ASKHQ: WHAT ARE THE SIGNS MY HORSE NEEDS THE DENTIST?

Q: What are the signs I need to call a dentist for my horse? A: Ideally, your horse’s teeth should be checked by a professional at least once a year and, better yet, every six months. In between these appointments, the following signs signify you might need the dentist sooner than your next scheduled appointment: …

BylizzieAugust 4, 20250Comments

Horse Channel

WINTER WEIGHT LOSS

Keeping condition in the cold Loss of weight in winter is a concern with many of our equines, especially those who are older or naturally leaner. The cold weather in winter increases energy demands on our horses, as they need to produce more body heat to keep themselves warm. On top of this, the amount…

BylizzieAugust 1, 20250Comments

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ASKHQ: ERGOTS

Q: What’s an ergot? A: Some horses have a small callous on the underside of their fetlock known as an ergot. These ergots might be on all four legs, a couple of legs or none at all. They vary in size and are often more prominent on horses with lots of feathers. It is thought…

BylizzieJuly 30, 20250Comments

Horse Channel

ARE YOU SPENDING WHERE IT COUNTS? A MID-YEAR FINANCIAL CHECK-IN FOR HORSE OWNERS

For horse owners, mid-year is a smart time to take stock — not just of training goals and competition plans, but of how (and where) you're spending your money. With feed costs rising, fuel impacting show budgets, and the ever-growing list of “must-have” supplements and gear, it’s easy to spend more than you realise without…

BylizzieJuly 19, 20250Comments

Horse Channel Horse Health

LUCERNE

Super forage or overrated? Lucerne (also known as alfalfa) has long enjoyed a reputation as a high-quality forage for performance horses. Rich in protein, energy, and calcium, it’s a favourite of many competitive yards and stud farms. But is lucerne really the super forage it's made out to be—or is it sometimes too much of…

BylizzieJuly 17, 20250Comments

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ASKHQ: FLOATING TROPHY

Q: What is a floating trophy? A: Floating trophies are trophies that are given out each year at an annual show. They must then be returned to the show holding body to be handed out to the next yearly recipient. Floating trophies are environmentally friendly; there is no need to buy a new trophy or award…

BylizzieJuly 7, 20250Comments

Horse Channel

THE MID-YEAR RESET – ASSESSING YOUR PROGRESS AT THE HALFWAY MARK

This weekend marks the halfway point of the year. Time management gurus suggest harnessing this opportunity to take stock of where you are, review your plans and progress and set new goals for the rest of the year. Quite simply, it’s a second chance at a restart. Re-evaluate By the time we get to the first…

BylizzieJune 24, 20250Comments

Horse Channel Horse Health

THE BIOMECHANICS OF COLLECTION

What really happens when a horse ‘engages’ Ask ten riders to define collection, and you may hear ten different answers: “The horse carries more weight behind,” “He lifts his shoulders,” “She sits more,” or “It’s self-carriage.” While these phrases capture aspects of the concept, true collection is rooted in biomechanics — and understanding what actually…

BylizzieJune 20, 20250Comments

Horse Channel Horse Health

BLANKETING IN SOUTH AFRICA

In the temperate climates of Southern Africa, the practice of blanketing horses during the cooler months is a topic of ongoing discussion among equine professionals and enthusiasts alike. While blanketing can offer protection against the elements, improper use may lead to adverse health effects. Understanding when and how to blanket is essential for optimal equine…

BylizzieJune 20, 20250Comments

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ASKHQ: BACKING

Q: What’s the ideal age to start backing a horse? A: There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but most sporthorses are backed between the ages of four and five. Physically, horses' bones—especially the spine—continue developing until around six, and excessive strain too early can lead to long-term soundness issues. However, a well-handled, mentally mature horse can begin light groundwork…

BylizzieJune 16, 20250Comments

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