A new study from the UK suggests that how we handle the first few hours after a wound occurs matters more, and varies more, than we might like to admit. Researchers at the University of Nottingham, in collaboration with the British Horse Society, asked owners to report on real wounds in their own horses, from injury…
The Qerly Chin effect: how one mare shaped a dynasty From a talented mare in Belgium to a dynasty of champions, the Qerly Chin line has become one of the most powerful forces in modern showjumping breeding. The foundation When the Belgian mare Qerly Chin (Chin Chin × Kerly by Pachat II) first stepped into…
A history In 1969, George Morris visited South Africa to perform clinics in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Salisbury (Harare, Zimbabwe). At this stage in Southern Africa, a great variety of riding styles and theories were practised. This likely stemmed from the diverse sources of horsemanship; namely, farming, military and imported techniques from Europe. However, it…
by Unbridled Marketing Text: Kim Dale, Founder of Unbridled Marketing If you run a horse business in South Africa, chances are you did not start it because you are an expert entrepreneur or an expert marketer. You started it because you love horses and saw a gap. The marketing and business savvy usually comes later, somewhere…
Q: Should I rug my horse during South Africa’s mild winter nights? A: Not necessarily. Horses are far more cold-tolerant than humans and can comfortably withstand temperatures as low as 5°C if they are unclipped, have adequate forage, and shelter from wind and rain. Rugging unnecessarily can disrupt thermoregulation, flatten coat hairs, and even contribute…
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 must produce more body heat to maintain their body temperature. On top of this, the amount and quality of the grazing…
Briana Burgess is an International Grand Prix rider and Top 10 World Young Horse Championship Finalist. She spent 12 years based in Germany, training under some of the world’s top coaches, including Johan Rockx, Penny Zavitz-Rockx, Monica Theodorescu, Patrik Kittel, Helen Langehanenberg and Christoph Koschel. Now based in the South of France at Domaine Equestre Des…
Pea protein isolate is a relatively new product in South Africa, but as owners begin to see the impact of this powerful supplement, its popularity is increasing. Traditionally, horses have derived protein from sources like alfalfa, soy, and flax, but pea protein isolate (PPI) is emerging as a viable and perhaps better alternative. This article…
The Friesian, with its striking black coat, feathered legs, and unique movement, is one of the most recognisable horse breeds in the world. Originating from the Netherlands and classified as a light draught horse, the Friesian has a rich history and continues to captivate horse lovers globally, including in South Africa, where its presence is…
The SA Boerperd is a distinctive breed with deep historical roots in South Africa. Developed by the early settlers in South Africa, the Boerperd is a result of crossbreeding between various horse breeds, including the Arab, Khoikhoi horse, Hackneys, and later, the Andalusian and Thoroughbred. Originally, bred for their endurance, strength, and versatility, the Boerperd…
