The horse's digestion - video

This "3D Horse Digestion Guide" made for Purina Mills TV shows the detail of how a horse breaks down its food and the process of digestion. Understanding the horse's digestive system will really help you to understand the importance of the rules of feeding.

Horse Addiction Disorder

HAD (Horse Addiction Disorder) refers to the psychological dependence on equines.
Unfortunately there is no known cure for this condition as deprivation is likely to lead to the sufferers actively seeking and/or approaching random equines. Not only could this pose potential dangers to the individual, but this behaviour inevitably reinforces the sufferer’s obsession with horses. In other words it's a vicious circle! HAD sufferers should be permitted their equine time despite the negative consequences which include: significantly reduced social hours with non horsey people, decreased regard for personal appearance and the strong possibility of their obsession causing poverty.
HAD sufferers are generally happy people, in fact all of them will tell you they don't suffer from this condition, they survive because of it!

Responsiblities of horse ownership

RESPONSIBLITIES OF HORSE OWNERSHIP

Click the above link to read the British Equine Veterinary Association Trust pdf written by Rachel Murray MA VetMB MS PHD Dip ACVS ECVS MRCVS of the Animal Health Trust Newmarket.

Contents:
Responsiblities to the horse: Nutrition & shelter
                                           Contentment
                                           Health
                                           Safety
                                           Use
                                           Euthansia
Responsiblities to others.
Responsiblities to the environment
Summary

Happy Christmas

Hope your Christmas wishes come true

Kam Tip of the Week

Here is a great resource from Kam Animal Services. Their Tips of the Week give you snippets of useful information.
Found via Horse and Man

Horse Yoga

Interesting article from Mail Online about Linda Gaunti and her Arab Lewis doing yoga together, take a look at the article
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2034410/Lewis-Egyptian-Arabian-horse-Still-competing-old-age-beating-stiffness-joints--doing-YOGA.html
and be sure to read the comments.
What do you think, yoga or carrot stretches, learned or copied?

Haynet

Have you discovered Haynet yet?

Haynet is a brand new social friendly blogging network where we aim to bring together the best equine and country life bloggers around. There are many funny and inspirational horse owners and riders who are also talented bloggers, many of whom havent really been heard. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a plucky newbie, we’re here to help you blog better through our network.

Haynet is a new UK-based site that already has over 400 members. It provides a central location for horse blogs, includes a  forum, categorization of blogs, and direct links to individual blog sites. And there's an “Agony Aunt” who'll answer your schooling problems so if you haven't joined already pop over now to http://hay-net.co.uk/ and join now.

Keep Your Horse Healthy - Free Disease Prevention Pack from World Horse Welfare

Last year, the UK horse industry was given a reminder of the increasing threat from infectious disease when Equine Infectious Anaemia was diagnosed in three locations in England for the first time since 1976.  The first case occurred in Wiltshire in January, followed by cases in Northumberland and Devon in September. 

It has never been so important to minimise the risk of serious and contagious diseases from entering or spreading across the country. An outbreak of disease could be catastrophic for the equestrian industry as well as threatening the welfare of horses in general.

Some worrying findings from our 2009 Livery Yard Survey suggest that many people are not aware of the risks or what preventative action should be taken:

• 61% of stables were not cleaned out between occupants
• 48% said there were no isolation facilities
• 38% said there were no procedures to exclude horses with disease

To help UK horse owners protect their horses against the ever-present and increasing threat from a number of infectious diseases, we launched a free disease prevention information pack last summer.  Keep Your Horse Healthy aims to highlight the need for every horse owner to be aware of diseases such as EIA, Strangles and Flu, and offers simple steps to help protect against their entry and spread.

So far, more than 2,000 copies of the pack have been requested and we've had some fantastic feedback from experts in the field.  To request your copy, please click here to complete our online request form or call the Campaigns Team on 01953 497232.

Our Chief Executive, Roly Owers, comments: “The pack has been created to give horse owners and keepers practical advice as to how they can minimise the incursion and spread of disease. Simple, everyday actions such as good hygiene, avoiding mixing with unfamiliar horses, and maintaining good routine health care are essential in the fight against disease.

“Our research has shown that we as an industry are not addressing the current risk of disease. With the growing popularity of horse riding, climate change and the ever-increasing movement of horses, both within the UK and overseas, the threat of disease is on the increase. We're extremely concerned that if we as a horse owning nation do not act now we will have an epidemic situation on our hands. Education is vital to protect our horses. Every horse owner has an obligation not only to their own horse, but to the horses in their yard and across the country.”

Horses being abandoned in the UK

392 cases of abandoned horses have been reported to Redwings, the largest horse sanctuary in the UK so far this year, they estimate that the total for 2011 will be in the region of 460 as compared to 160 in 2009.
Abandonment is not the answer, warns Redwings, nor are charities an easy solution.
“Abandoning your horse does not necessarily mean it will have a happy ending at a charity or sanctuary because we simply cannot accommodate them all,” comments Senior Welfare Officer Rachel Angell. “We are using all of our limited resources to ‘fire fight’ the number of welfare cases that involve advanced suffering, these have to remain a priority. A charity is unfortunately not the instant answer, as many are already stretched to the limit.”
 “Sadly while many abandonments are the result of dealers and breeders leaving their unwanted stock on a public road or on council or privately owned land we also suspect that some of the abandoned animals are the result of inexperienced people ridding themselves of an expensive problem,” explains Rachel.
Redwings wishes to send out two strong messages: that breeders should think carefully before producing foals and that people stop and think carefully before taking on the cost and responsibility of an equine.
“Abandoning a horse or pony is not only illegal but is extremely cruel”, concludes Rachel. “It is not in any way caring as it puts the animal through a stressful ordeal with very little chance of a good outcome.”
Anyone struggling to care for their horse is welcome to call Redwings Horse Sanctuary for free advice on 01508 481008 or read information about abandonment, including what to do if a horse has been abandoned on your land, see www.redwings.org.uk/welfare/advice-and-information/abandonment/.

How to work out your horses 's body condition score

What's your horse's body condition score?

Is he / she too fat or too thin?

How do you tell?

Here is a very helpful video that explains how to access your horse's body condition score:

What's your horse's body condition score?

Just a quick reminder about fireworks and equines

As we all know  animals are terrified of fireworks and this includes most horses so extra care needs to be taken at times when people are more likely to be having firework displays such as Guy Fawkes and New Year.
Forewarned is forearmed, so keep an eye out in the local press etc for advertisements for firework displays in your area. If you know your horse is very scared of fireworks you might consider sedation, your vet will be able to supply Sedalin which will help to keep your horse calm. Also if you know there is to be a firework display near you you can arrange to stay with the horse while it is going on.
Generally we wouldn't advise that you change your horses routine as this will only cause additional stress. If your horse is stabled an extra thick bed well banked around the sides will help prevent injury or casting, remember to check carefully for anything that the horse could injure itself on. If your horse is out at grass make especially sure that fences and gates are in good repair.
It's always worth talking to the organizers of firework displays or parties to warn them that there are horses in the area and to ask them to enusre that the fireworks are set off in the opposite direction to the horses.
Make sure that you have a fire procedure in place and the telephone numbers of the fire brigade and your vet to hand. Also check you have  third party liability insurance, if your horse does get out and causes damage you will be held liable for compensation.

Found at http://www.horsecarecourses.com/horse-care/2011/10/horses-and-fireworks.html#tp

Equine Mud Fever

Autumn is here and the weather will turn to rain resulting in muddy fields so now is the time to start preventative measures against mud fever. Mud Fever is a painful and debilitating skin condition, you can find out more about Mud Fever, how to prevent it and how to treat it by visiting Horse Care Courses and reading the article http://www.horsecarecourses.com/horse-care/2011/10/mud-fever-and-how-to-avoid-your-horse-getting-it.html#tp

Fireworks

With November 5th fast approaching some timely advice from the BHS:

Fireworks can frighten even the most sensible horse. Therefore, the BHS has put together a checklist for owners:

• Look at local press and local shops’ notice boards and listen to the radio to find out where the displays will be in your area.

• Wherever possible, tell neighbours and local firework display organisers that there are horses nearby, so they can ensure fireworks are set off in the opposite direction and well away from them.
  
• Decide whether to stable your horse or leave it in the field. It is sensible to keep your horse in its familiar environment, in its normal routine, with any companions to make it feel secure. If it is usually stabled, keep it stabled. If it is normally out in the field, keep it there as long as it is safe, secure and not close to the firework display area.
  
• If stabled, check thoroughly for anything that could cause potential injury such as protruding nails and string.
  
• If your horse is to stay in the field, check that fencing is not broken and that there are no foreign objects lying around.
  
• Ensure that you, or someone experienced, stays with your horse if you know that fireworks are being set off.
  
• If it is absolutely necessary for you to leave your horse in the care of another person during a firework display, then be sure to leave clear instructions and contact details for both you and your vet should any problems arise.
  
• If you know your animal will be stressed, talk to your vet about sedation, or perhaps consider moving your horse for the night.
  
• Playing music on a radio positioned outside the stable can often mask sudden noise, distract attention and be soothing.
  
• Try to remain calm yourself and keep positive, as horses will sense unease in a person and this may make things worse if the horse is startled.
  
• It may seem common sense but be aware of your own safety; a startled horse can be dangerous.
  
• Whatever you do – don’t risk riding when you think fireworks might be set off.
  
• Check if there will be a bonfire near your yard. If there is, make sure you have an emergency fire procedure in place. If you have any doubts, talk to your local fire safety officer.
  
• Make sure that you have adequate third party liability insurance. If your horse is frightened and escapes, causing an accident, then you could be held liable for compensation.

By being proactive in planning for fireworks and Bonfire Night, you can make the annual celebrations less stressful for you and your horse.

It is not just horse owners who need to be careful. Anyone organising a firework display should inform local horse owners. It is also a good idea not to let fireworks off anywhere near fields or farms.

Most people don’t realise how much suffering fireworks cause to animals, particularly horses and those who really want to have fireworks in their back garden should think carefully about how it will affect the local animals before they do so.

Funding required for a documentary about horses and the kids they save

Please visit http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1381269252/horse-shoes-a-documentary-about-horses-and-the-kid?ref=card to find more information on Horse Shoes : A Documentary about horses & the kids they save. I've seen the preview video, found via Horse Sense (who found it via http://midwesthorse.blogspot.com/ ) and the guy needs funding to continue, it's a good cause...

Horse Care Courses

Taking a horse care course before you get your horse or pony is a great way of making sure that you have the necessary knowledge to look after your equine. There are courses being run up and down the country, some over a few weeks, others a day course such as the one shown in this post at Hesbert Hall, even if you can't actually manage to attend a course you can still take on online. Anyway for today we'll take a look and see what the Hesbert Hall Equine Course offers:

HORSE CARE AND MANAGEMENT THE BASICS - SUNDAY 2nd October 2011 9am - 4pm

WHAT ARE WE DEALING WITH?

How evolution has made horses the kind of animal they are - social, grazing, running, prey animals     and how this affects our care and management practices.

The need for company: discussing conventional versus group housing and turnout.
Nutrition and feeding: the best types of feed and how to provide necessary nutrients for different     equine types and lifestyles.
Movement, exercise and work: natural patterns versus domestic routines.
Equine psychology and behaviour: why horses behave as they do, why they can appear to us to 'misbehave' which is really survival tactics, and what to do about it.

FACILITIES & EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Stables and shelters: equines are active, strong animals. They need strong, safe fences or             hedges and strongly-constructed stables and shelters. Sizes, materials, fittings and equipment,         bedding materials and mucking out.
Land requirements: grazing, freedom and exercise. Grassland types and management.
Feed and water containers: buckets, tubs, mangers, haynets and 'haybars', automatic drinkers,     troughs. Feed storage.
Grooming:  brushes and other kit.
Yard equipment: brushes, shovels, wheelbarrows, bedding forks.
Tack: saddles, bridles, harness and training equipment. Clothing.
First aid kits: a basic kit of essentials.
Exercise areas: indoor, covered and outdoor arenas, off-road riding, hacking.  How much exercise     and what type?

SKILLS AND TIME REQUIREMENTS

Your attitude: calm, firm and positive.
Handling: leading a horse in hand, moving him around, picking up feet, putting on and taking off headcollars, rugs, saddles and bridles. Boots and bandages.
Grooming: a basic grooming routine.
Health checks: what to look for, vital signs and when to call the vet. Insurance.
Mixing feeds: giving your horse his feed. Feeding in stable and field. Giving hay and haylage.
Mucking out: how to manage different bedding systems and materials.
Cleaning tack: make sure you can put it all back together before you take it apart! Products and     methods.

Find out more about Susan McBane

BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Maximum Number: 15

Price: £65 including lunch

For full details on this particular course visit Hesbert Hall Courses

BHS Horse Care Advice Free Leaflets

The following publications are available to download free of charge from the BHS website:

Buying and Owning Your First Horse

Loaning or Leasing a Horse or Pony

Sample Loan Agreement

Cutting Cost Without Compromise

Responsible Rehoming

Euthanasia

Tetanus and Influenza Vaccination

 

Colic

African Horse Sickness

African Horse Sickness – Frequently Asked Questions

BHS Code of Practice for the Welfare of Horses & Ponies at Events

BHS Code of Practice for the Welfare of Horses & Ponies at Events – Notes

How to Weigh Your Horse

Condition Scoring

Guidelines for the Keeping of Horses: Stable Sizes, Pasture and Fencing

The Cost of Keeping a Horse or Pony

Essential Health Care Requirements

Prevention and Management of Laminitis

The Dangers of Ragwort

Ragwort - friend or foe?

Pasture Management

Worm Control

Basic Feeding

Bedding

Respiratory Health

Strangles

Strategy to Eradicate and Prevent Strangles (STEPs)

Sweet Itch

Cushing's Disease

How much to feed your horse?

Baileys Horse Feeds has a really useful feed calculator on their website, they help you establish your horse's bodyweight to enable you to work out the amount of feed required according to workload.

Demonstration of How To Do the Tellington TTouch®

Watch Linda Tellington- Jones demonstrate a TTouch circular movement on YouTube, read more about it on Linda's website and blog Linda Tellington-Jones Talks Story 

Spanish Riding School of Vienna at Wembley 2011

The world famous Spanish Riding School Of Vienna will be performing at Wembley on 24th, 25th, 26 & 27th Novemeber tickets start at around £28.00 for more information or to book visit The Spanish Riding School Wembley 2011

THINK - horse and rider safety on the road

Horse Sense  - Pass horses wide and slow

Car drivers and horse riders both have a right to use the road. By considering each others' needs and following some basic advice, drivers and riders can help avoid accidents involving horses on the road.

THINK! Advice

Advice for motorists

• Slow down and be ready to stop if necessary
• Look out for riders' signals to slow down or stop
• Watch out for sudden movements, horses can be easily frightened and unpredictable
• Don't sound your horn or rev your engine
• Pass wide and slow when overtaking; giving the horse plenty of room. Don’t accelerate rapidly once you have passed them.
• On roundabouts, horse riders will keep to the left within the roundabout until reaching their exit, when they will signal left. They will normally signal right only when approaching exits they don't intend to use

Advice for horse riders

• Always display fluorescent/reflective clothing on both horse and rider whatever the weather or light conditions
• If at all avoidable, don't ride in failing light, fog or darkness. Avoid icy or snowy roads
• If riding a horse that is not used to roads, ask a rider with a horse who is experienced and calm to accompany you
• Never take a mounted group of more than eight horses on the road
• If riding two abreast, move into single file as soon as it is safe for the motorist to overtake. Don't ride more than two abreast on the road
• Always cross major crossings in a group, rather than trickling across one by one
• Leave details of your intended route and estimated time of return with a responsible person

extract from directgov