As parts of South Africa adopt the browner hues of winter, fire becomes an increasing concern. Fire poses huge threats to our animals, our yards and, of course, ourselves. It goes without saying that buildings made of metal, stone or brick are far less at risk than timber structures. Cement and compacted earth floors also…
The FEI has issued a warning to the equestrian community about synephrine, a banned substance listed on the Equine Prohibited Substances List. A high number of samples taken from horses in the UK recently have tested positive for the substance. Investigations as to the specific source responsible in this case are continuing but the FEI…
Check the ticks that are present in your area so that you can readily identify them. Perform tick checks of your horse which involve looking at the chest area, between the legs, under the chin, between the buttocks and under the tail. Pasture maintenance can also help to some extent, as by keeping…
Watch this video of Camilla Lamb from the Lipizzaners showing us the fourth recommended stretch for your horses. Thank you to Ice man and the Lipizzaners for putting this series together for us. When you have watched the video, video yourselves trying the stretch with your horse. Send your video to hq@panorama.co.za and stand a chance…
[Q] Why are horses more commonly shed in front than behind? [A] Horses are more commonly shod in front than behind because horses bear more weight on the front legs than their hind legs. Therefore horses are more likely to be foot sore in front than behind, due to the weight distribution. Some owners also…
[Q] What is the best way to get a horse who is very on the forehand onto his hind end? He sometimes snatches the reins forwards. He has been checked by the saddle fitter and physio and we have ruled out any pain. Asked by Adri Alberts [A] A horse who is very on the…
Q: My horse has recently started to buck and buck. We've just checked his saddle and the saddle fitter can't find anything wrong with the fit and says that she doesn't believe his back is sore. What do you recommend as the next step? A: We agree absolutely with your decision to get your saddle…
Q: How long does it take to clear imported products through customs? We want to buy some tack online and have it brought to South Africa. A: Usually it takes 10 to 14 days for the imported items to clear through customs; however, this is subject to change and is incredibly variable. Sometimes items…
Asked by Tracy Lee A: Showjumpers often favour a stirrup iron with a wide base and strong tread. Wide-based stirrups are more secure and are easier to keep balanced on the foot, hence their popularity. 'Cheese-grater' treads prevent the foot from slipping through the stirrup and can help with keeping the leg still. Angled stirrups…
By Sarah Wilkinson Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a disease affecting the respiratory system of a horse. It occurs worldwide but is particularly common in South Africa because of our dry environment (especially in winter). In the northern hemisphere, it tends to occur in the dry summer season. COPD is also commonly known as heaves or recurrent airway obstruction (RAO).…
