SOUTH AFRICA’S PREMIER EQUESTRIAN MAGAZINE

DIGITAL ISSUE 173C | 2026

Welcome to Issue 173C!

As we settle into 2026, there’s something quite special about this edition. It feels like a celebration of both heritage and evolution – two forces that have always shaped our equestrian world in the most beautiful ways.

We’re thrilled to introduce you to Stellenbosch District Riding Club’s new era. After more than 70 years of community, competition, and countless memories, the club is stepping confidently forward with fresh leadership and ambitious plans. Their story reminds us that our equestrian spaces are built on foundations laid by generations before us, and it’s our privilege to honour that legacy while looking ahead.

This issue also brings you into conversation with photographer Gabrielle Kannemeyer, whose lens captures the rich, diverse horse cultures that exist across South Africa – cultures that deserve to be seen, documented, and celebrated. Her work sheds light on communities and traditions that too often go unnoticed.

On the more practical side, we’re diving deep into flatwork fundamentals with our comprehensive guide to building better transitions, exploring how awareness and biomechanics are genuinely reshaping rider education, and tackling those summer challenges we all face – from managing heat stress to dealing with seasonal skin issues and understanding when (and how) to supplement electrolytes.

And for those who love a good breeding story, our Mare Families series continues with Carthina Z, a foundation mare whose quiet influence has shaped modern showjumping in ways that ripple through pedigrees around the world.

Whether you’re here for the technique, the inspiration, or simply the horses, thank you for being part of HQ!

Happy reading,

Lizzie and
the HQ team xxx

Dr Lizzie Harrison | Editor

Designer | Mauray Wolff

DIGITAL ISSUE 173C | 2026

Stellenbosch District Riding Club

A new era

Flatwork foundations

Building better transitions

Setting the tone in the warm-up arena

The real purpose of the warm-up

Gabrielle Kannemeyer

HQ meets the photographer document equestrian culture across South Africa

Changing the language of riding

How awareness, biomechanics, and horsemanship are reshaping rider education

Shade and shelter

Keeping horses cool in hot weather

Electrolytes explained

When and how to supplement

Summer skin issues

Prevention and treatment of the most common seasonal conditions

Mare families that made the sport

Carthina Z – The mare who built a dynasty

From idea to reality

Is your horse business idea actually viable?

AskHQ

Your questions answered

A new era for

Stellenbosch District Riding Club

photography: Caroline Hartley Photography
@caroline.hartley105

For more than 70 years, Stellenbosch District Riding Club (SDRC) has stood as a proud cornerstone of the Western Cape equestrian community. Generations of riders, grooms, officials, families, and friends have passed through our gates – each leaving their mark and helping to shape the club we cherish today.

photography: Caroline Hartley Photography
@caroline.hartley105

As we close the chapter on 2025, SDRC steps confidently into a new era. A newly appointed committee has taken up the reins, led by chairperson Karen Dormehl and vice chairperson Taco Oudewortel. This committee represents a thoughtful blend of long–standing, deeply experienced members and fresh new faces — all united by a shared goal: to bring SDRC back to the forefront of the Western Cape equestrian show circuit.

photography: Caroline Hartley Photography
@caroline.hartley105

What has always set SDRC apart, however, is not only what happens in the arena. It’s the laughter after the last round, the familiar faces staying for just one more drink, and the inevitable dance floor that forms when the sun goes down. Our club is built on community – on friendships forged over decades, a deep love for our sport, and a collective spirit that keeps us coming back show after show.

photography: Caroline Hartley Photography
@caroline.hartley105

Looking ahead, the new committee has ambitious plans. SDRC is setting its sights on hosting bigger, bolder events, and preparations are already well underway. Our grass arena is looking exceptional and will soon welcome riders to our Outdoor Grand Prix this March – a moment we are immensely proud of.

photography: Caroline Hartley Photography
@caroline.hartley105

Beyond competition, SDRC is equally committed to making a meaningful difference. Through a partnership with EquiSynergy, the club has established a riding school that serves both private clients and vital community initiatives. Previously disadvantaged and abused children from local communities are given the opportunity to learn equestrian skills and experience the profound healing power of horses – a reminder of the impact this sport can have far beyond the arena.

photography: Fiona Browne Photography
@fionabrownephotography

As we move forward, we do so with deep respect for those who have served SDRC before us. Our intention is not to replace their legacy, but to honour it, by building on the foundations they laid and setting the club up stronger than ever for generations to come.

photography: Fiona Browne Photography
@fionabrownephotography

Our promise to members, spectators, and the wider community is simple: we will continue to reciprocate your support by creating a show ground you are proud to be part of – one that reflects the heart, history, and future of Stellenbosch District Riding Club.

Flatwork foundations

Building better transitions

Smooth, balanced transitions are the hallmark of a well–trained horse and rider partnership. Whether you're preparing for your first dressage test or refining your technique for advanced competition, mastering the art of transitioning between gaits is fundamental to good riding. Yet for many riders (us included!), transitions remain one of the most challenging aspects of flatwork, and too often they are rushed, unbalanced, or lacking in fluency.

The good news? With proper understanding and plenty of practice, any rider can develop smooth, responsive transitions that enhance their horse's way of going and improve scores in the dressage arena. This guide breaks down the essential elements of quality transitions and provides a step–by–step approach for riders at every level.

UNDERSTANDING WHAT MAKES A GOOD TRANSITION
Before diving into technique, it's essential to understand what judges and trainers are looking for in a quality transition. A good transition should be:

Prompt – The horse responds immediately to the aid without resistance or delay.
Balanced – The horse maintains rhythm and steadiness without falling onto the forehand or hollowing through the back.
Fluid – The change of gait flows smoothly rather than being abrupt or jerky.
Straight – The horse's body remains aligned without swinging the quarters or drifting sideways.
Through – The horse stays connected from back to front, maintaining the quality of contact.

THE FOUNDATION
The quality of your transition is largely determined by what happens before the transition itself. A horse that is balanced, attentive, and working through from behind will produce far better transitions than one that is strung out, distracted, or leaning on the bit.

ESTABLISH QUALITY GAITS FIRST
Before asking for any transition, ensure your current gait is the best it can be. Your walk should be marching with a clear four–beat rhythm, your trot should be active with regular diagonal steps, and your canter should have a clear three–beat rhythm with a jump. If your current gait is sluggish, rushed, or unbalanced, your transition will reflect and often amplify these issues.

Take time in your warm–up to establish quality in each gait before attempting transitions. Use half–halts to rebalance and engage your horse, ensuring he is listening to your seat and leg aids. A common mistake is drilling transitions before the basic gaits are established; this often leads to tension.

THE HALF-HALT IS YOUR SECRET WEAPON
The half–halt is perhaps the most important aid in achieving smooth transitions. Think of it as a gentle rebalancing aid that prepares your horse for what's coming next. A proper half–halt momentarily engages the horse's hindquarters, lifts the forehand slightly, and creates a brief moment of increased collection and attention.

A transition is only as good as the half–halt that precedes it.

To execute a half–halt, close your fingers momentarily on the reins while simultaneously engaging your core and pushing your seat bones forward. Your leg maintains the impulsion. The effect should be subtle; you're not pulling back or stopping, merely asking the horse to rebalance and prepare for what is coming.

Practice half–halts within the gait before attempting transitions. Can you slow the tempo slightly without breaking gait? Can you create more activity in the hind legs without speeding up? These exercises develop the sensitivity and timing needed for quality transitions.

WALK TO TROT TRANSITIONS
The walk–to–trot transition is often the first transition riders learn, but that doesn't make it simple. A good walk–trot transition sets the tone for your entire ride.

THE PROCESS
Start with an active, marching walk. Your horse should be moving forward into a steady contact with a regular four–beat rhythm. Give a half–halt to prepare your horse, then close both legs simultaneously at the girth to ask for trot. Your hands should remain steady and elastic, allowing the horse to step forward into the trot without restriction.

The moment your horse steps into trot, soften your leg aid but maintain the activity with your seat. Your hands should follow the motion, neither pulling back nor throwing away the contact. Many riders make the mistake of over–riding the first few strides of trot, but it’s better to trust that your horse will maintain the gait once established.

COMMON PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS
Problem: Your horse breaks into a rushed, running trot.
Solution: Your walk likely lacks sufficient energy, causing your horse to anticipate and rush. Improve the quality of your walk first, ensuring it's forward and active. Use half–halts in the early strides of trot to establish rhythm rather than speed.

Problem: Your horse takes several shuffling steps before establishing the trot.
Solution: Your aid may be unclear. Ensure your leg aid is distinct and simultaneous on both sides. If your horse still doesn't respond promptly, back up your aid with a gentle tap from your whip, then immediately soften when he responds correctly. Consistency teaches promptness.

Problem: Your horse throws his head up or hollows his back.
Solution: Check that your hands aren't restricting the forward movement. Your horse should feel he can step freely into the new gait. Also, ensure you're not gripping with your seat or thighs, which can create tension in your horse's back. Practice transitions on a circle where the bend naturally encourages softness.

TROT TO WALK TRANSITIONS
Downward transitions are often more challenging than upward ones because they require greater engagement of the hindquarters and more sophisticated use of aids. A correct trot–to–walk transition should feel like the horse is lowering themselves into the walk, not collapsing onto the forehand.

THE PROCESS
Begin with an active, rhythmic trot with your horse in a steady contact. Give a clear half–halt to engage the hindquarters and prepare your horse. Then, deepen your seat (think of sitting taller and pushing your seat bones down), close your fingers on the reins, and reduce the following motion of your seat to indicate you want less forward movement.

Crucially, your legs stay on. This seems counterintuitive, but it is necessary because your legs maintain the engagement of the hindquarters and prevent the horse from simply falling onto the forehand. The moment your horse steps into walk, soften all your aids and allow the walk to flow forward.

COMMON PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS
Problem: Your horse falls heavily onto the forehand or takes multiple shuffling steps.
Solution: You're likely pulling back with your hands without adequate engagement from your seat and leg. Remember: downward transitions come primarily from your seat, supported by your legs to maintain engagement. Practice half–halts within the trot to teach your horse to rebalance rather than slow down.

Problem: The walk is sluggish and lacks energy after the transition.
Solution: You may be over–restraining during the transition. Soften your aids more quickly once the walk is established, and actively ride the walk forward. Consider also that your trot might lack sufficient impulsion to carry through to an active walk. In this instance, improve the quality of your trot first.

Problem: Your horse jigs or won't settle into the walk.
Solution: This often indicates tension or anticipation. Vary where you ask for transitions and intersperse them with lots of work within the gait so your horse doesn't anticipate. It is also important to ensure you're breathing and staying relaxed yourself, as tension in your body transfers directly to your horse. On a circle, use the bend to encourage relaxation and acceptance of the transition.

Position first, ask second.
A correctly positioned horse will canter with minimal aid.

TROT TO CANTER TRANSITIONS
The trot–to–canter transition is where many riders struggle, particularly in getting the correct lead. Understanding the biomechanics helps: the canter begins with the outside hind leg, so your aids must clearly indicate which lead you want.

THE PROCESS
Establish a balanced, rhythmic trot with slight flexion to the inside. Position your horse so he is bent around your inside leg; this makes it biomechanically easier for him to strike off on the correct lead. Give a half–halt to engage the hindquarters.

For canter right: your right (inside) leg stays at the girth, asking for forward motion and bend. Your left (outside) leg moves slightly behind the girth to encourage the outside hind to begin the canter sequence. Your inside hand maintains the flexion while your outside hand controls the speed and prevents the shoulder from falling out.

The key is subtlety; you're creating a situation where cantering is easier than trotting, not forcing your horse into canter. Your inside leg creates energy and bend, while your outside leg positions the hindquarters and asks for the strike–off. Many riders over–use their outside leg, which actually blocks the horse rather than aids them.

COMMON PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS
Problem: Your horse picks up wrong lead consistently.
Solution: Check your position – are you collapsing through your inside hip or leaning? This shifts your weight to the outside, encouraging the wrong lead. Also, verify you're asking on a circle or with adequate bend; on a straight line, horses often struggle to differentiate between left and right aids. Your outside leg may not be clear enough in its positioning and aid.

Problem: Your horse rushes into canter or takes several fast trot steps first.
Solution: Your trot is likely too fast or unbalanced before the transition. Establish a more collected, balanced trot with good engagement before asking. Practice the aids for the transition without actually cantering – position your legs correctly, apply the aids gently, but use your seat to maintain the trot. This teaches your horse to wait for the full aid rather than anticipating.

Problem: Your horse becomes tense or resistant before canter transitions.
Solution: You may be drilling the canter transitions too much or tensing up yourself in anticipation. Vary your work more – do transitions in different locations, after different exercises. Practice walk–to–canter transitions, which are often more relaxed. Check your breathing and shoulder tension; horses sense and mirror our anxiety about particular movements.

CANTER TO TROT TRANSITIONS
The canter–to–trot transition is a true test of collection and balance. Done correctly, the horse should 'sit' into the trot rather than fall forward. This transition requires strong engagement of the hindquarters and careful coordination of aids.

THE PROCESS
Begin with a balanced canter – not too fast, not strung out. Give several half–halts within the canter to ensure your horse is attentive and working from behind. When ready for the transition, sit deeper (imagine pushing your seat bones down and forward), close your fingers on the reins, and stop following the canter motion with your seat.

Your legs remain active, maintaining the energy so your horse steps into an active trot rather than a sluggish one. Think of 'catching' your horse in trot as they come down from canter; you're not pulling them down but rather creating a situation where trot becomes the easier option. The moment the trot is established, soften your aids and ride the trot forward.

COMMON PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS
Problem: Your horse falls onto the forehand with several running trot steps.
Solution: This is the most common issue and usually indicates insufficient preparation. Use more and clearer half–halts before the transition to engage the hindquarters. Alternatively, your canter may be too fast or unbalanced to begin with; establish better quality canter before attempting the transition. Another good option is to practice canter–to–walk transitions occasionally to develop more 'sit' in your downward transitions.

Problem: Trot after the transition is stiff and lacks rhythm.
Solution: You're likely holding too much with your hands during and after the transition. While you need connection through the transition, you must soften and allow forward movement the moment trot is established. Your legs should be more active, creating impulsion so the horse can work through their body into the contact.

Problem: Your horse breaks to walk instead of trot.
Solution: Your leg has likely gone completely off, leaving your horse with no forward instruction. Remember that downward transitions are not about 'stopping' the forward momentum but rather redirecting it. Keep your legs on throughout the transition. If your horse still breaks to walk, immediately push forward into trot again to reinforce that trot is what you wanted.

WALK TO CANTER AND CANTER TO WALK
These transitions are more advanced and require greater collection and engagement. They're worth practising, however, as they significantly improve your horse's responsiveness and your own timing of aids.

The walk–to–canter transition uses the same leg aids as trot–to–canter but requires a more energetic, collected walk beforehand. The key is to maintain the quality of the walk right up to the point of transition. Many riders slow the walk excessively, which makes it nearly impossible for the horse to strike off cleanly.

For canter–to–walk, the principles are similar to canter–to–trot but require even greater engagement of the hindquarters. Use several preparatory half–halts, sit deeply, and maintain active legs throughout. The horse should 'lower' themselves into a walk in a controlled manner, not collapse.

Don't be discouraged if these transitions take longer to master; they're genuinely more difficult.

PROGRESSIVE EXERCISES FOR IMPROVEMENT
Mastering transitions isn't about drilling the same transition repeatedly until it improves. Instead, use progressive exercises that develop the underlying strength, balance, and communication needed for quality transitions.

EXERCISE 1
TRANSITIONS WITHIN THE GAIT
Before perfecting transitions between gaits, practice lengthening and shortening within each gait. In trot, alternate between working trot and medium trot. In canter, practice collected canter to medium canter. These exercises develop your horse's adjustability and responsiveness to your half–halts, which directly translates to better transitions.

Focus on maintaining rhythm throughout; the tempo shouldn't change dramatically, only the length of stride. This teaches both you and your horse that transitions are about engagement and balance, not just speed changes.

EXERCISE 2
COUNTING TO THE TRANSITION
Choose a specific number of strides before each transition and count them out loud. For example: trot down the long side, count ten trot strides, then transition to walk. This accomplishes several things: it requires you to plan ahead (improving preparation), it develops timing, and it prevents drilling transitions in the same spot repeatedly.

Gradually reduce the number of strides in the intermediate gait. Start with ten strides of trot between walk and canter, then try eight, then six, then four. This progressive approach develops promptness and engagement without rushing.

EXERCISE 3
TRANSITION PATTERNS ON CIRCLES
Work on a 20–metre circle and practice transitions at specific points – perhaps at each quarter marker. The circle provides a natural bend, which helps with balance and makes it easier for your horse to stay soft through transitions. Start with progressive transitions (walk–trot–canter–trot–walk) and gradually incorporate direct transitions (walk–canter, canter–walk).

This exercise is particularly valuable because the consistent pattern allows you to prepare and plan, while the circle provides a supportive framework for balance.

EXERCISE 4
THE SQUARE
Ride a square (four straight lines connected by 90–degree corners) with a different gait on each side. For example: walk the first side, trot the second, canter the third, trot the fourth, then repeat. This creates multiple transitions in quick succession, requiring precise aids and good balance through the corners.

Vary which gait you use on which side to prevent anticipation. The square exercise is demanding, so keep sessions short and end before your horse becomes tired.

FINAL THOUGHTS: QUALITY OVER QUANTITY
The temptation when working on transitions is to do lots of them, assuming that repetition alone will bring improvement. However, quality matters far more than quantity. It's better to do five excellent transitions in a schooling session than twenty mediocre ones.

Each transition is an opportunity to refine communication with your horse. Pay attention to what works and what doesn't. If a transition goes poorly, don't immediately repeat it – this often leads to tension and anticipation. Instead, return to work within the gait, re–establish quality and balance, then try again.

Remember too that transitions are never 'finished' – even Grand Prix riders continually work to refine their transitions – so embrace transitions as an ongoing conversation with your horse rather than a problem to be solved, and you'll find they become not just better, but genuinely enjoyable.

TEXT: Lara Ellwood of Insight Equine

Setting the
tone in the
warm-up arena

The real purpose of the warm-up

There’s something about the warm-up arena at a show that seems to buzz with invisible tension. It’s meant to be a space to prepare, to ease our horses and ourselves into rhythm and readiness, but more often than not, it becomes a pressure cooker. We’ve created it to be a place of stress, anxiety, and feelings of being overwhelmed.

THE PROBLEM
Somewhere along the way, the warm-up arena stopped being about warming up and started feeling like a performance of its own. We put enormous expectations on ourselves to have the ‘best’ round in the warm-up, to get everything perfect, to prove that we belong there.

It’s easy to feel like all eyes are on you, every stride, every pole, every misstep magnified. But here’s the truth: the warm-up arena is not a stage. It’s a preparation space. It’s there to help our muscles loosen, our horses’ bodies and minds wake up, and our partnership tune in before the main event.

We create pressure. So why do we psych ourselves up so much?

The answer is different for each of us.

For some, it’s the fear of judgment, that everyone is watching. For others, it’s the perfectionist voice that whispers that every stride needs to be textbook. Sometimes, it’s simply the nerves that come from wanting so badly to get it right.

Best performances come when we remember to focus on our own horse and plan, rather than what everyone else is doing. If you try to compare your warm-up to someone else’s, you lose focus on what your horse actually needs.

And therein lies the real trap of the warm-up: comparison. When we stop tuning in to our horse and start tuning in to everyone else, we disconnect from the very partnership that brought us here.

The warm-up isn’t about perfection or proving yourself; it’s about preparation. Your goal is to make your horse confident and rideable when you walk into the ring. It’s a simple, yet profound reframe that’s needed. The warm-up isn’t a test; it’s the foundation for what’s to come.

THE REFRAME
In order to level up as riders, we need to reframe the warm-up. Step into the warm-up with intention and clarity about your goal. You are here to prepare, not to prove. This is your space to build rhythm, connection, and confidence.

In the warm-up arena, focus on the process, not the outcome. Give both you and your horse the best possible opportunity to perform well by keeping calm and responsive. Move, stretch, and breathe. You are setting the tone for comfort and fluidity, not tension. Feel your horse beneath you, notice their energy, and meet it with balance rather than control.

Keep your mind in a clear and kind place. Use your cognitive tools such as positive visualisation, grounding exercises, and intentional self-talk to stay in your best headspace. Talk to yourself the way you would speak to your horse: encouraging, patient, and calm. Confidence grows from small wins, so finish your warm-up on something that feels smooth and easy.

As you prepare to enter the ring, stay responsive rather than reactive. Run through your plan, your rhythm, your routine, and visualise your round, but hold space for flexibility. You have done the work; now it is about trusting your process, staying present, and letting your preparation carry you.

REMIND YOURSELF
When you enter the warm-up arena, remind yourself:

You are not there to teach your horse something new.
You are not there to prove anything to anyone.
Your warm-up is your foundation, not your test.
Your goal isn’t to impress, it’s to prepare.
You are there to give you and your horse the best possible opportunity to enter the competition ring ready, connected, and confident.

Overworking, overcorrecting, and overthinking are easy traps, but the best riders know when to stop and trust their plan.

FINAL THOUGHTS

So next time you step into that crowded, buzzing warm-up arena, take a deep breath.

Remind yourself what you’re really doing there.

You’re setting the tone and foundation, not going for perfection. You’re warming up, not winding up. When you ride into that competition arena, you’ll feel the difference.

MEET

Gabrielle Kannemeyer

HQ meets the photographer document equestrian culture across South Africa

Gabrielle Kannemeyer is a visual artist and horse rider based in Cape Town. Her work reflects a visual celebration of the diverse environment in which she was raised, including her years spent photographing the horse cultures of her community, the Western Cape and specifically the Cape Town and Overberg regions.

HQ Magazine were fortunate enough to catch up with Gabrielle ahead of her presentation at the Cape Town Art Fair.

HQ: Can you tell us a bit about yourself, your background in art and what led you to become interested in horses and the horse community?

GK: I’m a photographer based in Cape Town, with a background in Fine Art. At university, photography became both my medium and a way of understanding the world, particularly around memory, place and how histories are carried and lost.

My relationship with horses began early, around the age of three or four. My father introduced me to them, and they became part of the landscape of my childhood. He took me to friends who owned horses, from the Overberg to Cape Town.

We spent afternoons at Kenilworth Racecourse watching horses move through the parade ring, sometimes sneaking into the trainers’ lounge because we shared a surname with a well–known trainer.

Some of my happiest memories are of visiting an uncle in Sandvlei, where I learned to ride. I’d clamber onto his haltered horse in the paddock while he and my dad drank tea and talked on the stoep. Those experiences gave me a sense of freedom and belonging. They’ve stayed with me all my life, even as the details soften with time.

HQ: Which images from your work mean the most to you?

GK: The images that mean the most to me are rooted in relationships rather than spectacle. Photographs that hold shared memory are powerful to me. Children with their horses, families at shows or rugby games, people grooming, and just spending time together.

There is something devastatingly beautiful about photographs of the everyday. They make my mind jog. I think it lies in the meditative commitment to seeing something remarkable in this life we so often take for granted.

HQ: You’ve recently had your first solo exhibition presented by Ebony. What goes into something like this, and what did it mean to you to get your first solo opportunity?

GK: The exhibition was an act of reflection and responsibility. It required deciding what to show, but also what to hold back. I had to think about how to shape a body of work that’s unfolded over years of lived experience.

As Necessary as Bread [Gabrielle’s first solo exhibition] meant a great deal to me. It was certainly a milestone. I was provided with a platform to freely express how culturally and historically important our stories are, and I think the work opened up a channel to a longer conversation.

HQ: Where can people find your work?

GK: This month I’ll be exhibiting at the Cape Town Art Fair with Ebony Curated, as well as in a group show titled Misfits curated by Alka Dass. My work can also be seen on Instagram, where I mostly share via stories and highlights, and physically at Ebony Curated and on the Sea Point Promenade.

Much of the work also exists beyond traditional art spaces. I make the work to exist within the communities themselves where images are shared and lived with (this is their original context).

HQ: Are you able to tell us anything about your future plans?

GK: I’m continuing on with the long–term documentary project, archiving horse culture across South Africa, from rural towns and showgrounds to suburbs and city edges. As you can imagine, it’s something that will take the time it needs.

Currently, I’m focusing on shooting a documentary. It has been a steep but wonderfully rewarding learning curve.

ABOUT THE WORK
HQ: Your work sits at the intersection of photography, memory, and place. How did horses, and equestrian culture specifically, become part of that visual and personal language for you?

GK: Horses were part of my earliest experiences of place. Wherever we lived, they became an anchor point… a proxy for home. We moved around a lot, and horses offered a sense of stability.

When I returned to photography after a long career in fashion, I did so with more intention. I wanted to express how horses carry memory, not only my own, but our collective cultural memory. They hold histories of labour, migration, sport, ceremony and family. Photographing them began as a way of photographing relationships.

HQ: You describe your practice as rooted in personal history and community connection. How does your own background shape the way you see and photograph South African horse culture?

GK: I photograph from within communities I’m a part of. These are places and some of the traditions I grew up around as a young girl and later returned to. That position shapes everything: the pace of the work, the trust that’s shared and the responsibility I feel toward how people are represented. As the project evolves and grows, I am changing too, and so I’m also being shaped by it all.

I’m not interested in distanced observation. My background allows me to work relationally, with care and accountability. I’m interested in every person, every horse, every story with a deep kinship.

HQ: Much of your work focuses on equestrian traditions that exist outside of mainstream, commercial narratives. What drew you to these spaces and communities?

GK: My culture, heritage and identity called me back to where it all began. This is a homecoming. This is my mainstream.

Other equestrian imagery often excludes the realities I know. I am excited to share with the world how in our communities, horses are also embedded in our culture, faith, family, and legacy… they’re in our blood!

HQ: Horses often appear in South Africa’s history – from labour and transport to sport and ceremony – yet many of these stories feel underrepresented. What do you think gets lost when these histories aren’t seen or recorded?

GK: Entire lineages of knowledge disappear. Traditions become fragments, anecdotes without context. When histories aren’t recorded, communities are rendered invisible. Documentation becomes a way of resisting that erasure.

HQ: You work through portraiture, archival research, and participation rather than observation alone. Why is it important to you to be inside the story rather than looking in from the outside?

GK: Photography is a powerful tool, and it can be harmful when wielded without care, especially when documenting communities one isn’t part of.

I think for me, being inside the work results in a tension, a deep and sometimes difficult consideration of the relationship I have with my responsibility to the truth, to my community, accountability and reciprocity. It’s something that I carry in all the ways that an outsider cannot.

HQ: Many of the communities you photograph have long, intergenerational relationships with horses. What have you learned about how knowledge, tradition, and horsemanship are passed down?

GK: Through watching, repetition and storytelling, knowledge lives in our bodies. In how reins are held, how horses are tacked up, how they are touched and spoken to, how children learn by standing close and observing elders… yes, it’s deeply intergenerational.

HQ: Your images often carry a sense of quiet dignity and pride. How do you navigate representation when photographing communities that have historically been overlooked or misrepresented?

GK: By working slowly and collaboratively, if possible. Sometimes photographs are candid and it’s easy for the eye gravitate to only look for the sensational… The rearing horse, a big wow moment that describes the conventional ways we see people and horses. I try to train my eye and to look for the moments in between, the everyday. I always set the intention to photograph people as they see themselves.

I balance aesthetics with responsibility by ensuring that beauty never overrides truth. I feel that aesthetics should serve the story and the people within it.

HQ: The title of your recent solo exhibition, As Necessary as Bread, suggests something fundamental to daily life. What does that phrase mean in the context of horses and culture for you?

GK: The phrase comes from historian Sandra Swart’s writing on the horse in South Africa. Jan van Riebeeck once described horses as “as necessary as bread” – essential infrastructure for conquest and extraction.

For me, the phrase means something else. The horse is no longer merely a tool of domination. They become collaborators, reimagining heritage, belonging and sovereignty in my community.

I’m interested in grounding my work in lived experience. The necessity I photograph is relational, rooted in care, memory and importantly, continuity.

HQ: For readers who are deeply involved in horses but may not have encountered this broader cultural lens before, what do you hope they notice, or reconsider, when they see your work?

GK: That equestrian culture in South Africa is vast and diverse. That there isn’t only one way to ride, train, or belong. Horses connect our communities across difference in powerful ways. I hope that people will challenge themselves to reconsider what they think they know about horse culture in South Africa.

HQ: Finally, how do you see this body of work evolving over time, and what role do you believe photography can play in preserving South Africa’s equestrian heritage?

GK: As a living archive, one that grows through existence within it, collaboration and care. Photography, for me, is a tool for continuity, ensuring that our histories remain visible and valued.

You can see Gabrielle’s work at the Investec Cape Town Art Fair (20th to the 22nd of February) with Ebony Curated, as well as in a group show titled Misfits curated by Alka Dass. You can follow Gabrielle on Instagram at @gabriellekannemeyer

TEXT: Alejandra González

Changing the

language of riding

How awareness, biomechanics, and horsemanship are reshaping rider education

I have loved horses for as long as I can remember.

I was fortunate to grow up in a family with horses – my father was a horse trainer – so horses were never just a hobby; they were part of my everyday life. But it wasn’t until I began studying horsemanship that everything truly changed.

Horsemanship opened both my mind and my heart. It taught me that understanding horses goes far beyond technique or control – it begins with listening. Listening to their language, their energy, and their emotional state. Learning to feel, to observe, and to respond with clarity and compassion. True communication, I learned, is built through presence, sensitivity, and mutual respect.

That understanding came thanks to a very special teacher – a horse who was not easy. A horse who challenged me, pushed me out of my comfort zone, and asked me to become more patient, more aware, and more honest in my communication. Through him, I learned that relationship must always come before performance.

At the same time, my background in the fitness world sparked another curiosity. I wanted to understand how to ride more efficiently and how to help riders develop better timing, feel, and clarity in the saddle. Over time, I began to notice that many challenges attributed to the horse were deeply connected to how the rider was organised – physically, mentally, and neurologically.

Through embodied rider biomechanics, those questions deepened. I began exploring the relationship between mind, body, and awareness in riding. Riders do not simply need to be stronger, more flexible, or more technically skilled. They need integration. The nervous system must learn to coordinate with the horse’s movement so that aids become timely, clear, and appropriate.

One principle guides all of mywork today:
Responsibility always belongs to the one with the more complex nervous system.

Whether we are working from the ground or from the saddle, it is our responsibility to listen, organise ourselves, and communicate clearly.

Horsemanship taught me how to listen to horses.

Biomechanics taught me how to help riders listen to themselves.

WHEN THE RIDER CHANGES, THE HORSE RESPONDS
When a rider becomes better organised in their own body, the change in the horse is often immediate – and profound.

Movement shifts. Muscular tension softens. Mental tension softens too. When riders coordinate their movement more effectively, the horse no longer needs to compensate for imbalance, restriction, or unnecessary effort coming from above.

Many horses spend their working lives adapting to the rider’s tension. They brace, rush, disconnect, or lose clarity – not because they are resistant, but because they are trying to cope. When the rider carries excess tension or unclear movement patterns, the horse is forced to manage two nervous systems instead of one.

As the rider’s body becomes clearer and more coordinated, the horse’s job becomes easier. Balance improves without force. Transitions become smoother. Movement flows more freely through the spine. Communication becomes quieter, more precise, and more fair.

This is where biomechanics and horsemanship truly meet. Clear organisation in the rider creates clear information for the horse. Timing improves. Aids become lighter. The horse is no longer reacting to tension, but responding to intention.

Ultimately, this work is not about changing the horse; it is about removing what interferes with the horse’s natural ability to move, think, and respond.

EXPERIENCING THE WORK: THE INTERNATIONAL BIOMECHANICS SYMPOSIUM
This philosophy comes to life at the International Biomechanics Symposium.

Rather than focusing on isolated techniques or disciplines, the symposium brings together internationally respected educators to explore how horses and riders move, learn, and perform as an integrated system. The emphasis is not on fixing problems, but on developing understanding.

During my sessions, riders are invited to experience the difference that organisation, coordination, and awareness make in real time. Through simple, embodied exercises – both on the ground and in the saddle – riders begin to recognise how their own movement patterns influence the horse’s balance, tension, and response.

What often surprises participants most is how quickly things shift. When riders organise themselves more clearly, horses respond with less resistance and more ease. The work is not about riding ‘better,’ but about riding with greater clarity and fairness.

The symposium creates space for curiosity rather than judgment. Riders do not need to be advanced, nor do they need prior knowledge of biomechanics. They simply need a willingness to observe, feel, and learn. Whether participating in live demonstrations, one–on–one sessions, group workshops, or spectating, attendees leave with insights they can apply immediately.

Hosted by Centreline Collective, the event reflects a growing shift in rider education – one that values welfare, longevity, and performance equally.

LOOKING AHEAD: CHANGING THE LANGUAGE OF RIDING
What excites me most about the future of rider education is the opportunity to change the language of riding.

For decades, equestrian instruction has relied on cues and terminology that are biomechanically inaccurate or neurologically unclear. Many were passed down with good intentions, yet they often create confusion, excess tension, or compensation, both in the rider’s body and in the horse.

Today, we have the opportunity to do better.

As our understanding of the human body and brain continues to grow, we can refine the dialogue we use in riding. Cueing no longer needs to rely on force, correction, or abstract commands. It can become clearer, more precise, and more aligned with how bodies actually move and learn.

When riders truly understand their own bodies, cues are no longer something they ‘apply’ to the horse. They emerge naturally through posture, balance, timing, and intention. This shift doesn’t only improve performance – it supports welfare, longevity, and a more honest partnership.

I believe we are at a turning point in equestrian education. One where biomechanics, awareness, and horsemanship come together to create a more intelligent and compassionate way of riding. When we change how we move, we change how we communicate, and ultimately, how we train.

That is the future that excites me most, and the conversation I am committed to continuing.

To learn more about the International Biomechanics Symposium or book tickets
to attend visit
www.centrelinecollective.co.za

Shade and shelter

Keeping horses cool in hot weather

Summer in Southern Africa can be relentless and heat stress becomes a genuine concern for horse welfare. While horses are remarkably adaptable animals, they struggle more with heat than with cold; their large body mass, relatively small surface area, and the heat generated during exercise make them vulnerable to overheating.

Providing adequate shade and shelter isn't a luxury; it's a fundamental welfare requirement during hot weather. Yet many properties lack appropriate shade structures, relying on a single tree or inadequate coverage that leaves horses exposed during the hottest parts of the day. This guide explores how to create effective shade and shelter solutions, manage turnout strategically during extreme heat, and ensure your horses stay comfortable and healthy throughout summer.

UNDERSTANDING HEAT STRESS IN HORSES
Before diving into solutions, it's worth understanding how horses regulate their body temperature and what happens when that system is overwhelmed.

Horses maintain their core body temperature primarily through sweating. When ambient temperature rises, blood vessels near the skin surface dilate, bringing warm blood closer to the surface where heat can dissipate. Sweating then cools the skin through evaporation. This system works remarkably well – until it doesn't.

DID YOU KNOW?
A horse can produce as much heat during intense exercise as a small space heater.

Several factors compromise thermoregulation. High humidity prevents sweat from evaporating effectively, meaning the horse sweats but doesn't cool down. Direct sun exposure heats the horse's dark coat, adding to the thermal load. Lack of air movement reduces evaporative cooling. And of course, exercise generates enormous amounts of heat.

Early signs of heat stress include excessive sweating, increased respiratory rate, reluctance to move, and aggressive seeking of shade. If heat stress progresses to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, you'll see incoordination, muscle tremors, a rapid, weak pulse, and potentially collapse. Heat stroke is a veterinary emergency requiring immediate intervention.

The good news? With appropriate shade, water access, and management, heat stress is largely preventable. The key is providing horses with options; they're quite good at regulating themselves if given the tools to do so.

NATURAL SHADE
Natural shade from trees remains the gold standard for horse paddocks. Trees provide not only shade but also evaporative cooling from their leaves, windbreak effects, and a more natural environment that horses seem to prefer. However, not all trees are created equal when it comes to shade provision.

CHOOSING AND PLANTING SHADE TREES
If you're fortunate enough to be developing a new property or have areas where you can plant trees, choose species carefully. Ideal shade trees for horse paddocks share several characteristics: they're fast–growing (you don't want to wait twenty years for shade), have spreading canopies that create substantial shade areas, are non–toxic to horses, and are hardy enough to survive in the local climate with minimal irrigation once established.

In South Africa, excellent choices include various acacia species (though beware of thorns), tamboti, wild olive, and some fig species. However, avoid trees with toxic properties, i.e. species like oak, yew, and black walnut have no place in horse paddocks.

Next, it is important to plant trees where they'll provide afternoon shade; this is typically the hottest part of the day. Position them away from fence lines where horses congregating might create escape opportunities or fence damage. Consider planting in groups rather than single trees; clusters create larger shade areas and provide options when multiple horses need shelter simultaneously.

Protect young trees from horse damage. Use robust fencing at least two metres away from the trunk to prevent browsing, bark rubbing, and trampling. Plan for the mature size of the tree – that sapling might look insignificant now, but in ten years it could have a canopy twenty metres across. Water regularly during establishment, typically for the first two to three years, then most native species should survive on natural rainfall (particularly with our weather at the moment!)

MANAGING EXISTING TREES
If you already have mature trees, maintain them properly to maximise their shade provision and longevity. Prune dead or dangerous branches that could fall on horses. However, avoid excessive pruning during summer as you'll reduce the very shade you're trying to provide. Major pruning is best done in winter when trees are dormant.

Monitor trees for damage from horses. Repeated bark rubbing can eventually kill a tree by ring–barking it. If horses are damaging trees, install protective fencing or provide alternative rubbing posts elsewhere in the paddock. Some yards successfully use metal posts wrapped with carpet or rubber matting as sacrificial rubbing posts.

Be aware that heavy horse traffic under trees compacts soil, potentially harming root systems. Consider rotating which paddocks receive full–time turnout, giving areas under trees periodic rest. In high–traffic shade areas, you might need to install gravel or rubber matting to prevent complete soil degradation while still allowing water penetration to roots.

WHEN TREES AREN'T ENOUGH
Even with trees, natural shade often falls short of what's needed. Young trees don't provide adequate shade for years. Trees lose leaves seasonally, reducing summer shade when it's needed most. And many properties simply don't have suitable trees in the right locations. This is where artificial shade structures become essential.

ARTIFICIAL SHADE STRUCTURES
Purpose–built shade structures can provide immediate relief and can be positioned exactly where needed. The key is understanding what makes a shade structure effective versus an expensive but useless installation.

ESSENTIAL DESIGN PRINCIPLES
Size matters: A shade structure needs to be large enough for all horses that will use it simultaneously, plus a safety margin. A general rule of thumb is at least four to five square metres per horse. For a group of four horses, plan for at least 20 square metres of shade. Err on the side of too large rather than too small; horses won't crowd into inadequate shade, and dominant horses may prevent others from accessing limited shelter.

Height is critical: Shade structures should be at least 3.5 to 4 metres high at the lowest point. This allows adequate air circulation underneath, which is crucial for cooling. Low structures trap heat and defeat the purpose. Higher is generally better, within reason, as you still need to be able to construct and maintain the structure safely.

Orientation and positioning: Position structures to provide afternoon shade, which is typically when horses need it most. In the Southern Hemisphere, a north–facing structure will provide excellent afternoon coverage. You should also consider the prevailing wind direction – you want breezes to flow through the structure, not be blocked by it. Avoid positioning structures in low–lying areas where heat accumulates; higher ground with air movement is preferable.

Open sides: Effective shade structures should be open on at least three sides, ideally all four sides. Enclosed sides trap hot air and prevent the air circulation needed for cooling. The exception is if you're building a structure that also serves as a winter windbreak – in this case, consider removable side panels that can be installed seasonally.

Roof material: The roof material significantly impacts cooling effectiveness. Options include shade cloth, corrugated iron, IBR sheeting, and thatch. Each has advantages and disadvantages that we'll explore in detail.

ROOFING MATERIALS
Shade cloth: Purpose–made shade cloth is available in various densities, typically 50% to 90% shade. The material blocks direct sun while allowing some light through and permitting excellent air circulation. Advantages include relatively low cost, ease of installation, and availability in various colours and sizes. Green or black cloth tends to be most durable. Disadvantages include limited lifespan (typically 5 to 10 years depending on quality and UV exposure), potential for wind damage if not properly secured, and less protection from rain compared to solid roofing. For pure shade provision during summer, quality shade cloth at 70% to 80% density is hard to beat for cost–effectiveness.

Corrugated iron or IBR: Metal roofing provides complete protection from sun and rain, is extremely durable, and requires minimal maintenance. However, metal roofs have a significant disadvantage: they absorb and radiate enormous amounts of heat. Standing under a metal roof on a 35°C day can actually feel hotter than standing in direct sun because of radiant heat from the metal. If using metal roofing, paint it with reflective white or light–coloured paint, and ensure the structure is tall enough that horses aren't directly under the hot metal. Some yards install shade cloth 30 to 50 centimetres below metal roofing, creating an air gap that significantly reduces radiant heat while maintaining the weatherproof benefits of metal.

Thatch: Traditional thatch provides excellent insulation, keeping the area beneath remarkably cool. Thatch also looks attractive and fits well with certain property aesthetics. However, thatch is expensive to install, requires skilled labour, needs regular maintenance, and has a limited lifespan compared to modern materials. It's also a potential fire hazard in dry areas. Despite these drawbacks, properly maintained thatch remains one of the coolest roofing options available.

Canvas or heavy–duty tarps: While cheap and readily available, standard tarps are generally unsuitable for permanent shade structures. They degrade rapidly in the sun, tear easily in the wind, and can create hazardous flapping that frightens horses. If using tarps as a temporary measure, secure them extremely well and inspect daily for damage.

STRUCTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
Shade structures need to be built robustly. They'll face intense sun, wind, and curious horses that might rub, chew, or kick at supporting posts. Use treated timber posts at least 100mm in diameter or steel poles. Concrete footings for all posts are essential as surface–mounted structures won't survive the first strong wind. Posts should extend at least 60 to 80 centimetres into the ground, more in sandy soil.

Space posts appropriately for your roofing material. Shade cloth can span larger distances, while metal roofing needs closer support. Consult with a builder if unsure.

All posts and structural elements within horse reach need protection. Wrap exposed timber with wire mesh to prevent chewing. Check regularly for damage and repair promptly as horses can injure themselves on damaged structures. Consider using smooth metal posts rather than timber if chewing is a persistent problem, though metal posts get hot in the sun and horses may be reluctant to stand near them.

FLOORING
The area under your shade structure will receive heavy traffic and needs appropriate surfacing. Bare earth quickly becomes a dust bowl in dry weather or a mud pit when it rains. Several options provide better footing and easier maintenance.

Gravel: A 15 to 20 centimetre layer of crusher run or similar compacted gravel provides excellent drainage and remains stable under traffic. Costs are moderate. Disadvantages include eventual compaction requiring top–up, horses may pick up stones in their hooves (requiring daily picking), and gravel can be uncomfortable for barefoot horses to stand on for extended periods.

Sand: Coarse river sand drains well and is comfortable for horses. However, sand gets tracked everywhere, needs regular raking to maintain a level surface, and can cause sand colic if horses consume significant quantities. If using sand, consider rubber matting in feeding areas to minimise sand ingestion with feed.

Rubber matting: Interlocking rubber mats provide an excellent, low–maintenance surface that's comfortable for horses and easy to clean. Initial costs are high but durability is outstanding with quality mats lasting decades. Rubber mats drain well if installed over a gravel base with a proper slope. The main disadvantage is cost; expect to pay significantly more than with gravel or sand options.

Concrete: While durable and easy to maintain, concrete has significant disadvantages for horses. It's hard on legs and hooves if horses stand on it for extended periods, gets extremely hot in direct sun, and is slippery when wet. If using concrete, ensure it has a rough finish for traction and consider rubber mats on top.

Whatever surface you choose, ensure adequate drainage away from the structure. Standing water creates mud, attracts flies, and can undermine structural footings. A gentle slope of 1 to 2% is sufficient to move water away while not being so steep that horses find it uncomfortable to stand on.

STRATEGIC TURNOUT MANAGEMENT
Even with excellent shade available, sometimes the best approach to extreme heat is to modify your turnout routine. This requires balancing several factors: your horses' needs for movement and social interaction, available facilities, and your own schedule constraints.

NIGHT TURNOUT
In many parts of the world, switching to night turnout during hot months is an excellent solution – cooler temperatures, inactive flies, and comfortable grazing conditions. However, in Southern Africa, night turnout carries a significant risk that must be carefully considered: African Horse Sickness.

AHS
African Horse Sickness (AHS) is a viral disease transmitted by Culicoides midges – tiny biting insects barely visible to the naked eye. AHS is endemic throughout Southern Africa and can be fatal, with some forms having mortality rates exceeding 90% in unvaccinated horses. The critical factor for turnout management is that Culicoides midges are most active during two specific periods: dusk (from about an hour before sunset until full darkness) and dawn (from first light until about an hour after sunrise).

This creates a significant dilemma. The coolest, most comfortable turnout times for horses coincide exactly with peak midge activity periods. Traditional night turnout – putting horses out in late afternoon and bringing them in mid–morning – exposes them during both high–risk windows.

Regional and seasonal variations
AHS risk varies significantly by region and season. The Western Cape generally has lower risk than other provinces, while the eastern regions of South Africa, particularly low–lying areas, face higher risk. Risk increases during warm, wet periods when midge populations explode, typically late summer and autumn. During winter, when temperatures drop and rainfall is minimal, AHS risk decreases significantly in most areas.

Your vet and local horse community are your best sources of current AHS risk information. Risk can change from year to year and even month to month based on weather patterns. What was safe last summer might not be safe this summer.

Safer turnout for AHS areas
In areas with significant AHS risk, the safest approach is to keep horses stabled during peak midge activity times. This means stabling from one hour before sunset until one hour after sunrise. This covers both high–risk periods. Yes, this means horses are stabled during the coolest night hours, but it significantly reduces AHS exposure.

Alternatively, some yards in moderate–risk areas use a modified schedule that provides some night turnout while minimising midge exposure:

Bring horses in well before sunset (by 4 or 5pm) to avoid dusk midge activity.
Turn out after full darkness has fallen (8 or 9pm), when midge activity drops significantly.
Bring in again before dawn (5 or 6am) to avoid morning midge activity.
Turn out during mid–morning for daytime grazing with shade available.

This schedule is labour–intensive, requiring four movements per day, and may not be practical for many facilities. It also means horses have shorter continuous turnout periods. However, it does provide some cooler turnout time while avoiding peak midge periods.

Vaccination is essential
Regardless of your turnout strategy, AHS vaccination is non–negotiable for horses in Southern Africa. The vaccine significantly reduces mortality risk, though it doesn't provide 100% protection. Ensure your horses are up to date on their AHS vaccination and maintain the recommended booster schedule. Vaccination combined with strategic management during high–risk periods provides the best protection.

Never become complacent because your horses are vaccinated. Vaccination is one layer of protection; avoiding peak midge times is another critical layer. Both together provide far better protection than either alone.

MAKING THE DECISION
There's no one–size–fits–all answer to turnout timing in Southern Africa. Your decision should be based on:

Current local AHS risk (consult your veterinarian)
Your property's location and midge population
Available shade and cooling facilities
Labour availability for managing multiple turnout times
Individual horse heat tolerance

In high–risk areas during peak season, prioritise AHS prevention over heat management (within reason). Invest heavily in shade structures, fans, and cooling strategies to make day turnout as comfortable as possible. In lower–risk areas or during winter, you may have more flexibility to use cooler turnout times.

Discuss your specific situation with your vet, who understands local disease patterns and can provide guidance tailored to your circumstances. Don't rely solely on what worked for someone else or what's standard practice elsewhere, as AHS changes everything about turnout management in our region.

MANAGING DAY TURNOUT IN EXTREME HEAT
If horses must be out during hot days, several strategies minimise heat stress:

Ensure adequate shade for all horses in the paddock simultaneously. Don't rely on herd dynamics working out. Rather, provide enough shade that even the lowest–ranking horse has access.
Provide multiple water sources. Horses drink more in hot weather, and a single trough may be inadequate or become warm and unpalatable. Multiple troughs also reduce competition for water access.
Consider splitting larger groups. More horses generate more heat through body proximity and movement. During extreme heat, smaller groups in separate paddocks with adequate shade may be more comfortable.
Avoid turning out during peak heat hours. If you have flexibility in scheduling, provide turnout early morning and evening rather than midday. Two shorter turnout sessions can provide adequate exercise and social time without extended heat exposure.
Monitor vulnerable horses closely. Older horses, overweight horses, those with dark coats, and horses with respiratory conditions are more susceptible to heat stress. They may need modified turnout or stable management during extreme weather.

INDIVIDUAL HORSE CONSIDERATIONS
Not all horses cope equally with heat. Learn to recognise which of your horses struggle and adapt their management accordingly. A horse that seeks shade constantly, sweats excessively, or becomes lethargic in heat needs closer monitoring and possibly modified turnout.

Dark–coloured horses absorb more solar radiation than light–coloured ones. A black horse in direct sun can have surface temperatures 10 to 15 degrees higher than a grey or white horse. While you can't change coat colour, you can provide these horses with fly sheets in light colours that reflect rather than absorb heat.

Horses adapted to cooler climates struggle more with heat than those raised in warm regions. If you've recently imported a horse or moved from a cooler area, allow extra time for acclimatisation and provide additional cooling support.

WHEN TO CALL YOUR VET
Despite your best efforts at prevention, heat–related illness can occur. Knowing when a situation requires veterinary intervention rather than simple cooling measures can be critical.

Call your veterinarian immediately if you observe these signs:

Temperature above 40°C that doesn't come down with cooling measures
Rapid, weak pulse that doesn't improve
Incoordination or inability to stand
Dry, hot skin without sweating (in a situation where sweating is expected)
Muscle tremors or seizures
Depression or altered mental state
Dark red or purple mucous membranes

While waiting for the vet, continue active cooling with running water, move the horse to shade, use fans where possible, offer small amounts of water frequently (don't allow large drinks all at once), and keep the horse as calm as possible. If the horse is standing, walking them slowly can help with circulation and cooling, but don't force movement if they're weak or incoordinated.

FINAL THOUGHTS
Effective heat management is about being proactive rather than reactive. Observe your horses closely; they'll tell you what they need if you pay attention. A horse that's comfortable in hot weather will still be alert, will eat normally, will seek shade when needed but not appear desperate for it, and will have normal vital signs. Ultimately, the investments you make in proper shade structures, good management practices, and attention to detail during hot weather pay dividends in your horses' comfort, health, and performance.

Electrolytes explained

When and how to supplement

Few topics in equine nutrition generate as much confusion and conflicting advice as electrolyte supplementation. Walk into any tack shop, and you'll find shelves stocked with electrolyte products in every conceivable form: powders, pastes, pellets, liquids. Ask ten different horse owners when and how to use them, and you'll likely get ten different answers. Some swear by year–round daily supplementation, others use them only after intense work, and still others question whether they're necessary at all. Here at HQ, we’ve long shared in that confusion, but with our ‘new year, new you’ mindset still fresh, we thought we’d dive into a topic that has long struck fear into the HQ editorial team.

The truth about electrolytes, as research reveals, lies somewhere in the nuanced middle ground of all the advice you’re likely to hear. Electrolyte supplementation can be genuinely beneficial, even crucial, for horses in certain circumstances. But it's not always necessary, and inappropriate use can actually cause more problems than it solves. Understanding what electrolytes are, how horses lose and replace them, and when supplementation is truly warranted allows you to make evidence–based decisions for your horse's welfare.

This article (which has taken us many hours to research and produce!) examines the science behind electrolyte supplementation, acknowledging both where research provides clear answers and where significant questions remain. Because this is an area where evidence is sometimes conflicting and recommendations have evolved, all major claims are referenced to their research sources.

THE UNIQUE NATURE OF HORSE SWEAT
What makes horses particularly vulnerable to electrolyte depletion is the composition of their sweat. Horse sweat is hypertonic, meaning it contains a higher concentration of electrolytes than the blood itself (McCutcheon & Geor, 1996). This contrasts dramatically with human sweat, which is hypotonic, meaning it contains a lower concentration of electrolytes than blood. This means that when a horse sweats, he loses proportionally more electrolytes relative to water than a human does.

The visible evidence is obvious: the characteristic white foam and salt crystals on a horse's coat or between the hind legs after work. This is visual proof of massive electrolyte loss. Research shows that horses can lose up to 10 to 15 litres of sweat per hour during intense exercise, with each litre containing approximately 3.5 grams of sodium, 6 grams of chloride, 1.2 grams of potassium, plus smaller amounts of calcium and magnesium (Lindinger, 2022).

"A horse performing prolonged moderate to intense exercise can lose 30 to 40 grams of sodium in a single session, which is more than 20 times their daily maintenance requirement."

Importantly, horses lose substantial amounts of electrolytes even when sweat isn't visibly dripping. In hot, dry conditions, sweat evaporates almost as soon as it reaches the skin surface, meaning the horse still loses the electrolytes, but owners don't see the wetness and may underestimate losses (Lindinger, 2022). This is particularly relevant in South African summers, where low humidity facilitates rapid evaporation.

UNDERSTANDING ELECTROLYTES: THE BASICS
Electrolytes are minerals that, when dissolved in body fluids, carry an electrical charge. The primary equine electrolytes are sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. These charged minerals are essential for virtually every physiological process: maintaining fluid balance, enabling nerve impulse transmission, facilitating muscle contraction and relaxation, and regulating pH balance (Lindinger, 2022).

Unlike many nutrients, electrolytes cannot be stored in the body beyond what's dissolved in body fluids and contained within cells. They're constantly being lost through urine, faeces, and, most significantly for athletic horses, sweat. This means electrolytes must be continuously replenished through diet (Lindinger, 2022).

DO HORSES NEED SUPPLEMENTATION?
This is where the controversy begins, as the answer depends entirely on the individual horse's circumstances, and research provides both clear guidance and remaining uncertainties.

HORSES THAT DON'T NEED SUPPLEMENTATION
Horses at maintenance or in light work generally receive adequate electrolytes from a forage–based diet, with one critical exception: sodium. Forages provide ample potassium but are notoriously deficient in sodium and chloride. However, this deficiency is easily addressed with free–choice access to salt, either as a block or loose granulated salt (Mad Barn, 2022).

For horses doing light work (gentle hacking, light schooling sessions under an hour) in moderate temperatures, a balanced diet plus salt is typically sufficient. These horses aren't sweating heavily enough to deplete electrolytes beyond what normal dietary intake and salt consumption can replace. Adding electrolyte supplements in these circumstances isn't harmful if adequate water is provided, but it's probably unnecessary (Hartog, 2024).

WHEN SUPPLEMENTATION BECOMES IMPORTANT
The evidence strongly supports electrolyte supplementation for horses engaged in prolonged moderate–to–intense exercise, particularly in hot or humid conditions. Multiple studies demonstrate measurable benefits:

Research by Waller and Lindinger (2021) showed that horses given electrolyte supplementation before exercise maintained better hydration status, lost less fluid from muscle tissue, and could work significantly longer than horses given water alone. The pre–exercise electrolyte loading helped protect muscle cell electrolyte content despite ongoing sweat losses.

Studies of endurance horses found that those receiving electrolyte supplementation drank more water voluntarily, lost less body weight, and maintained higher blood sodium and chloride levels compared to unsupplemented horses (Zeyner et al., 2017, as cited in Kentucky Equine Research, 2025).

The practical implication is clear: horses sweating heavily for extended periods – endurance horses, event horses, racehorses in training, horses competing in hot weather – benefit measurably from electrolyte supplementation. The supplement helps maintain hydration, supports continued performance, and aids recovery (Lindinger, 2022).

THE GREY ZONE: MODERATE WORK
Where guidance becomes less clear is for horses in moderate work, i.e. a typical riding horse doing an hour of schooling that produces visible sweat but not profuse sweating. Here, the research doesn't provide definitive answers, and expert opinions vary.

Some nutritionists argue that these horses can adequately replenish electrolytes through their normal diet plus salt over the course of 24 hours, making immediate supplementation unnecessary. Others suggest that supplementation aids faster recovery, which matters if the horse will work again the next day (Integrity Horse Feed, 2025).

A practical guideline suggested by some researchers is to consider the combined effect of temperature and humidity: if the temperature in Fahrenheit plus relative humidity percentage exceeds 150, conditions warrant electrolyte supplementation even for moderate work (Integrity Horse Feed, 2025). In South African summers, this threshold is frequently exceeded.

WHAT MAKES AN EFFECTIVE ELECTROLYTE SUPPLEMENT
Not all electrolyte products are created equal, and research provides clear guidance on what constitutes an effective supplement.

PROPER ELECTROLYTE RATIOS
An effective supplement should replace electrolytes in proportions similar to what's lost in sweat. Research by Lindinger (2022) emphasises that proportion matters more than absolute concentration. The supplement should provide sodium, chloride, potassium, magnesium, and calcium in ratios that mirror sweat composition.

As a general guide, a good electrolyte supplement should contain approximately equal amounts of sodium plus potassium as chloride. Many commercial products meet this standard, though careful label reading is required (GAIN Equine, 2024).

THE SUGAR CONTROVERSY
Many electrolyte supplements contain significant amounts of dextrose or glucose. Manufacturers often claim that this enhances absorption, citing human sports drink research. However, research specific to horses tells a different story.

A study by Lindinger and Ecker (2013) found that adding dextrose to equine electrolyte supplements did not increase the rate of electrolyte absorption in horses. This suggests that supplements with high sugar concentrations offer no absorption advantage and simply add unnecessary calories. For horses with metabolic concerns or those prone to gastric ulceration, high–sugar electrolytes may be contraindicated (Kentucky Equine Research, 2025).

The evidence supports choosing electrolyte supplements with minimal added sugars and avoiding those that list glucose or dextrose as primary ingredients (GAIN Equine, 2024).

OSMOLALITY MATTERS
For effective absorption, electrolyte solutions should be slightly hypotonic, i.e. less concentrated than body fluids. Although horse sweat itself is hypertonic, research in both humans and horses shows that hypotonic electrolyte solutions are absorbed more efficiently from the gastrointestinal tract (Lindinger, 2022).

This means concentrated electrolyte pastes or powders given without adequate water can actually slow gastric emptying and delay absorption. The practical implication: electrolytes must always be given with plenty of water.

HOW TO SUPPLEMENT: TIMING AND DELIVERY
Research provides increasingly clear guidance on optimal timing and methods for electrolyte supplementation, though some controversy remains.

THE CASE FOR PRE-EXERCISE LOADING
Recent research strongly supports giving electrolytes before exercise rather than waiting until afterwards. Waller and Lindinger's (2021) study on pre–exercise electrolyte loading showed that horses given a large volume electrolyte solution approximately one to two hours before exercise maintained better fluid and electrolyte balance throughout work and recovery.

The mechanism makes physiological sense: the stomach and small intestine act as a reservoir for water and electrolytes. When horses consume electrolytes before work, the ions are rapidly absorbed in the small intestine and transported to muscles and skin, where they're immediately available to replace sweat losses as they occur (Lindinger, 2022).

Practical application: for planned exercise or competition, offer electrolytes mixed in feed or dissolved in water one to two hours beforehand. This pre–loading strategy appears more effective than post–exercise supplementation alone.

DURING EXERCISE
For prolonged exercise lasting several hours (such as endurance rides), offering electrolytes during work helps maintain balance. However, this requires horses to drink the electrolyte solution voluntarily, which raises an important consideration: palatability and training.

Many horses initially refuse water with added electrolytes due to taste. Research by Lindinger (2022) emphasises that horses can be trained to accept and even prefer electrolyte solutions, but this training must occur gradually during low–stress periods. Start with very dilute solutions and slowly increase concentration over weeks. By competition day, the horse should readily drink electrolyte water.

POST–EXERCISE SUPPLEMENTATION
Despite emphasis on pre–exercise loading, post–exercise supplementation remains valuable, particularly after prolonged intense work. Research shows that horses don't fully replace electrolyte losses during exercise; continued supplementation for one to three days after intense work supports complete recovery (Integrity Horse Feed, 2025).

However, timing matters. Allow horses to drink plain water first after work, as they're thirsty and will drink more readily without the taste of electrolytes. Once initial thirst is quenched (typically after 10 to 15 minutes), offer electrolytes in feed or as a separate supplement (Lindinger, 2022).

DELIVERY METHODS
Electrolytes are available as powders, pastes, and pellets. Each has advantages:

Powders: Most economical and flexible. Can be mixed in feed or dissolved in water. Allows precise dosing. The preferred form for routine supplementation.
Pastes: Convenient for competition when feed isn't available or accepted. Ensures the full dose is consumed. However, pastes must be followed immediately by water as giving a concentrated paste without water can cause gastric irritation (Kentucky Equine Research, 2025).
Pellets: Easy to feed in measured amounts. Some horses prefer these to powder. Generally more expensive per dose.

Avoid adding electrolytes to the only available water source, as some horses will refuse to drink adequately, worsening dehydration rather than helping (Mad Barn, 2022). Always provide plain water alongside any electrolyte–supplemented water.

WHEN SUPPLEMENTATION CAN CAUSE ISSUES
While appropriate electrolyte use is beneficial, inappropriate supplementation can cause genuine harm. Understanding the risks allows you to avoid them.

THE CRITICAL IMPORTANCE OF WATER
Giving electrolytes without adequate water access is potentially dangerous. Electrolytes increase blood osmolality, triggering thirst. If a horse cannot drink, they experience uncomfortable thirst without the ability to satisfy it. More seriously, concentrated electrolytes without water were seen in some studies to draw fluid from the gut into the bloodstream, potentially contributing to impaction colic.

A study examining powder electrolyte supplementation during a multi–day trail ride found an increased risk of colic in supplemented horses, likely due to limited water access during riding (Walker et al., 2005). The research concluded that oral powder electrolytes should be used with caution when water isn't freely available.

The absolute rule: never give electrolytes, in any form, unless the horse has free access to fresh water immediately before, during, and after supplementation.

GASTRIC ULCER CONCERNS
Research by Holbrook et al. (2005) examined whether repeated administration of hypertonic electrolyte solutions could damage gastric mucosa. The study found evidence that concentrated electrolyte pastes given repeatedly without adequate buffering or dilution might contribute to gastric irritation in susceptible horses.

For horses with known or suspected gastric ulcers, electrolytes should be given mixed in feed or dissolved in water rather than as concentrated pastes. Some manufacturers now offer buffered electrolyte formulations specifically designed to minimise gastric irritation (Redmond Equine, 2024).

THE RISK OF OVER-SUPPLEMENTATION
While the horse's body can excrete excess electrolytes through urine when adequate water is available, over–supplementation still carries risks. Excessive potassium, in particular, can cause cardiac arrhythmias in severe cases. High salt intake without corresponding water intake can lead to hypernatremia (elevated blood sodium), causing neurological signs (Horse and Rider, 2025).

Practically, this means following product feeding guidelines and not doubling doses ‘just to be safe.’ More is not better. If you're unsure whether your horse needs supplementation, err on the side of providing salt and allowing the horse to self–regulate rather than force–feeding large amounts of electrolytes.

LOADING BEFORE TRAVEL OR COMPETITION
Despite marketing claims about ‘loading’ horses with electrolytes days before competition, this practice lacks scientific support and may cause problems. Chronic over–supplementation doesn't create an electrolyte reserve; it simply forces the body to excrete the excess, potentially affecting fluid balance negatively (GAIN Equine, 2024).

Additionally, some sources advise against giving electrolytes 24 hours before travel when water availability might be limited, as this could contribute to dehydration if the horse can't drink adequately during transport (Horse and Rider, 2025).

PRACTICAL GUIDELINES FOR OUR CONDITIONS
Applying research findings to practical management in Southern Africa requires considering our specific conditions: intense summer heat, often low humidity, and varying levels of work.

SUMMER MANAGEMENT
South African summers create conditions where even moderate work can produce significant sweating. During December through March, when temperatures regularly exceed 30°C, consider:

Providing free–choice salt year–round, with particular attention to ensuring adequate intake during hot months.
Supplementing electrolytes for any horse working more than 45 minutes in temperatures above 25°C.
Offering electrolyte water alongside plain water after work to let the horse choose.
Training horses during cooler months to accept electrolyte solutions, so they'll drink them readily when needed.

COMPETITION DAYS
For competition, a science–based approach based on current research would include:

One to two hours before competition, offer electrolytes in feed or dissolved in water (pre–loading).
Ensure the horse drinks plain water freely before the pre–load electrolytes.
Offer plain water immediately after competition.
Provide electrolytes in evening feed after competition.
Continue electrolyte supplementation for 24 to 48 hours after intense competition.

INDIVIDUAL VARIATION
Remember that horses vary significantly in their sweat rates and electrolyte losses. Some horses are visibly drenched after moderate work; others barely show moisture. Heavy sweaters likely need more aggressive supplementation. Learn to recognise your individual horse's patterns and adjust accordingly.

SIGNS OF ELECTROLYTE IMBALANCE
Recognising when your horse might be experiencing electrolyte depletion helps you respond appropriately. Warning signs include:

Reduced performance or unusual fatigue during work.
Decreased appetite, particularly for concentrate feed.
Muscle cramps or tremors.
Synchronous diaphragmatic flutter (thumps) – a sign of severe calcium and magnesium depletion.
Reduced water intake despite work or heat.
Decreased skin elasticity (though this indicates dehydration generally, not just electrolyte loss).
Prolonged elevated heart rate during recovery.

If you observe these signs, provide electrolytes and water immediately and consult your veterinarian if signs don't resolve quickly or worsen.

WHEN TO CONSULT YOUR VET
While routine electrolyte supplementation for horses in work can be managed by owners following evidence–based guidelines, certain situations warrant veterinary involvement:

Horses showing signs of severe dehydration or electrolyte imbalance (thumps, severe muscle cramping, cardiovascular compromise).
Horses with ongoing diarrhoea, as the electrolyte losses through diarrhoea can be massive and require veterinary assessment.
Horses with known conditions that affect electrolyte balance (kidney disease, certain endocrine disorders).
Uncertainty about whether your horse requires supplementation, as your vet can assess work level, sweat losses, and diet to provide tailored advice.
Horses competing at high levels like endurance horses, three–day event horses, and racehorses benefit from veterinary oversight of their electrolyte management protocols.

THE BOTTOM LINE: EVIDENCE-BASED RECOMMENDATIONS
Synthesising current research into practical guidance leads to these evidence–based recommendations:

Most horses don't need routine supplementation. Horses at maintenance or in light work get adequate electrolytes from forage plus free–choice salt. Don't supplement ‘just in case’ – it's unnecessary and potentially counterproductive.
Horses in moderate to intense work benefit measurably from supplementation. If your horse sweats noticeably during work, particularly in hot weather or during work lasting over an hour, electrolyte supplementation supports performance and recovery.
Pre–exercise loading appears more effective than post–exercise supplementation alone. Give electrolytes one to two hours before planned work, not just afterwards.
Choose supplements with appropriate ratios and minimal sugar. Look for products that mirror the composition of sweat, avoiding those with high dextrose content.
Water access is non–negotiable. Never give electrolytes without ensuring free access to fresh water. This is an absolute requirement, not a suggestion.
Train acceptance gradually. Horses can learn to drink electrolyte water, but training takes time. Start well before you need them to drink it at a competition.
More is not better. Follow product guidelines and don't overdose. Excessive supplementation causes problems rather than preventing them.

FINAL THOUGHTS
Electrolyte supplementation isn't a one–size–fits–all proposition. While research provides valuable guidance on general principles, your horse's individual circumstances – work level, sweat rate, climate, diet – determine whether and how much supplementation they need.

The evolution of research in this area demonstrates the value of updating practices as evidence accumulates. Pre–exercise loading, for example, is a relatively recent recommendation based on studies from the past few years. As our understanding continues to develop, recommendations may evolve further.

What remains constant is the fundamental principle: support your horse's physiological needs based on their actual work and environmental demands, not on marketing claims or tradition. Observe your horse closely, understand the evidence behind supplementation, provide plain salt year–round, and supplement strategically when work intensity and environmental conditions warrant it.

In summary, when done thoughtfully and appropriately, based on science rather than guesswork, electrolyte supplementation is a valuable tool for supporting equine athletes.

REFERENCES
GAIN Equine Nutrition. (2024). What are electrolytes and when should I supplement? https://www.gainanimalnutrition.com/equine/what-are-electrolytes-when-should-i-supplement/ • Hartog Lucerne. (2024). Electrolytes for horses: when should you supplement? https://hartog.eu/en/articles/electrolytes-for-horses-when-do-you-supplement/ • Holbrook, T.C., Simmons, R.D., Payton, M.E., & MacAllister, C.G. (2005). Effect of repeated oral administration of hypertonic electrolyte solution on equine gastric mucosa. Equine Veterinary Journal, 37(6), 501-504. • Horse and Rider. (2025). Electrolyte Supplementation. https://horseandrider.com/horse-health-care/electrolyte-supplementation/ • Integrity Horse Feed. (2025). Electrolytes for horses: when and how to supplement. https://integrityhorsefeed.com/bray-electrolyte-supplementation-horses/ • Kentucky Equine Research. (2025). Electrolytes and muscle function in horses: essentially linked. https://ker.com/equinews/electrolytes-and-muscle-function-in-horses-essentially-linked/ • Lindinger, M.I. (2022). Oral electrolyte and water supplementation in horses. Veterinary Sciences, 9(11), 626. https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci9110626 • Lindinger, M.I., & Ecker, G.L. (2013). Gastric emptying, intestinal absorption of electrolytes and exercise performance in electrolyte-supplemented horses. Experimental Physiology, 98(1), 193-206. • Mad Barn. (2022). Best electrolyte supplements for horses: a how-to guide. https://madbarn.com/electrolytes-for-horses/ • McCutcheon, J.L., & Geor, R.J. (1996). Sweat fluid and ion losses in horses during training and competition in cool vs. hot ambient conditions: Implications for ion supplementation. Equine Veterinary Journal, 28, 54-62. • Redmond Equine. (2024). Salt vs. electrolytes for horses: when to feed each and why. https://blog.redmondequine.com/should-i-give-my-horse-salt-or-electrolytes • Walker, W., Callan, R.J., Hill, A.E., & Tisher, C. (2005). Effects of oral powder electrolyte administration on packed cell volume, plasma chemistry parameters, and incidence of colic in horses participating in a 6-day 162-km trail ride. Canadian Veterinary Journal, 46(12), 1077-1082. • Waller, A.P., & Lindinger, M.I. (2021). Preloading large volume oral electrolytes: tracing fluid and ion fluxes in horses during rest, exercise and recovery. Journal of Physiology, 599(16), 3879-3896. • Zeyner, A., et al. (2017). [As cited in Kentucky Equine Research, 2025]

Summer skin issues

Prevention and treatment of the most common seasonal conditions

Summer brings longer days, warmer weather, and, unfortunately for many horses, a host of skin problems. The combination of heat, humidity, increased insect activity, and intense UV radiation creates perfect conditions for various dermatological issues. From the irritating to the seriously debilitating, summer skin conditions can significantly impact your horse's comfort, performance, and overall well–being.

The good news is that most summer skin issues are preventable with proper management, and those that do occur are treatable when caught early. Understanding what you're dealing with, why it happens, and how to respond effectively can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a season–long battle. This guide explores the most common summer skin conditions affecting horses in Southern Africa and provides practical strategies for prevention and treatment.

RAIN SCALD: THE MISNAMED SUMMER MENACE
Despite its name suggesting an association with rain, rain scald (also known as rain rot or dermatophilosis) is frequently seen during hot, humid summer weather in South Africa. This bacterial skin infection causes crusty scabs and hair loss, typically starting along the back and rump but potentially spreading to cover large areas of the body.

WHAT CAUSES RAIN SCALD
Rain scald is caused by the bacterium Dermatophilus congolensis, which lives dormant on the skin and in the environment. When conditions are right – typically warm, humid weather combined with moisture on the skin – the bacteria activate and penetrate the skin barrier, causing infection. The bacteria thrive under scabs, creating characteristic crusty lesions.

Common triggers include persistent sweating in hot weather, horses standing in wet paddocks or under leaking shelter roofs, and inadequate drying after bathing. Horses with compromised immune systems, those experiencing stress, or animals with existing skin damage are more susceptible. Interestingly, rain scald can occur even in dry weather if horses are sweating heavily and not drying properly.

RECOGNISING RAIN SCALD
Early rain scald appears as small bumps or raised areas in the coat. As it progresses, thick scabs form, often described as paintbrush–like because tufts of hair stick up through the crusts. When you lift or remove these scabs (which may be painful for the horse), you'll find moist, inflamed skin underneath, sometimes with a greenish discharge. The affected hair typically comes away with the scab.

The pattern of lesions often follows areas where water runs down the body, for example, along the back, croup, and sometimes down the legs. In severe cases, lesions can spread to cover the entire body. Some horses experience significant discomfort, becoming sensitive to touch or grooming in affected areas.

TREATMENT PROTOCOL
Treating rain scald requires diligence and patience. The basic approach involves removing crusts, keeping the area clean and dry, and allowing the skin to heal. Here's an effective treatment protocol:

Initial cleaning: Gently remove scabs by first softening them. Never pick at dry scabs; this is painful and can damage healthy skin. Instead, use a mild antimicrobial shampoo (such as chlorhexidine or betadine shampoo) and warm water to soften and lift crusts. Work in sections, allowing the shampoo to sit for 10 to 15 minutes before gently working scabs free with your fingers or a soft brush.

Thorough drying: This is absolutely critical. Pat the area dry with clean towels, then allow it to air–dry completely. In humid conditions, consider using fans to speed the drying process. The bacteria cannot survive in dry conditions, so keeping the area dry is half the battle.

Topical treatment: Once clean and completely dry, apply an antibacterial treatment. Options include dilute betadine solution, chlorhexidine solution, or commercial rain scald treatments. Some veterinarians recommend lime sulphur dips for extensive cases. Whatever product you use, ensure the area is dry before application.

Daily maintenance: Continue cleaning and treating affected areas daily until healing is complete. This typically takes seven to fourteen days for mild cases but can take several weeks for severe infections. Don't stop treatment too early; lesions may look healed but bacteria can persist under forming scabs.

Severe cases: Extensive rain scald or cases that don't respond to topical treatment within a week should be seen by a veterinarian. Systemic antibiotics may be necessary, particularly if your horse shows signs of systemic illness (fever, lethargy, loss of appetite) or if lesions are deep or spreading rapidly.

Prevention strategies
Preventing rain scald is far easier than treating it. Focus on keeping your horse's skin dry:

After exercise, ensure horses are completely dry before turning out or stabling. In humid weather, use towels and fans to speed drying.
Provide adequate shelter that doesn't leak. Check roof integrity before summer.
Avoid bathing unless necessary. When you must bathe, ensure thorough drying afterwards.
Improve paddock drainage to prevent horses from standing in wet areas.
Don't use heavy, non–breathable rugs in summer; they trap moisture against the skin.
Maintain good general health and nutrition to support immune function.

SUNBURN: WHEN HORSES NEED SUNSCREEN
Many horse owners don't realise that horses can suffer significant sunburn, particularly on areas with pink skin and white hair. Southern Africa's intense UV radiation makes sunburn a genuine welfare concern during the summer months.

WHICH HORSES ARE AT RISK
Horses with unpigmented (pink) skin are highly susceptible to sunburn. This includes grey horses, those with extensive white markings (particularly on faces and legs), and pintos or paints. Areas of white hair with pink skin underneath offer virtually no protection from UV radiation. Common problem areas include white blazes on faces, pink muzzles and nostrils, and white–haired areas on bodies and legs.

Even horses with pigmented skin can burn in areas where hair is thin or sparse, such as muzzles, around eyes, and on inner thighs. Horses who have been clipped may be more susceptible until their coat regrows fully.

SIGNS OF SUNBURN
Initial sunburn appears as reddened, warm skin that's sensitive to touch. Affected horses may be head–shy if their face is burned or reluctant to be touched on burned areas. As sunburn progresses, the skin may become hot, swollen, and painful. Severe burns can result in blistering, oozing, and eventually peeling skin.

Chronic sun exposure without protection can lead to more serious issues. The skin becomes thickened, loses elasticity, and may develop scaly, crusty patches. Most concerning is that long–term sun damage increases the risk of squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer particularly common around the eyes, on the muzzles, and on the genitals of horses with pink skin.

Prevention is the only effective approach to sunburn – once skin is damaged, you can only manage the pain and wait for healing.

TREATING SUNBURN
For mild sunburn, gentle care is usually sufficient. Apply cool compresses to reduce heat and inflammation. Aloe vera gel (pure, without additives) can be soothing and may help with healing. Keep the horse out of direct sun until healing is complete; this usually means stable management during daylight hours.

More severe sunburn requires veterinary attention. Blistering, oozing, or signs of significant pain warrant professional assessment. Your veterinarian may prescribe anti–inflammatory medications, antibiotics if secondary infection develops, and specialised wound care products. Never apply petroleum–based products to sunburned skin (like Vaseline for example) as they trap heat and worsen the burn.

PREVENTION IS ESSENTIAL
Preventing sunburn requires a multi–faceted approach:

Provide adequate shade: This is the single most important protection. Horses need access to shade during peak UV hours (10am to 4pm). Ensure shade structures are large enough that all horses can shelter simultaneously.

Use fly masks with UV protection: Many fly masks now include UV–blocking fabric. These protect the horse’s face, which is particularly valuable for horses with white blazes or pink muzzles. It is important to ensure a proper fit, as rubbing will make any skin issues worse.

Consider UV–protective sheets: Lightweight sheets with UV protection are available and can protect body areas with white hair. These are particularly useful for horses with extensive white patches who must be out during the day.

Apply equine sunscreen: Horses need sunscreen on vulnerable areas. Use products specifically formulated for horses or human sunscreens that are safe if licked (zinc oxide–based products work well). Apply the sunscreen to pink muzzles, white facial markings, and any other areas with pink skin. Reapply every few hours, more frequently if the horse is sweating heavily. Make application part of your daily routine for susceptible horses.

Adjust turnout times: In areas where AHS isn't less of a concern (or during low–risk seasons), consider turning highly susceptible horses out at night and stabling during peak UV hours. Where AHS risk exists, prioritise disease prevention and focus on intensive shade and sunscreen use during day turnout.

Monitor for early changes: Check pink–skinned areas daily. Catch redness early and increase protection before the burn develops.

INSECT HYPERSENSITIVITY: WHEN BITES BECOME A CRISIS
Some horses develop allergic reactions to insect bites, creating skin conditions far more severe than simple irritation. The most significant of these is sweet itch, but other insect hypersensitivities also cause considerable distress.

SWEET ITCH (SUMMER SEASONAL RECURRENT DERMATITIS)
Sweet itch is an allergic reaction to the saliva of Culicoides midges (the same insects that transmit African Horse Sickness). Affected horses develop intense, persistent itching primarily along the mane and tail, though lesions can extend to the face, ears, belly, and legs. This isn't simply annoying – it's genuinely distressing for affected horses and can become a welfare issue if not properly managed.

Why it happens: Sweet itch is a Type I hypersensitivity reaction. Susceptible horses' immune systems overreact to proteins in midge saliva, triggering an intense inflammatory response. The condition typically worsens with repeated exposure so horses often become more sensitive over successive summers. There's also a genetic component, as certain breeds and bloodlines show a higher incidence.

Clinical signs: Affected horses rub incessantly at mane, tail, face, and other affected areas. The rubbing leads to hair loss, broken skin, thickened skin, and sometimes secondary infections. In severe cases, horses rub themselves raw, creating large weeping wounds. The tail often becomes completely bald and the mane is reduced to short, broken stubs. Horses may be visibly distressed, constantly seeking objects to rub against, stamping, and exhibiting behavioural changes.

MANAGING SWEET ITCH
Sweet itch cannot be cured, but it can be effectively managed with a comprehensive approach:

Minimise midge exposure: This is the cornerstone of management. Since Culicoides midges are most active at dawn and dusk, stable horses during these high–risk periods. It is also advised to use fans in stables, as midges are weak fliers and can't navigate moving air. Closing stable doors and windows with fine mesh screening during high–risk times is also a good option if using a fan.

Sweet itch management requires commitment – half measures
rarely provide adequate relief.

Complete body coverage: Purpose–made sweet itch rugs that cover the horse from ears to tail, including neck and belly, provide physical barrier protection. These must be worn whenever horses are outside, but especially during midge–active periods. The rugs need to fit extremely well, as any gaps allow midges access. Remove and check daily for any rubs or issues.

Insect repellents: Apply insect repellent to any exposed areas (legs, face) before turnout. Products containing permethrin or DEET tend to be most effective. Reapply frequently, particularly after sweating. Some owners find that applying repellent under rugs at rug seams helps prevent midges from accessing skin through small gaps.

Manage the itch: Antihistamines and corticosteroids can help control the allergic response. These require a veterinary prescription and oversight. For severe cases, veterinarians may recommend allergy desensitisation protocols, though these are time–consuming and don't work for all horses. Topical anti–itch preparations can provide temporary relief but don't address the underlying problem.

Treat secondary issues: Damaged skin is prone to secondary bacterial or fungal infections. Keep rubbed areas clean. Apply wound treatments to broken skin. If you notice signs of infection (heat, swelling, discharge), seek veterinary attention promptly.

Environmental management: Culicoides breed in wet, muddy areas. Improve paddock drainage, fill in boggy areas, and avoid turning sweet itch horses out in paddocks near water sources or manure piles where midge populations are highest.

OTHER INSECT HYPERSENSITIVITIES
While sweet itch is the most recognised insect allergy, horses can develop hypersensitivity to other biting insects:

Stable fly hypersensitivity: Stable flies bite legs and belly, causing welts and significant irritation. Hypersensitive horses develop urticaria (hives) or more severe skin reactions. Management focuses on comprehensive fly control, the use of repellents, and, potentially, fly boots or belly protection.

Black fly dermatitis: Black flies bite ear tips and along the ventral midline, causing crusty, bleeding lesions. These flies are active during daylight, particularly in areas near running water. Protection involves repellents, ear covers on fly masks, and avoiding turnout near waterways during peak fly season.

Mosquito hypersensitivity: Less common, but it can occur. Results in raised welts at bite sites, sometimes with significant swelling. Management involves mosquito control and the use of repellent, particularly during evening hours when mosquitoes are most active.

OTHER COMMON SUMMER SKIN ISSUES
Several other skin conditions appear more frequently during summer months:

RINGWORM
Despite its name, ringworm is a fungal infection, not a parasitic worm. It causes circular patches of hair loss with scaly, crusty skin. Ringworm is highly contagious between horses and can spread to humans. It thrives in warm, humid conditions, exactly what summer provides.

Treatment requires antifungal shampoos or topical treatments. Isolate affected horses to prevent spread. Thoroughly disinfect all tack, grooming equipment, and stable areas. Treatment typically takes two to four weeks. If you suspect ringworm, consult your veterinarian for confirmation and appropriate treatment, as various skin conditions can mimic the appearance of ringworm.

VENTRAL MIDLINE DERMATITIS
Horn flies and other biting insects feeding along the belly create crusty, scabby lesions. This condition is both uncomfortable and difficult to resolve without comprehensive fly control. Affected horses need fly sheets with full belly coverage, frequent application of repellent to the affected area, and excellent stable hygiene to reduce fly populations. Secondary bacterial infections are common, requiring veterinary treatment.

CONTACT DERMATITIS
Summer often means increased use of fly sprays, shampoos, and other topical products – any of which can cause allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive horses. Signs include redness, swelling, hives, or hair loss in areas where products were applied. Treatment involves immediately discontinuing the offending product and treating symptomatically with cool compresses and potentially veterinary–prescribed anti–inflammatory medications. Switch to hypoallergenic products for sensitive horses.

PHOTOSENSITISATION
Photosensitisation occurs when certain compounds in the bloodstream make skin hypersensitive to UV light. This can result from eating certain plants, liver disease, or reactions to some medications. Affected horses develop severe sunburn–like lesions on unpigmented skin, even with minimal sun exposure. This is a veterinary emergency as affected horses need immediate veterinary care, removal from sunlight, and treatment of the underlying cause.

GENERAL SKIN HEALTH
While specific conditions require targeted approaches, several general principles support skin health during summer:

NUTRITION AND SKIN HEALTH
Healthy skin starts from within. Ensure your horse receives adequate protein, essential fatty acids (particularly omega–3s), vitamins A and E, and minerals like zinc and copper. Many horses benefit from specific skin and coat supplements during summer months, though these should complement, not replace, a balanced diet. Consult your vet or equine nutritionist about appropriate supplementation for your horse's needs.

GROOMING PRACTICES
Regular grooming helps maintain skin health by removing dirt, sweat, and dead skin cells. Daily grooming also allows early detection of skin issues before they become serious problems. However, avoid over–bathing, as frequent shampooing strips natural oils that protect skin. When you do bathe, use mild, equine–specific shampoos and ensure thorough rinsing and drying.

ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE
Clean, dry living conditions prevent many skin problems. Clean stables daily, ensure bedding stays dry, and provide adequate ventilation. Keep paddocks well–drained and avoid overcrowding, which increases moisture and contamination. Clean and disinfect tack and grooming equipment regularly to prevent the spread of skin infections between horses.

MONITOR AND ACT EARLY
Most skin conditions are easier to treat when caught early. Make systematic skin checks part of your daily routine. Run your hands over your horse's entire body, checking for bumps, scabs, areas of heat, or hair loss. Note any changes in how your horse responds to grooming or touch. If you find something unusual, don't wait to see if it resolves – address it promptly or seek veterinary advice.

WHEN TO CALL YOUR VET
While many minor skin issues can be managed at home, certain situations require professional veterinary assessment:

Rapidly spreading lesions or conditions that worsen despite home treatment
Signs of systemic illness accompanying skin problems (fever, lethargy, loss of appetite)
Deep wounds, large areas of raw skin, or significant oozing or bleeding
Sudden onset of severe hives or swelling that could indicate anaphylaxis
Suspected photosensitisation
Severe sunburn with blistering
Skin conditions affecting the eyes, muzzle, or other mucous membranes
Any skin problem causing significant pain or distress
Uncertainty about diagnosis, as many skin conditions look similar but require different treatments

Don't hesitate to call your vet even if you're unsure whether the problem warrants professional attention. A quick phone consultation can often provide reassurance or guidance on home management, and early professional involvement can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.

FINAL THOUGHTS
Summer skin issues are frustrating, often uncomfortable for horses, and sometimes expensive to treat. But most are preventable with good management practices. The effort you invest in prevention – providing shade, managing insects, maintaining clean living conditions, supporting skin health through nutrition, and monitoring your horses closely – pays dividends in avoiding the time, expense, and distress of treating established skin problems.

For horses prone to specific conditions like sweet itch or sunburn, accept that management will be ongoing. These aren't problems you solve once; they require consistent, season–long attention. But with the right approach, even sensitive horses can remain comfortable throughout summer.

And finally, it’s worth remembering that your horse's skin is their first line of defence against the environment. Healthy skin is resilient skin. By supporting skin health through all the strategies discussed – from basic cleanliness to targeted protection against specific threats – you're not just preventing discomfort, you're fundamentally supporting your horse's overall health and well–being.

Mare
families that
made the
sport

Carthina Z – The mare who built a dynasty

In the modern sporthorse world, certain names echo far beyond the arena. They appear again and again in pedigrees, on start lists, and in the background of championship results. One such name is Carthina Z, a mare whose influence has quietly but profoundly shaped the landscape of international showjumping.

She was not the loudest, flashiest, or most publicly celebrated of her generation. She never accumulated millions in prize money or featured on an Olympic podium. Yet few mares have left a more enduring genetic legacy.

Carthina Z represents a different kind of greatness – the quiet, generational influence of an exceptional foundation mare. This is the story not of spectacular victories, but of something more lasting: a mare of substance who, through consistency, quality, and the power of her bloodline, built a dynasty that continues to dominate modern showjumping.

BREEDING AND EARLY PROMISE
THE ZANGERSHEIDE FOUNDATION
Carthina Z was foaled in 1990 at Zangersheide, the Belgian stud that has become synonymous with excellence in sporthorse breeding. Founded by Léon Melchior, Zangersheide built its reputation not on preserving tradition but on results – breeding horses that could win at the highest levels of international competition.

When Melchior bred the mare Tanagra 'S' van het Darohof to his stallion Carthago Z, he was combining bloodlines with proven performance records:

Sire: Carthago Z
Carthago Z, himself a son of Capitol I, would become one of the most influential sires in modern showjumping history. His offspring combined power with remarkable technique, and his genetic influence continues to permeate top–level pedigrees worldwide. Carthago Z proved himself both in competition and at stud, producing numerous Grand Prix winners and Olympic competitors.

His bloodline carried the scope, carefulness, and mental strength that define successful jumping horses. These qualities, particularly the carefulness that keeps rails up, would prove crucial to Carthina Z's breeding success.

Dam: Tanagra 'S' van het Darohof
By Lys de Darmen, Tanagra brought her own proven bloodlines to the pairing. The Darmen horses were known for their jumping ability and soundness. Tanagra herself came from a productive maternal line, meaning Carthina Z inherited quality from both sides of her pedigree.

This combination of Carthago Z's power and technique and Tanagra's proven maternal genetics, created something special in Carthina Z, though it would take years for the full extent of that quality to become apparent.

EARLY LIFE
From birth, Carthina Z displayed the physical qualities breeders seek: good bone, correct conformation, natural balance, and intelligence. She was not flashy or extreme in type but possessed the substance and quality that indicate a horse capable of serious athletic work.

As she matured, these qualities became more pronounced. She developed into a mare of approximately 16.2 hands, with the strength to carry weight, the scope to clear substantial fences, and the proportions that suggest both power and agility.

Her temperament, too, showed the characteristics that would later prove essential to her breeding success: intelligence without anxiety, boldness without recklessness, and a steady, workmanlike attitude toward her job.

COMPETITION CAREER
Carthina Z did compete, though her competitive career never reached the championship levels that some of her offspring would later achieve. She jumped at national and lower international levels, proving her ability and soundness without becoming a household name in the sport.

This modest competition career, however, was not a failure, as it proved she could jump, proved she was sound and proved she had the mental strength to compete. For breeding purposes, this was sufficient. She had demonstrated quality through performance.

Importantly, her competition work revealed the qualities she would pass to her offspring: natural carefulness over fences, good technique, sound constitution, and trainable temperament. These attributes, confirmed through performance rather than just pedigree, made her valuable as a breeding prospect.

BREEDING CAREER
After her competitive career, Carthina Z entered the breeding programme at Zangersheide.

The first foals revealed immediately that something special was happening. Carthina Z was not producing ordinary offspring. Each foal carried an unmistakable quality with correct conformation, natural movement, and that intangible presence that marks horses destined for success.

More importantly, as her offspring matured and entered training, they demonstrated not just physical talent but mental qualities that many breeding stallions fail to consistently transmit. Carthina Z's progeny were trainable, brave, and mentally strong – qualities as valuable as physical ability at elite levels.

What distinguished Carthina Z as a broodmare was not one exceptional foal but consistency. Year after year, regardless of which stallion she was bred to, she produced offspring of remarkable quality.

This consistency revealed that Carthina Z was prepotent – able to stamp her genetic signature on her offspring despite the influence of different sires. Prepotency is the hallmark of true foundation mares, the quality that allows them to establish families rather than just produce individuals.

THE MOST FAMOUS OFFSPRING
EMERALD VAN'T RUYTERSHOF
If Carthina Z needed a single offspring to cement her legacy, Emerald van 't Ruytershof would be sufficient. Foaled in 2000, by the influential stallion Diamant de Semilly, Emerald inherited the best of both parents – his sire's power and athleticism combined with Carthina Z's carefulness and mental strength.

Emerald was the Reserve World Champion Young Horses (2010), second in the World Cup Finals (Gothenburg 2016), a finalist at the Rio Olympics and winner of multiple Grand Prix and Nations’ Cups such as Aachen, Rotterdam, Bordeaux, and Chantilly with rider Harrie Smolders.

But Emerald's significance extends far beyond his own competitive achievements. Retired to stud, he has become one of the most sought–after stallions in modern breeding. His offspring are competing successfully at the international level, and his semen commands premium prices from breeders worldwide.

Through Emerald, Carthina Z's influence has multiplied exponentially. Every foal by Emerald carries Carthina blood, spreading her genetic legacy across continents and breeding programmes. When Emerald offspring succeed, and they do, regularly, they validate not just his quality but hers.

Emerald represents the perfect expression of what Carthina Z could produce: an athlete capable of championship performance who also possesses the genetic strength to become an influential sire.

DIAMANTHINA VAN DE RUYTERSHOF
While Emerald brought Carthina Z recognition through Olympic–level success, his full sister, Diamanthina van de Ruytershof, proved the consistency of quality across Carthina's offspring through her own impressive competitive career. Ridden by Belgian rider Constant van Paesschen, Diamanthina competed successfully at 1.60m level and produced several top showjumpers, and licensed stallions like Le Blue Diamond van't Ruytershof and Herald van't Ruytershof.

ILUSIONATA VAN'T MEULENHOF
Among Carthina Z's daughters, Ilusionata van 't Meulenhof (by Lord Z) stands out as a competitive powerhouse in her own right. Competing at the highest levels of international showjumping – 1.70m Grand Prix classes – Ilusionata proved that Carthina's offspring could reach the absolute pinnacle of the sport.

Ridden by top international riders including Niels Bruynseels and William Whitaker, Ilusionata demonstrated the complete package that defines elite showjumpers: the scope to clear 1.70m courses, the carefulness to navigate technical tracks, the mental strength to perform under championship pressure, and the soundness to sustain a long career at the top.

PEPITA VAN'T MEULENHOF BR
Carthina Z's daughter Pepita van 't Meulenhof BR (by El Torreo de Muze) further demonstrates the consistency of competitive quality across Carthina's offspring. Like her half–sister Diamanthina, Pepita competes successfully at 1.60m level with Daniel Deusser.

NIXON VAN 'T MEULENHOF
Carthina Z's influence continues to expand through her son Nixon van 't Meulenhof, a promising Belgian stallion who represents the next chapter in her genetic legacy. As a stallion beginning his breeding career, Nixon carries the responsibility of perpetuating and expanding Carthina's influence. Early indications suggest he inherited his dam's prepotency with his first foals showing the quality, correctness, and type that characterise Carthina bloodlines.

What makes Nixon particularly significant for Carthina's legacy is timing. While Emerald is an established, proven sire with offspring competing internationally, Nixon represents the future. As his offspring mature and enter competition over the coming years, they will demonstrate whether Carthina's genetic strength transmits through multiple generations of male offspring.

For Belgian breeding in particular, Nixon offers an opportunity to concentrate Carthina genetics within domestic programmes. His success at stud will further validate her value as a foundation mare and potentially introduce her bloodlines to new breeding combinations.

Nixon's breeding career is still developing, but his potential to spread Carthina Z's influence to a new generation of sporthorses makes him an important piece of her ongoing legacy.

HER GENETIC LEGACY
Study the pedigrees of horses competing at any major international show, and Carthina Z's name appears with striking frequency.

Sometimes she appears once in a pedigree, but often she appears multiple times – through different offspring, different generations, using deliberate linebreeding to concentrate her genetics.

This ubiquity in elite pedigrees provides an objective measurement of her influence. Carthina Z bloodlines consistently produce horses that can compete at the highest levels, which is why breeders continue seeking them.

FINAL THOUGHTS
Carthina Z produced Olympic medalists, influential sires, and successful broodmares, and through her descendants, she shapes modern showjumping bloodlines on every continent. The commercial value and high demand for Carthina Z's bloodline, including embryos and descendants of her daughters, is a testament to her exceptional contribution to the world of showjumping breeding.

In the history of showjumping, Carthina Z will never be as famous as the horses who won Olympic gold or World Cup finals, but, like the other mares in this series, her influence may ultimately prove more significant than any individual champion.

TEXT: Kim Dale, Founder of Unbridled Marketing

From idea
to reality

Is your horse business idea actually viable?

If you have spent any time around horses, you have probably had a business idea at some point. A product you wish existed. A service you think could be done better. A small side project that keeps popping into your head between rides.

Most successful horse businesses start exactly that way, with someone spotting a gap or thinking, “Surely there is a better way to do this.” The difference between ideas that stay ideas and those that turn into something real is not creativity or confidence. It is preparation.

Before you invest time, money and precious emotional energy into launching, a bit of upfront research can give you clarity, direction and confidence. Not to poke holes in your idea, but to help you shape it properly.

COMPETITION IS NOT A BAD THING
One of the first worries I hear is, “But there are already so many businesses doing something similar.”

That is not necessarily a problem. In fact, it can be a positive sign.

Competition usually means there is demand. People are already spending money in this space. Your goal is not to reinvent the wheel, but to understand what is out there and decide how you can do it differently and how you can do it better.

Researching competitors helps you answer useful questions. What do they charge? What do customers praise them for? What do they complain about? What feels missing?

Those answers are often where your opportunity lies.

That said, a lack of competition does not automatically mean there is no demand. Sometimes it simply means no one has thought to offer it yet, or no one has packaged it in a way that makes sense for this market. Being first can be a great place to be, but it comes with its own responsibility. When you are introducing something new, your marketing has to do more than sell. It has to educate. You may need to spend more time explaining the problem, the solution, and why it matters before people are ready to buy. Research is what helps you tell the difference between a genuinely untapped opportunity and an idea the market is not ready for yet.

SENSE CHECK ONE: WHO IS THIS ACTUALLY FOR?
Having a clear audience makes everything else easier.

I’m going to hold your hand when I say this: “horse people” is NOT a clear audience breakdown.

As always, the devil is in the detail. Is it for competitive riders, leisure riders, yard owners, horse moms, professionals, or a very particular discipline? If it is more broadly applicable, think about location, income and other factors that sets your audience apart.

The clearer you are on who you are serving, the easier it becomes to design your product, price it correctly and speak their language. It also helps you avoid trying to please everyone, which rarely works.

SENSE CHECK TWO: WHAT DO THE NUMBERS LOOK LIKE
This does not need to be complicated or intimidating.

Start by looking at what similar products or services cost in the market. This gives you a realistic sense of what customers are used to paying. From there, work out your own costs and the time involved, then see where your pricing might sit.

This exercise is not about copying others. It is about understanding the landscape so you can position yourself confidently. Sometimes the opportunity is to be more premium. Sometimes it is to be more accessible. The key is knowing which is right for you, your audience and your offering.

SENSE CHECK THREE: HOW CAN YOU BE DIFFERENT IN A MEANINGFUL WAY?
Being different does not have to mean being revolutionary.

Sometimes it is better service. Faster turnaround. Clearer communication. A more personal experience. Sometimes it is tailoring an existing idea to suit South African conditions or a specific niche within the market.

Research helps you spot these opportunities. It shows you where expectations are not being met and where you can step in with a stronger offer.

Maybe your difference is simply in how you behave and engage with your audience. Perhaps fresh, funky branding will get you noticed among products that seem very dated and overly clinical.

VIABILITY COMES FROM CLARITY
Most horse business ideas are not doomed by competition or market size. They struggle because they are launched without enough information.

Research gives you clarity. Clarity gives you confidence. And confidence shows in everything from pricing to marketing to customer experience. You know what else all this research and new found information does? It informs your strategy. We will get to the strategy a little later in the series. Trust me, by the end of this series, you will be as excited about strategy as I am.

So, if you have an idea that keeps coming back to you, it is probably worth exploring. Just make sure you take the time to understand the landscape before you leap.

It is not just the idea that decides whether it will work or not. Done well, research and preparation is what turns a good idea into a viable business.

WELCOME TO LOCAL BUSINESS LAUNCHPAD

YOUR EQUESTRIAN QUESTIONS ANSWERED

CRITICAL CARE COVER
Critical Care is one of the most important risks to consider when selecting policies to cover veterinary expenses, as these policies respond to costly lifesaving in-hospital procedures. It is vital to understand both the policy’s monetary limit and the number of hospital days covered, as these vary between insurers.

Selecting the highest sum insured is recommended, as claims of this nature frequently approach the maximum limits offered by insurers. Different claims draw from your cover in different ways. Surgical claims tend to reach the policy’s financial limit quickly, whereas long-running non-surgical issues, like infections, use funds more slowly – making hospital day limits more important.

It is vital to understand that if your policy includes a limit of R200,000 and 10 hospital days, your claim will be paid until either the full amount or hospital-day limit is reached - whichever comes first.

Equally important to understand is whether the Critical Care benefit resets for each unrelated event or whether it only pays out for a limited number of events within the policy period.

Note: Not all hospital admittance qualifies as Critical Care. This policy only responds to life-saving treatment.

BEYOND CRITICAL CARE: COMPARING BROADER VETERINARY EXPENSE POLICIES
When looking for wider cover that falls outside Critical Care events, owners must consider a more complex set of parameters including:

Waiting periods
Death benefits
Excesses
Pre-existing conditions
Benefit limits
Preventative or chronic care
Travel costs
How claims are processed
Aggregates
Age limits

These factors differ significantly across insurers, which is why comparing them before committing is essential.

Understanding the policy’s overall aggregate limit is important as this represents the maximum amount the insurer will pay for ALL covered losses during a policy period, typically one year. This means that even if individual benefits have their own limits, the policy will never pay more than the overall aggregate.

Within the overall aggregate, most policies also include benefit-specific limits. These define how much can be claimed under each category for the entire policy year, rather than per individual claim. After a benefit limit is exhausted, additional claims under that category will not be covered until renewal, and in some cases, the insurer may also choose to exclude the condition for future periods or permanently. Each insurer has its own way of handling claims and underwriting.

Policies with numerous sub-limits can become restrictive, particularly when a horse requires extensive diagnostics, prolonged treatment, or experiences multiple similar events in a single year that quickly exhaust specific benefits.

Understanding how claims are processed and what may happen after a claim is an essential part of choosing the right veterinary expense policy. Being aware of how these decisions are made will help you choose a policy that aligns with your expectations and your horse's long-term needs.

WHEN CHOOSING AN INSURER THINK LONG TERM
Insurers vary significantly in how they apply aggregates, benefit limits, and exclusions. After a major claim, switching insurers can become challenging - and in some cases, horses may even become uninsurable. That’s why it’s important to choose an insurer who will support you for the long term.

TAKE-HOME POINTS

Do not make decisions solely on price
Read your policy wording carefully
Ask questions about anything unclear

Equine Veterinary Expense policies in South Africa offer substantial protection when accidents, illness, or emergencies occur. While coverage can be generous, owners must understand the limitations, exclusions and conditions that determine how and when claims are paid. When you know what to expect, the claims experience is smoother, and you can focus on what matters most - your horse.

SOUTH AFRICA’S PREMIER EQUESTRIAN MAGAZINE

DIGITAL ISSUE 173C | 2026

Lizzie and the HQ team xxx

DIGITAL ISSUE 173C | 2026

CONTENTS

A new era for

Stellenbosch District Riding Club

photography: Caroline Hartley Photography @caroline.hartley105

photography: Caroline Hartley Photography @caroline.hartley105

photography: Caroline Hartley Photography @caroline.hartley105

photography: Caroline Hartley Photography @caroline.hartley105

photography: Caroline Hartley Photography @caroline.hartley105

photography: Fiona Browne Photography @fionabrownephotography

photography: Fiona Browne Photography @fionabrownephotography

Flatwork foundations

Building better transitions

A transition is only as good as the half–halt that precedes it.

Position first, ask second.A correctly positioned horse will canter with minimal aid.

TEXT: Lara Ellwood of Insight Equine

Setting the tone in the warm-up arena

The real purpose of the warm-up

MEET

Gabrielle Kannemeyer

HQ meets the photographer document equestrian culture across South Africa

TEXT: Alejandra González

Changing the

language of riding

How awareness, biomechanics, and horsemanship are reshaping rider education

Shade and shelter

Keeping horses cool in hot weather

Electrolytes explained

When and how to supplement

Summer skin issues

Prevention and treatment of the most common seasonal conditions

Prevention is the only effective approach to sunburn – once skin is damaged, you can only manage the pain and wait for healing.

Sweet itch management requires commitment – half measuresrarely provide adequate relief.

Mare families that made the sport

Carthina Z – The mare who built a dynasty

TEXT: Kim Dale, Founder of Unbridled Marketing

From idea to reality

Is your horse business idea actually viable?

YOUR EQUESTRIAN QUESTIONS ANSWERED

What should you consider when choosing an equine Veterinary Expense Policy?

HQ Newsletter

Lizzie and
the HQ team xxx

photography: Caroline Hartley Photography
@caroline.hartley105

photography: Caroline Hartley Photography
@caroline.hartley105

photography: Caroline Hartley Photography
@caroline.hartley105

photography: Caroline Hartley Photography
@caroline.hartley105

photography: Caroline Hartley Photography
@caroline.hartley105

photography: Fiona Browne Photography
@fionabrownephotography

photography: Fiona Browne Photography
@fionabrownephotography

Position first, ask second.
A correctly positioned horse will canter with minimal aid.

Setting the
tone in the
warm-up arena

Sweet itch management requires commitment – half measures
rarely provide adequate relief.

Mare
families that
made the
sport

From idea
to reality