Q: Is it enough to just give my horse a salt block or lick? A: Many people rely on salt blocks to supply their horse's daily salt requirements. However, while some horses have a craving for sodium, which will cause them to use a block, few horses lick a block enough to consume their daily salt…
Q: How do I use mirrors to improve my flatwork? A: Mirrors are handy and can act like your eyes on the ground to not only see what your horse is doing but also to correct yourself. You can use them in so many different ways, and they can help you to see what you are…
Q: What is the difference between showerproof, waterproof and water-resistant? A: Whether you are looking to protect your horse or yourself from wet weather, here is the breakdown of what these three terms mean: Showerproof can keep your horse dry in light rain. The outer material of the item will repel water and feel similar to waterproof, but…
Text: Shelley Wolhuter Horses are designed to move. In fact, when it comes to horses, movement really is medicine. In the wild, horses have been known to cover an average of 40km daily. Different terrains and climates would affect this average, but regardless, that distance is still rather impressive! Living as Mother Nature intended offers certain…
To a more natural life Text: Christine Pinna Thoroughbreds are notorious for having hoof issues, requiring stables, blankets and plenty of concentrates to maintain their condition. But is this really the way it has to be? Background It is important to understand the lifestyle your newly purchased Thoroughbred has lived up until the point that he became…
Recognising signs of pain in your horse As devoted horse owners, we share a special bond with our equine companions. This makes us the best placed to notice when our horses are unhappy. Yet, deciphering the subtle language horses use to communicate their discomfort or pain is not always easy, even when we know our…
Q: Is smutsfinger a good option for horses? A: Smutsfinger grass (Digitaria eriantha), also known as digit grass, is a warm-season perennial grass native to southern Africa. It is commonly grown as pasture or hay and is valued for its drought resistance, palatability, and high forage production. It’s particularly suited for horses in regions with…
Thursday, once again delivered a packed programme of sport and entertainment. The highlight of the day came from The London Grand Prix, brilliantly won by Mariano Martinez Bastida and Jup. Earlier in the day, The Christmas Tree Speed Stakes saw Darragh Kenny claim the top spot and the first leg of the FEI Driving World…
Laminitis is one of the most feared equine diseases due to its painful nature and the severe impact it can have on a horse's health and longevity. This article provides a comprehensive overview of laminitis, its causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention strategies. What is laminitis? Laminitis is a complex, multifactorial disease involving inflammation of the laminae.…
Creating a safe and secure environment for our equine friends is paramount for their wellbeing. Choosing the right fencing is not just about 'keeping them in the paddock'; it's about providing a secure space that minimises the risk of injury. This article explores the elements of safe fencing to ensure your horses can roam and…

