora
- Increased risk of osteochrondrosis lesions
- Increased excitability or stress-related behaviours
Instead:
- Base energy on high-quality forage, beet pulp, and oils
- Use low-non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) feeds designed for growth, with added amino acids.
- Choose slow, steady development over bulked-up fast gain.
6. WHEN TO INTERVENE: WARNING SIGNS OF NUTRITION-RELATED GRWOTH PROBLEMS
Watch for:
- Uneven or asymmetrical limb growth.
- Swollen joints (particularly stifle, hock, fetlock).
- Foals or weanlings that are fat but lack muscle.
- Sudden growth spurts during dietary changes.
- Poor hoof quality or growth rings that suggest nutritional stress.
7. TOP MISTAKES TO AVOID
- Feeding for condition instead of development.
- Assuming a chubby foal is a healthy one.
- Using adult performance feeds for growing youngsters.
- Skipping forage – roughage is essential from an early age.
- Neglecting to supplement copper and zinc in iron-rich soils.
- Making big ration changes during growth spurts.
- Failing to involve your vet, nutritionist, and farrier in a shared plan.
8. WHAT DOES A WELL-FED YOUNG HORSE LOOK LIKE?
- Moderate body condition (BCS 5–6/9) – not ‘show fat’.
- Strong, symmetrical limbs and steady topline development.
- Calm behaviour and healthy hoof growth.
- Clean joints and smooth growth plates.
- Energy to move, but not sharp or stressed.
- Growth that is predictable, not sudden.
FEEDING FOR SOUNDNESS, NOT SIZE
Whether you’re raising a Warmblood prospect for dressage or a Thoroughbred destined for sport, your feeding choices today lay the structural foundation for tomorrow’s success or struggle. Nutrition won’t override genetics or fix bad conformation, but it can protect, preserve, and support the growth potential a foal was born with.
Instead of chasing early maturity, feed for long-term durability, symmetry, and soft tissue integrity. Your future vet bills – and your future athlete – will thank you.
Motion detection
Horses see motion much faster than humans. This evolutionary trait helped them survive as prey animals, but can make them seem ‘spooky’ in modern environments. That flicker of light or rustle in the bush we barely notice may appear dramatic through equine eyes!
Spanish Riding School
The Spanish Riding School of Vienna has preserved classical dressage traditions for over 450 years with its white Lipizzaner stallions.
Trending now
Turmeric, seaweed, and other add-ons
Walk through any tack shop or scroll through equestrian social media and you’ll find a tidal wave of trending supplements promising to soothe joints, support the gut, brighten coats, or ‘boost the immune system.’ From golden turmeric to kelp, mushrooms to magnesium, the modern supplement aisle is bursting with natural-sounding solutions.
But how many of these work? Which are safe, and which could actually cause harm? And how can horse owners separate genuine benefit from marketing spin?
In this article, we unpack some of the most popular equine add-ons and what the science (or lack thereof) actually reveals. We’ll also highlight why it’s essential to consult with your vet or nutritionist before adding anything to the bucket.
TURMERIC: THE GOLDEN CURE-ALL?
Turmeric (and its active compound curcumin) is touted as a natural anti-inflammatory, often used for joint issues or general wellness.
The science:
- Curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties in lab settings, but it has low oral bioavailability, meaning very little is absorbed through the gut unless combined with other ingredients (like piperine from black pepper or formulated delivery systems).
- In horses, limited studies show minor improvements in inflammation markers, but the evidence is far from conclusive.
Risks:
- Turmeric may interfere with iron absorption, which could be an issue in young or anaemic horses.
- It can affect blood clotting, so caution is advised pre-surgery.
- May worsen gastric ulcers in sensitive horses due to its bitter, spicy profile.
Verdict: MAYBE WORTH TRYING in some arthritic or older horses, but not a magic bullet, and not ideal for every gut.
SEAWEED/KELP: A NATURAL MINERAL BOOSTER OR IODINE OVERLOAD?
Seaweed, especially kelp, is often marketed as a rich source of trace minerals, especially iodine, zinc, and copper.
The science:
- Kelp does contain iodine, which is essential for thyroid function, but horses only need tiny amounts.
- Many seaweed products have extremely high iodine levels, far exceeding NRC recommendations.
Risks:
- Excess iodine can cause thyroid dysfunction, hair loss, poor coat, and reproductive issues.
- Can also interfere with the balance of other trace minerals (e.g. zinc and copper).
Verdict: NOT WORTH IT unless specifically advised by a nutritionist to correct a known deficiency, as it is too easy to overdose.
MAGNESIUM: THE CALMATIVE?
Magnesium supplements are popular for anxious, spooky, or tense horses, often under the label of ‘calming support.’
The science:
- Magnesium is essential for muscle function and nerve transmission.
- Deficiencies can cause tension and excitability, but true deficiencies are uncommon on a balanced diet.
- Some anecdotal support exists for magnesium as a mild calming agent, but studies are inconsistent.
Risks:
- Oversupplementation can lead to diarrhoea or electrolyte imbalances.
- Magnesium oxide is the most common form but has low bioavailability.
- Often sold with no actual dosage guidance, making it hard to compare products.
Verdict: POSSIBLY WORTH IT in specific cases, but overuse is common and not all horses need it.
MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS: TRENDY OR TRANSFORMATIVE
Blends containing reishi, cordyceps, or lion’s mane are marketed as immune boosters, stress relievers, and even tumour preventatives.
The science:
- Research in humans and lab animals shows anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects, but equine studies are lacking.
- No conclusive equine data on bioavailability, effective dose, or long-term safety.
Risks:
- Expensive and largely unregulated.
- May interact with other medications or supplements.
- Could suppress the immune response if not used appropriately.
Verdict: INSUFFICIENT EVIDENCE, so use with caution and only under professional guidance.
APPLE CIDER VINEGAR: OLD-SCHOOL 'DETOX' OR DIGESTIVE DISRUPTOR?
A favourite of natural horse care forums, apple cider vinegar (ACV) is often claimed to aid digestion, repel flies, and balance pH.
The science:
- No solid evidence of benefit in horses.
- ACV acidifies the stomach which is not ideal for horses already prone to ulcers.
- Fly-repellent effect is anecdotal at best.
Risks:
- May aggravate gastric ulcers or reduce the palatability of feed.
- Can lower potassium levels if overused.
Verdict: NOT WORTH IT, especially in ulcer-prone horses.
SPIRULINA: IMMUNE SUPPORT AND ALLERGY AID?
Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae often promoted for respiratory support, skin health, and general immunity.
The science:
- A small 2012 study showed reduced allergic reactivity in horses with insect bite hypersensitivity (sweet itch).
- Spirulina is high in protein and antioxidants which may help in recovery from skin or allergy issues.
Risks:
- Expensive and unproven in most horses.
- May have a strong taste and be rejected by picky eaters.
Verdict: POTENTIALLY WORTH IT for horses with skin or allergy issues, but not needed for all.
JOINT SUPPLEMENTS WITH GLUCOSAMINE, MSM, CHONDROITIN
Still a staple in most supplement cupboards, joint supplements often contain glucosamine, chondroitin sulphate, MSM, and hyaluronic acid.
The science:
- Mixed evidence, with some horses responding well and others not at all.
- May work best preventatively or in mild osteoarthritis.
- Bioavailability of ingredients varies widely by brand and formulation.
Verdict: WORTH TRYING, especially if your vet supports it, but quality and dosing matter hugely.
BEFORE YOUR SCOOP
Important questions to ask before adding any supplement:
- Does my horse have a specific deficiency or need that this addresses?
- Could this interfere with existing feed, medications, or conditions?
- What is the evidence for its use specifically in horses?
- Is the dose clear, appropriate, and backed by third-party testing?
BOTTOM LINE
Supplements should fill specific gaps, not replace good nutrition, training, or veterinary care. The best ‘add-ons’ are those that:
- Are evidence-informed
- Match the horse’s individual needs
- Are used with clarity and purpose, not because they’re ‘in’
Let us know if there are any supplements you’d like us to review in future issues.
Grooming as diagnostic
Why daily hands-on grooming can spot early health and hoof issues
In a world of thermography scans, digital lameness detectors, and ever-expanding supplements, it’s easy to overlook the most basic tool in equine care: your hands. But experienced horsemen have long known that grooming isn’t just about shine, it’s about surveillance.
Done properly and consistently, daily grooming is a quiet yet powerful way to track your horse’s well-being. Subtle heat, swelling, soreness, asymmetry, changes in behaviour - all of these often present first through touch, not necessarily visible lameness. In this article, we examine how grooming can function as an early warning system, enabling you to identify minor issues before they develop into more significant problems.
HANDS-ON GROOMING
Grooming connects you to your horse, literally. It’s your baseline for normal: how the muscles feel, how the legs look, how your horse reacts to pressure or stretching. Regular hands-on grooming lets you notice:
- Changes in skin temperature or texture
- Localised swelling, puffiness, or fluid shift
- Flinching, stiffness, or guarding in specific areas
- Unusual resistance or irritability when brushing normally tolerated spots
- Hoof changes - cracks, sole bruising, digital pulse changes, frog tenderness
THE HOOFPICK
Never underestimate the value of a hoof pick. Daily cleaning allows you to:
• Spot early thrush before it smells
• Detect bruises, sole sensitivity, or changes in texture
• Check for wedging or debris trapped under shoes
• Feel for digital pulses (a key marker of inflammation)
You’ll also be the first to notice:
• Loose shoes or clinches lifting
• Chipping or cracking related to wet/dry cycles or trim cycles
• Change in frog texture (softer, smellier is a sign of possible bacterial imbalance)
THE POWER OF PALPATION
You don’t need to be a physio to palpate meaningfully. Just add intentional, slow-touch grooming to your routine:
- Use a rubber curry comb or your hands to follow the muscle chains of the neck, back, and quarters
- Gently run fingers down tendons and cannon bones, comparing legs
- Feel the jaw, poll, ears, and under the tail
- Notice how your horse stands: Evenly? Shifting weight? Guarding a leg?
BEHAVIOUR
Sometimes, it’s not what you feel - it’s what the horse does.
Watch for:
- A horse that suddenly resents grooming in an area they previously enjoyed
- A usually calm horse that becomes restless or fidgety
- Flinching, tail swishing, head tossing, or teeth grinding during routine grooming
- ‘Girthiness’ or tightening of the abdomen when you groom the chest or belly
These may be signs of pain, discomfort, ulcers, or saddle/girth fit problems.
DID YOU KNOW?
Beyond diagnostics, grooming:
• Stimulates circulation, helping muscle recovery
• Encourages parasympathetic tone (the ‘rest and digest’ state)
• Builds trust and mental connection
• Can relieve stress and reduce stereotypies in stabled horses
BUILD A BASELINE: YOUR HORSE'S 'NORMAL'
To catch changes, you have to know what’s normal for your horse:
- Is one hock usually a little fuller after work?
- Does the left shoulder carry more muscle than the right?
- Are the digital pulses normally soft?
- Do they always flinch slightly when groomed over the sternum - or is that new?
Keeping mental or written notes can help, especially in busy yards or when sharing horse care.
GROOM LIKE A VET WITH A BRUSH
You don’t need fancy tools to be an effective early-warning system. Just look, feel, and notice every single day. Consistent, thoughtful grooming can help you catch subtle injuries, hoof issues, or health concerns before they escalate.
In a world full of diagnostic tools, your best one might still be the rubber curry comb and a quiet moment!
YOUR EQUESTRIAN QUESTIONS ANSWERED
I’ve been told my horse has a curb on his hock. What does this mean?
A curb on a horse’s hock is a form of soft tissue swelling or thickening that appears just below the point of the hock, at the back of the leg.
It’s usually caused by strain or injury to the plantar tarsal ligament (sometimes called the long plantar ligament) or to other soft tissues in that region, and the result is a distinct bulge or enlargement on the back of the hock, most noticeable when viewed from the side.
Curbs are generally the result of excessive strain from sudden exertion, slipping, or kicking out; poor conformation, especially sickle hocks (overly angled hocks), which put more pressure on the ligament; or repeated hard work in young, unconditioned horses.
A curb appears as a visible thickening or swelling at the back of the hock, and in some cases, when the injury is fresh, the horse may have pain in the region or be lame. Over time, many curbs become cosmetic blemishes with no impact on soundness.
Cold therapy, rest, and anti-inflammatories can help in the acute phase; however, in most horses, once the inflammation subsides, a curb is more of a cosmetic issue than a performance-limiting condition. Long-term, horses with curbs often return to full work, though the swelling may remain visible.
When is the best age to breed a mare?
Most vets and breeding specialists recommend breeding a mare between four and twelve years of age.
Why not younger?
- Physically, a mare reaches maturity around four years old. Breeding younger than this (two to three years) is possible but not advisable: her body is still developing, and pregnancy can place extra strain on joints, bones, and growth.
- Behaviourally, older fillies may also be easier to handle through the breeding process.
Why not older?
- Fertility begins to decline after about twelve to fourteen years, especially in maiden mares (those that have never foaled).
- Uterine changes, reduced ovarian activity, and age-related conditions can lower conception rates and increase the risk of early pregnancy loss.
- By the time a mare reaches her late teens, breeding success rates fall significantly, and foaling can carry higher risks.
The sweet spot: Six to ten years
- By this age, mares are physically mature, mentally settled, and at peak fertility.
- They often recover well postpartum and can produce multiple foals over their lifetime with fewer complications.
Exceptions
- Proven broodmares can continue producing healthy foals into their late teens or even early twenties if managed carefully.
- Good nutrition, veterinary care, and reproductive management can extend a mare’s breeding career beyond the typical range.
In summary
The optimal window to breed a mare is usually between four and twelve years, with six to ten years considered ideal. Too young, and the mare’s still growing; too old, and fertility declines and risks increase.
Where are the most common sites for melanomas in grey horses?
In grey horses, melanomas are very common - some studies suggest up to 80% of greys over 15 years old will develop at least one. While many are benign and slow-growing, their location can affect comfort and management.
Most common sites for melanomas
1. Under the tail and around the dock - the single most common site.
2. Around the anus, perineum, and genital area - particularly sheath in geldings/stallions, vulva in mares.
3. Lips and commissures of the mouth - can cause problems with bitting.
4. Around the eyes and eyelids - may interfere with vision or tear drainage.
5. Parotid region (throat latch/jaw area) - can obstruct salivary ducts or airway if they enlarge.
6. Under the mane/crest and around the head - less common, but still seen.
7. Occasionally internal - liver, spleen, or guttural pouches, though these are harder to detect without imaging.
Key takeaway
The majority of grey horse melanomas appear under the tail, around the anus, and in the sheath/vulva region, but growths can also develop around the mouth, eyes, and throat latch. Many are slow-growing, but because of their locations, they can interfere with vital functions if left unchecked.
My horse seems slow to shed his winter coat this year. Why might that be?
A horse shedding more slowly than usual can have a few different causes - some completely benign, others worth checking out:
Seasons and environment
- Shedding is driven by daylight hours (photoperiod), not temperature, so even if it is warm your horse may not shed immediately.
- If your horse has been stabled with lights on late into the evening, or rugged heavily, his body may be getting ‘mixed signals.’
- Some horses are naturally later shedders.
Age
- Older horses often shed more slowly.
- Senior horses, especially those over 18–20 years, may develop a noticeably long or patchy coat change.
Cushing’s/PPID (Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction)
- This is a very common cause of delayed or incomplete shedding in older horses.
- Horses may keep a long, curly winter coat well into summer.
- Other signs include muscle loss along the topline, increased thirst/urination, lethargy, recurrent laminitis, or infections.
- If your horse is middle-aged or older, it is worth discussing a blood test for PPID with your vet.
Nutrition and health
Poor coat change can also be linked to:
- Low protein or certain vitamins/minerals (esp. copper, zinc, selenium).
- Illness or stress (e.g., after colic, infection, or weight loss).
- Parasites - heavy burdens can affect coat quality.
What to do
- Consider age and history: If your horse is older, consider a PPID test.
- Evaluate diet: Ensure balanced vitamins/minerals and enough high-quality protein.
- Review environment: Natural daylight exposure helps regulate shedding.
- Vet check: If shedding seems unusually delayed, or the coat looks curly, thick, or abnormal, book a veterinary exam.
Bottom line
A slow shed can sometimes just be an individual quirk or environmental influence, but in older horses, it’s often an early red flag for PPID. A simple blood test can provide peace of mind.