Education Zone

About Mikey is an 11-year-old Irish Sports Horse, owned by Laura Szuca since 2014. They compete in showing and dressage, although Mikey hacks regularly and jumps from time to time. Mikey is prone to filled legs, especially after working hard and in the mornings after being stabled overnight. He is also at a prime age for arthritis, and like most horses with a bit of mileage – can start his ridden sessions a bit stiff, particularly in winter. Laura says: “If I am honest, I wasn’t sure if the magnetic therapy chaps would work. Were they just a fad, and yet another way to spend my hard-earned cash on my horse? I have been using them now for over a month and so feel I have given them a fair trial to see if they could make a difference to my horse, Mikey – an 11-year-old ISH with a pretty busy life. More and more recently his legs have been swelling up overnight, and he is now at a prime age for arthritis. Having read up on the Equilibrium magnetic chaps, and having used some of their other products before that I liked, I decided to purchase some. They can be used on front and back legs (I purchased a pair for both) and they fit well, one thing I really like about the product is that you can move the magnets to where you want them, which means if you think you have a problem area somewhere in the leg you can just pull the magnets off and then put them where you want them. For me, Mikey has a splint on both of his front legs, so I figured that if I am going to pick somewhere to put the magnets, there is as good a place as any. On his hind legs I have put the magnets up high to help any onset of arthritis. He wears them in his stable overnight and they don’t move an inch! The first thing I noticed after just a few days was the shape of Mikey’s leg – honestly – I have owned him for 3 years and have never seen such definition! There is no swelling, no puffiness and his legs both look and feel great. The second benefit, which to be honest I wasn’t really expecting... Was the difference in his splints, they have reduced in size - I was shocked! He’s had the splints around 12-18 months and I didn’t think you could really do anything for them at this stage, but I can honestly say they have both reduced in size, and the one on his right fore has almost gone. A miracle? I don’t know, but the only change I have made to his well-being is using the Equilibrium Magnetic Chaps. A definite 10/10 for me!” Equilibrium Magnetic Chaps The Equilibrium Magnetic Chaps provide a quick and effective way of providing magnetic therapy to horses. They are suitable for front and hind legs, are quick and easy to put on and can conveniently be left on overnight in the stable. The magnets are also able to be positioned anywhere within the chap – so can be placed exactly where they are needed. FIND OUT MORE

Whether you believe in magnets or not, there is something mysterious about the effect it can have on the body. And while cold, hard scientific proof is difficult to find, we do know some truths and have definitely witnessed some positive results when it comes to keeping horses legs and backs in top condition. Here are 5 things you might not have known about magnets. 1) They are suitable for all horses. Magnets can be used on all horses and ponies to maintain healthy muscles, joints, tendons and ligaments. They are great to help horses that are working hard, feel the cold, or maybe those who are being brought back into work and are recruiting muscles that haven’t been used for a while. "Love these! Feel they make a difference to my old boy who’s stiff and arthritic in front. Easy to move magnets to where you want and easy to put on." Samantha Gillespie 2) Let them do their work overnight.  Using magnets doesn’t have to cause an inconvenience to your routine or require extra time. While some other magnetic products can only be used for a limited amount of time, our Magnetic Range is designed to fit into your schedule – so you can leave them on overnight and use them everyday. In an ideal world, magnets should be used for at least 4 hours if possible – making an overnight solution super convenient, especially when we all know time can be short on the yard, particularly during winter! "Fantastic fit, easy to put on and take off and to wash for daily use. And they stay on! Which is a huge bonus, unlike other boots." Helen Gallagher 3) Neodymium, Ceramic, Rubber – not all magnets are the same. There are lots of different types of magnets made up of various components, and the type of magnet can also determine the strength. You can be blinded by science but apart from strength, there are a few other things to consider – such as weight, flexibility, how they are being applied, and as they have a local or targeted effect, are the magnets where you need them to be? Our Magnetic Range use unique magnets which can be moved to exactly where YOU need them. "I love these magnetic chaps - they’re warm, magnets are easy to move around, the ideal aid for arthritic horses!" Trusted Customer 4) Just because a magnet sticks to metal doesn’t mean it will produce an effect. Every magnet will have a gauss surface strength. This is what makes it stick to a metal surface,  i.e. a fridge magnet sticking to a fridge. It is important to understand however, that this surface measurement is not necessarily representative of its effect on your horse. 5) Magnets don’t wear out. Magnets used in most magnetic products are called Static Magnets – where they have been ‘charged’ and then hold that charge for the remainder of their days. This means their magnetic field will remain constant and the results should not diminish over time, with proper care of course! Overall, magnets have been seen to have positive effects in horses for both maintaining health and performance. And while there are different types of magnets, choose one to fit into your routine, that’s comfortable for your horse to wear and above all, effective! The Equilibrium Magnetic Range Affordable, effective magnetic products suitable for all horses and ponies. Designed to be used overnight in the stable, and perfect for all horses and ponies to support mobility, aid joint function and maintain healthy tendons.  Equilibrium Magnetic Chaps Equilibrium Hind & Hock Magnetic Chaps

We have compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions on our Magnetic Range below. If you would like your question answered, please email info@equilibriumproducts.com and we will post it here with our answer. Magnetic FAQ: How do the magnets work? A magnet has two poles, North and South. Opposite poles attract and conversely like poles repel. When a magnet is placed on the body, the magnetic properties in the body’s cells will either attract those that are opposite or repel those that are alike. In this way the activity of the cells is increased. Can I start using the magnetic products on my horse straight away? Yes. It is extremely rare for a horse to have an adverse reaction to our magnets. As with all new products, you may like to try the products on your horse for a short time initially while you’re nearby to check for fit. When should I not use magnetic products on my horse? Do not apply magnets on open wounds, bruises, infection, areas of inflammations or for the first 5 days following steroid injections. It is not advisable to use magnets on a horse with a heart murmur or in the first trimester of pregnancy for you or your horse! Note: People with heart pacemakers should not carry magnetic products. What are the benefits of the Magnetic Chaps? The Magnetic Chaps can be worn to support mobility, aid joint function and maintain healthy tendons. Magnets can help maintain blood circulation for a horse stood at rest. How long will the magnets last? The magnets will not become less efficient over time. Can I wash the magnets? The magnets themselves CANNOT be washed. The Magnetic Chaps can be washed on a cool wash with a non-biological detergent. The magnets should be removed from the protective pockets prior to washing to avoid accidental damage to the washing machine and the magnets. How should the products be stored when not in use? Store in a dry place away from extreme temperatures. For example, avoid storing the magnets in a very cold place such as a tack room during winter, as the magnets may lose their flexibility. Can the Magnetic Chaps be worn for turnout? The Magnetic Chaps should only be worn in the stable and not worn for turnout as the Chaps are not designed for outdoor use. Magnets work best when the horse is at rest. Can I use Magnetic Chaps when my horse has mud fever? We advise waiting until your horses’ mud fever has cleared up before using Magnetic Chaps. This is because magnets should not be used on open wounds or if there is any risk of infection. Can I put the Magnetic Chaps on wet legs? For comfort reasons, we would recommend towel drying horses’ legs thoroughly before putting the Magnetic Chaps on. Can I purchase replacement magnets? Yes, replacement magnets can be purchased here.

We are dedicated to creating carefully designed products that improve the wellbeing of the horse.  All of our products are thoroughly researched, tested and quality checked. The Equilibrium Massage Pad has been independently tested by Myerscough College in Lancashire. The results, following 4 weeks of testing, show that the massage pad offers significant benefits to working horses, improving back flexibility, promoting relaxation and that it could help to increase stride length. There were two parts to the study: 1) The horses were measured for signs of stress / relaxation immediately before, during and after the application of the massage pads over a six week period 2) The horses were assessed in terms of flexibility and suppleness. There were two groups of horses – a treated group and a control group. Test Methods Back flexibility was assessed using the ‘Arch Dip Test’.  The Arch & Dip test is a reliable and proven indicator of back flexibility (Pelham & Schobesberger 2006). It involves the use of pressure stimulus to generate a reflex in the horses’ back. Pressure applied to a specific region in the spinal area results in the horse ‘dipping’ away from the pressure, with a more flexible back allowing the horse to exhibit a greater ability to dip away from the source of the pressure. The arch test involves the application of pressure to the horses’ midline, in order to stimulate an upwards arch reflex in the horses’ back away from the source of pressure. Similarly, a more flexible back allows the horse to exhibit a greater ability to arch the back upwards away from the source of the pressure. As a measure of relaxation, the horses also had their heart rates monitored. Results Reducing Stiffness Test results demonstrated an overall improvement in back flexibility of approx. 46%. Stride Length The trial showed that the stride length of the horses who wore the Massage Pad which was turned on increased over the test period by 12cms, whereas the control group showed little improvement. Horse owners know that a small change in stride length can make a major difference to the way of going in the horse. Promoting Relaxation Using a heart rate monitor, horses wearing the Equilibrium Massage Pad had a consistently lower heart rate than those in the control group. Conclusion The results after 6 weeks of testing indicate that 1) the horses appeared more relaxed and 2) the performance of the horse would be expected to improve due to the increased flexibility of the horses’ back muscles. Relaxed muscles will assist with flexibility and movement in particular for competition horses performing dressage movements and jumping technical fences.

In recent years, animal physiotherapy, including massage and magnetic therapy, has grown in popularity as a way to support the musculoskeletal health of horses. These therapies aim to prevent injuries, promote recovery, and enhance performance, making them a staple for owners and trainers seeking optimal care for their equine partners. Massage, defined as the manipulation of soft tissues, offers a range of benefits including injury prevention, relaxation, fatigue recovery, and increased mobility (Hemmings, 2001). By improving flexibility and reducing musculoskeletal pain, massage can significantly enhance a horse's performance (Gellman, 1998). While manual massage techniques have long been the traditional approach, advancements in technology have introduced electrical modalities, expanding the options for therapeutic intervention. The Benefits of Equine Massage Massage isn’t just a luxury — it’s a powerful tool to promote a horse's physical and mental well-being. Here's a closer look at its key benefits: 1. Improved Flexibility and Relaxation Tension in the muscles and soft tissues is one of the most common causes of poor performance in horses. Tension can manifest in various ways, such as stiffness, shortened stride length, or behavioural issues like hollowness, bucking, or even rearing. Regular massage helps release this tension, promoting relaxation and improving back flexibility. By maintaining a healthy, supple back, horses are better equipped to perform to their full potential. 2. Enhanced Blood Flow and Circulation Massage stimulates blood flow to the treated areas, promoting vasodilation — the widening of blood vessels. This increased circulation brings an enhanced supply of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, which is crucial for maintaining muscle health. Post-exercise, massage aids in flushing out metabolic waste products like lactic acid, which can otherwise contribute to soreness and fatigue. 3. Reduction in Injury Risk By keeping muscles pliable, soft, and free of adhesions, massage reduces the risk of strains or tears. Regular massage sessions with a qualified therapist can also highlight any musculature changes, and allow you to identify any potential problems.  4. Behavioural and Psychological Benefits Massage doesn’t just address physical issues. The release of endorphins during massage sessions provides a sense of relaxation and comfort, making it an effective tool for managing stress, but also giving the horse a 'feel-good' sensation.  When to Use Massage Incorporating massage into your horse's routine can be beneficial in various scenarios. Here are some practical applications: For horses on box rest: Massage helps maintain circulation and prevent muscle atrophy during periods of restricted movement. After exercise: Helps with muscle recovery by removing toxins and promoting repair. Before exercise: Serves as a valuable part of a warm-up routine, increasing circulation and encouraging relaxation to prepare muscles for activity. After travelling: Helps to alleviate stiffness and discomfort caused by prolonged periods of standing in a trailer or lorry. On rest days: Supports overall maintenance and recovery, ensuring muscles remain supple. As a reward: A relaxing massage can be a great way to bond with your horse. Manual vs. Technology-Assisted Massage Traditional massage techniques, performed manually, remain widely practised and effective. However, the introduction of electrical modalities, such as massage pads or handheld devices, has made equine massage more accessible and consistent. These tools can target specific areas, provide adjustable intensity, and are convenient for use both at home and on the go. These do not replace the roles of qualified therapists, but can assist in between sessions and potentially prolong the time between sessions depending on the horse.  Conclusion Equine massage is a versatile, science-backed practice that contributes to your horse’s overall health and performance. By integrating massage into your care routine, you can help reduce the risk of injuries, improve flexibility, and enhance relaxation — all while strengthening your bond with your horse. Whether you choose manual techniques or technology-assisted options, regular massage offers an investment in your horse's long-term well-being. If you’re new to equine massage, consider consulting a certified veterinary physiotherapist to develop a programme tailored to your horse’s specific needs. With consistent care, you’ll likely see the benefits reflected not just in their physical health, but in their performance and temperament as well.  

Headshaking doesn’t mean an end to riding. Nose nets and other facial coverings have played a large part in returning many head shakers to normal function. They remain the most successful, preventative, home treatment for headshaking. A recent trial showed the use of nose nets halved the severity of headshaking symptoms in 50% of the horses studied with some improvement in symptoms seen in up to 80% of sufferers. In addition, our research has shown that nose nets do not appear to work by actively filtering out pollen particles and stop them from being inhaled – the holes are just too big! Instead, it is thought that they may work by distorting the airflow to the nose and their presence may distract or comfort the horse. British Dressage and British Eventing have now accepted the use of nose nets in competition. Face and ear nets can also be effective in alleviating headshaking which may suggest that for some horses there is a different cause or that these nets also have a distracting or protective role. Alleviating headshaking Creating a good relationship with your vet and trusting their judgement is an essential start to managing headshaking.  Drugs are available such as commonly used cyproheptadine and carbamazepine. Surgical techniques can be used to cut faulty nerves that are thought to cause headshaking. The success of these methods is variable but is increasing as we learn more about the condition. Keeping a diary of headshaking attacks may help you to identify potential triggers or times when the headshaking is worse. As a rule, preventing an attack is better than attempting to ride the horse through one. Remember, most head shakers are suffering from an underlying clinical problem that causes the headshaking. Some owners report improvements when their horses are stabled during the day and turned out at night in the summer. In addition, wetting hay reduces the possibility of any respiratory complications. A recent report concluded that acupuncture is unlikely to be of benefit in the majority of cases. With careful management, the outlook for many head shakers is bright and a happy and rewarding relationship can still be maintained.  Although it seems that in terms of potential causes we’re doing more ruling out than ruling in research is progressing and the future is promising.

Headshaking explained Maybe you’re just getting to grips with a new mount this spring or you’re bringing on your youngster.  Imagine your horror when you find your horse starts headshaking. Your dreams of being able to compete or even hack safely begin to crumble around you.   But don’t despair – headshaking need not mean the end to your horse’s riding career.  New research is helping vets and owners to better understand this condition and give practical solutions for managing the problem. What is headshaking? Nowadays it seems that everyone knows someone with a head shaker.  But what is a ‘head shaker’ and what distinguishes them from a horse with a short-term irritation or behavioural problem? Most horses shake their heads from time to time to get rid of flies or when frustrated. Horses that simply nod their heads when stabled or as they turn home from a ride, may not be head shakers but ‘nodders’, a condition that is responsive  to changes in management. ‘Nodders’ do not usually cause great problems to themselves or their owner. True head shakers do so persistently and for no apparent reason. They exhibit sharp, jerky vertical and horizontal head movements.  The severity of the movements can vary from small flicks to huge, sweeping arcs which threaten to hit the rider on the nose or unseat them. Experts now recognise that head shakers also exhibit symptoms that suggest the horse is suffering from irritation within or around the face and muzzle.  Head shakers that also snort excessively during an attack will try to rub their face or act as if a bee has gone up their nose. They may even run their nose along the ground or strike the ground during the attack.  Moreover the unpredictability of the length and occurrence of these attacks can severely limit a rider’s ability to compete or even ride safely. By Dr Katy Taylor De Montfort University

An introduction to Laminitis What is laminitis? Equine laminitis is a painful condition of the feet affecting horses and ponies. It is the most common cause of lameness in the UK. The lameness ranges from being barely noticeable to severe. Laminitis involves inflammation in the sensitive tissues of the foot (laminae). These tissues connect the lowest bone within the hoof (pedal bone) to the hoof wall. As the condition develops, this connection starts to weaken, causing the pedal bone to rotate and point towards the sole (sinking). There are two types of laminitis: acute and chronic. Acute laminitis Early stages of the condition Considered a vet emergency Clinical signs present but pedal bone hasn’t moved Can be treated to prevent it becoming chronic Chronic laminitis Later stages of the condition Pedal bone has moved within the hoof Ongoing foot problems are more likely such as lameness and foot abscesses What causes laminitis? Laminitis arises when the blood flow to the foot is interrupted. This results in certain areas not receiving sufficient blood but blood carries oxygen and vital nutrients. Therefore, cells in the foot become damaged which causes inflammation and pain. Laminitis is a complex condition with several possible causes. About 90% of laminitis cases are caused by underlying hormonal (endocrine) disease ‐ mainly Cushing’s Disease and equine metabolic syndrome (EMS). The remaining 10% may be caused by: carbohydrate overload eg if your horse gets into the feed-room; toxaemia, due to toxins released by bacteria during some illnesses such as colic, diarrhoea, liver or respiratory disease, or from a retained placenta after foaling; concussion, perhaps due to working on hard surfaces; excessive weight bearing, when lameness in one limb causes the horse to carry too much weight on other limbs. What are the clinical signs of laminitis? Laminitis can affect all four feet, but most commonly affects the front. The typical stance is with the affected horse standing with his hind-legs well underneath his body and leaning back to take weight of his front toes. He may also have hot feet with a strong (digital) pulse felt at the back of his fetlock. Other possible indicators are: signs of pain such as reluctance to move, facial tension, and a lack of interest in his surroundings; general stiffness; or weight shifting while at rest. He may also have a ‘pottery’ walk caused by placing the heel down before the toe, or lameness that is exaggerated on a hard surface. How can I prevent laminitis? Laminitis may be prevented by ensuring your horse is of correct weight and body condition score. Feed him an appropriate diet with sufficient exercise to prevent weight increases. Latest research suggests avoiding diets containing too much sugar (including molasses) which affects insulin levels. Monitor for underlying metabolic conditions and causes of laminitis, such as Cushing’s Disease and EMS. For horses with a past history of laminitis, it is essential that you follow the advice from your vet, farrier and nutritionist to manage your horse effectively. How is laminitis treated? There is no cure for laminitis, but early treatment and management will improve the chances of recovery. Your vet should be called early on in all cases of laminitis. Box rest is necessary to minimise movement and prevent further damage until your horse becomes sound. Pain‐relieving medication can be administered, such as phenylbutazone (bute). X‐rays will check for pedal bone movement and daily monitoring of foot temperature and digital pulse is advisable. Feet may be trimmed appropriately or shod with special shoes to alleviate pressure and prevent further damage. Try to eliminate recurrence of laminitis by reducing grass intake and feeding an appropriate diet, read more about feeding the laminitis prone horse. Did you know? Restricting access to fresh grass can have a negative impact on the level of vitamin C in horse's systems as they use grass to generate vitamin C. Supplementing vitamin C in the diet is therefore beneficial for horses and ponies on a restricted grass diet. What is the prognosis of laminitis? Horses can recover from episodes of acute laminitis and, if treated promptly and effectively, chronic laminitis can be avoided. It is essential to act quickly and work alongside your vet, farrier and nutritionist to improve the prognosis. Hoof damage may cause ongoing problems which need to be managed accordingly. Horses that have suffered one attack of laminitis are more susceptible to suffering laminitis in the future, so careful monitoring and good management is key. With a timely diagnosis, prompt and appropriate treatment, and effective management, it is possible for horses to return to their former use and have a good quality of life. Thank you to vet, Rachel Harrison-Osborne of Wendover Heights Veterinary Centre, for her input to this article. Helpful resources https://www.laminitisclinic.org https://www.talkaboutlaminitis.co.uk https://www.laminitis.org/laminitis.htm https://www.thelaminitissite.org/laminitis.htm https://www.bhs.org.uk/welfare

Why are tendons important? Tendons are important for transmitting forces from muscle to bone. The equine flexor tendons are important for supporting the fetlock joint during standing and locomotion, and for energy efficient movement, but at peak performance the digital flexor tendons are operating close to failure strains. Why does injury occur? Because of this balance between efficiency and failure, tendon injury frequently occurs as the result of repetitive overloading. There may be increased likelihood of tendon injury if there is underlying tendon degeneration - related to increasing age and/or cumulative exercise. Rest, however, is not necessarily a good thing - a 4-6 week period of box rest has been reported to lead to a deterioration in tendon strength. Generally subtle damage tends to occur before severe damage or rupture and the middle (core) part of the tendon is more likely to be affected than the edges. When severe damage occurs, there is cycle of inflammation and then repair. However, the repaired tendon is less elastic than original tendon so reinjury is frequent, either to the repaired tendon or the interface between the normal and repaired tendon. Flexor tendon injury is more likely with greater loads, so increased weight of horse and rider, greater height of fences and faster speeds will potentially increase the risk of injury. The more times the tendon is stretched near its limit can also increase the risk of injury, for example by increased number of fences or distance galloped. In general, jumping appears to be associated with deep digital flexor tendon injury in the pastern and foot, and jumping from a high height or jumping at speed are associated with superficial digital flexor tendon injury. As the muscles become tired, uncoordinated movement can result in excessive forces on a tendon. Foot conformation can also influence tendon loading so foot balance is important in both prevention and management of injuries. Although repetitive overloading is probably the most likely reason for tendon injury, damage to tendons can also occur as a result of direct trauma. Laceration of the entire tendon will stop the continuity between muscle and bone. For a digital extensor tendon, this is rarely a major problem, unless a tendon sheath becomes infected. However, for the digital flexor tendons, a loss of support for the palmar aspect of the distal limb is potentially extremely serious. The involvement of a tendon sheath can also affect the prognosis. Signs of tendon damage For a complete rupture or laceration of the deep digital flexor tendon, the toe of the foot becomes raised from the floor as the pedal bone loses support from the tendon. If there is complete laceration or rupture of the superficial digital flexor tendon, there is reduced support for the fetlock joint, which may appear to drop. However, in most cases, there is not complete laceration or rupture, so the signs of damage can be less obvious. Swelling, heat and pain on pressure over the affected tendon are the most likely signs of damage, although for tendons within the carpal canal the horse may resent flexion of the knee, and for tendons within the digital flexor tendon sheath (behind the fetlock joint) the horse may resent flexion of the fetlock. When there is injury to the deep digital flexor tendon within the foot or pastern, the horses usually shows signs of foot pain. Diagnosis of tendon injury Nerve blocks may be used to locate the site of damage. Injuries to the superficial and deep digital flexor tendons above the pastern are most frequently diagnosed using ultrasonography (ultrasound examination). For tendons within a sheath, tenoscopy (keyhole surgery) can often be useful to see the surface of the tendon. For injuries to the deep digital flexor tendon within the foot or pastern, pain is often improved by nerve blocks to the foot, and in the past would have been confused with 'navicular disease'. Deep digital flexor tendon injury can occur either in conjunction with or in the absence of navicular bone abnormalities. Tendon injury may also be found in conjunction with damage to ligaments within the foot such as the impair ligament or collateral ligaments of the coffin joint. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the best method for diagnosing tendon or ligament damage within the foot, and has shown the importance of both tendon and ligament damage within the foot. As MRI is increasingly being used in veterinary practice, it is now possible to diagnose tendon and ligament problems that could not previously have been diagnosed, ensuring that affected horses are treated in the optimal way. A horse with complete laceration of the deep digital flexor tendon after becoming entangled in wire - resulting in the toe being lifted off the floor. MRI of a horse with damage to the deep digital flexor tendon (arrow) just above the navicular bone. On this MRI picture, it is possible to see the details of the tendons, bone, articular cartilage and other structures within the foot that are not possible to see using other types of imaging. Rachel C Murray MA VetMB MS PhD Diplomate ACVS MRCVS Many thanks to the Animal Health Trust for this article and images

What is an overreach injury? An overreach injury occurs when a horse steps on the back of a fore limb heel with the toe of a hind limb. In extreme cases an overreach injury can be potentially life threatening for a horse. This is because there are several extremely important structures on the back of the leg. What factors increase the risk of an overreach injury? Overreach injuries are more common in horses with short backs and/or active hind legs! They are also more common in muddy conditions, when the horse's front foot may stay on the ground for a second longer than it normally would, allowing the hind foot to come into contact with the heel bulbs before the front leg has been lifted. The horse must also be well trimmed and shod; too long a toe on the hind feet can increase the risk of the horse over reaching. What are the most common areas affected? The horse more often will cut into his heel bulbs when he over reaches, which, although rarely life threatening, may well mean a few weeks, or more, off work, whilst the wound heels, and this could indeed end your competition season early. How to tell? An overreach injury can vary in appearance; it could present as small cuts and abrasions, heat and swelling with no wound, or as deep lacerations and open wounds. How to treat an overreach? A heel bulb wound is very difficult to keep clean, due to its proximity to the ground. It is also very tricky to bandage this area, as any bandages will just end up like a bracelet around the pastern. Some heel bulb injuries can be so severe as to require the horse to have a foot cast applied, to allow the wound to heel without movement. For minor cuts and abrasions it is advisable to keep the horse in as clean an area as possible leaving the wound to heal, cleaning it once or twice a day depending on the severity. Always consult your veterinarian if you are unsure how deep the wound is or at any signs of infection. What’s the most sensitive area? The most serious would be if the horse struck into the back of his pastern. A few millimetres under the skin, on the back of the pastern, lies the lower portion of the tendon sheath. This tendon sheath is a synovial structure, which means it as important as a joint as far as infection goes. Higher up - overreach injuries on the back of the leg may also end up with the horse in surgery, due to lacerating tendons on the back of the leg, or once again going into the tendon sheath just above the fetlock. How serious is this? If a horse overreaches and cuts into the back of his pastern, he may well end up on the operating table. If the injury penetrates the tendon sheath, then it will require surgical flushing and closure. How do you prevent overreach injuries? Overreach injuries can be prevented by correctly fitting over reach boots.  If overreach boots are too big they may end up being trodden on by the hind feet, resulting in a nasty fall. Keeping hind toes short will also reduce the risk of injury. Natalie McGoldrick - MRCVS

  Dietary management for EMS or Cushing's Disease For a pony or horse suspected of having Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) or diagnosed with Cushings Syndrome, diet and exercise management is essential. Try and keep them fit with a target body condition score of 5 (out of 9) on the Henneke Body Condition Scale for horses. Feed little and often, and encourage them to eat slowly, to avoid large peaks and troughs in blood glucose and insulin – keep meal sizes small (less than 1kg for ponies, 2kg for horses). Manage the diet to ensure a low starch and sugar content – the target is below 10% total starch and sugar in the overall diet: Use feeds that are high in fibre and low in starch and sugar – Laminitis Trust approved main meals are a good indication of these nutritional parameters. Feed low sugar forage Hay and haylage can contain up to 10-15% sugar (they contain little starch). The sugar content can be checked by feed analysis, or alternatively the forage can be soaked. 12-16 hours soaking will deplete the sugar content by half. (However in warm weather reduce this significantly to prevent the soaking water becoming foul and smelly.) Soaking haylage may seem counter intuitive given it is already moist, but the purpose of soaking is to remove readily soluble sugars from the material, which will not happen otherwise. (Steaming doesn’t reduce the sugar content by as much as soaking) Ensure the diet is fully balanced and contains plenty of antioxidants

Feed management of the competition horse with Cushing's Disease The main challenges for the competition horse with Cushing's Disease are ensuring your horse has sufficient energy, strength and endurance to compete whilst reducing the risk of complications caused by Cushing's Disease  (PPID).  Pergolide, the main medicine used to treat Cushings Disease is not permitted in competition and there is a need for a withdrawn period before competing – this makes managing the diet even more crucial.  Managing a much increased risk of laminitis whilst feeding for competition:  Managing the laminitis is achieved via a high fibre / very low starch and sugar diet. However very low starch and sugar diets have been associated with a drop in performance / top line  in high performance horses. By low starch and sugar we are talking about 10-12% total starch and sugar in the overall diet. This means: Feeding soaked hay rather than haylage. Haylage can be higher than 10% sugar; soaking hay reduces its soluble sugar content.  Soak for 6-12 hours – 12 hours can reduce the sugar by up to 50% but may not be practical in warm weather) Hard feed: Feed several small meals to avoid any large peaks in glucose and insulin There are few very low starch and sugar hard feeds, but they do exist. Or: use a feed balancer – these are generally low in starch and sugar and are well supplemented with vitamins and minerals, but as your horse’s work intensity increases, or if he needs more condition, additional supplementation of energy would be required. Supplementing Vitamin B12 before and after competition helps to increase energy levels. Managing weight loss/muscle tone A rich supply of amino acids from quality protein sources would help with this.  Standard commercially available conditioning feeds can be 20-30% starch and sugar so are best avoided. Supporting the immune system PPID results in increased circulating levels of the stress hormone cortisol.  This depresses the immune system (as well as increasing the risk of laminitis).  To provide extra support to the immune system, feeding high doses of antioxidants is recommended.  Vitamin E and Selenium supplements are the best known for this –  avoid any herb-based products in case of potential interactions with the Pergolide and any other medications the horse might be receiving. Boosting the diet with Vitamin C is a useful respiratory supplement and will help support the immune system.

There is nothing more frustrating than when your horse either turns his nose up or doesn't finish his feed.  Some may be plain fussy, but others seems to go off their feed as the showing season progresses. Tempting stressy horses is a challenge as they can seem to melt away in front of you. For some horses the root cause is physical and for others it’s psychological. Careful considerations For the horse that starts to turn his nose up unexpectedly, consider what might have changed – from a step up in work level to a new batch of feed or forage.  Also consider if there may be any underlying issues such as worn teeth or gastric ulcers. Amongst the physical causes of poor appetite, top of the list could be digestive discomfort, usually in horses eating small amounts of forage.  The discomfort could be from gastric ulcers - a reduction in forage means less chewing time and a build up of stomach acid. Discomfort in the large intestine may also be a cause of poor appetite as a result of starch overflow (from a high cereal meal) into the hindgut disrupting the delicate microbial balance there. Something as simple as a new batch of forage can precipitate this, even in horses that usually cope OK on such a regime, but so can stepping up the hard feed as work increases or for more condition.  Also don’t forget the power of spring grass which is lush and sugary at this time of year. For horses for which the excitement of the day ahead gets in the way of settling into their feed, tricks like feeding at the front of the stable, frequent small meals , turning out, or providing a companion may help. Finally for sudden loss of appetite in a horse, especially those that are good eaters, you cannot rule out illness or disease, so if in any doubt, check the vital signs and consult with your vet. Tips for tempting fussy feeders:  Turn out to chill out:  increase the time turned out, especially if the horse can have a pick of grass while out.  Variety: research has shown that horses increase their time spent eating if they are offered variety whether it is in the forages offered or in feed toppings, as this helps recreate the natural browsing instinct and extends eating time.  Go for a high fibre diet:  As well as that supplied by forage and chaff, look to add extra fibre in cunning ways , such as with a fibre block or changing the hard feed to one high in fibre. Gorse:  this old wives tale does seem to work.  A stick of gorse in the manger is said to encourage appetite, even if it sounds a bit prickly! Added vitamins: Vitamin B12 injections are often used as a pick me up, and to perk up a jaded appetite.  B-vitamins are produced by the hindgut so if there is anything amiss with its function, a course of B vitamins may help. Make the meal more tempting:  offer less per meal, and feed more meals per day; also mix in something highly appetising to make the meal more interesting by using products such as : Simplyirresistible is a healthy & delicious feed-topping bursting with goodness, designed to liven up mealtimes and support a healthy gut. Made from only natural ingredients and available in two tasty varieties, simplyirrestistible can be sprinkled on top of hard feed, chaff or forage to add flavour and variety to dull everyday feeds. Simplyirresistible can also be fed to good doers on restricted diets, to tempt picky eaters or ideal to feed  with medication or supplements in a hard feed. Each variety is packed full with an array of delicious tastes and textures, is full of natural plant antioxidants and contains a proven probiotic to support digestive health and help the horse get the most out of its feed. Ruth Bishop BSc (Hons) Dip Eq S Ruth is well-recognised in the world of equine nutrition, as a consultant and as a former technical director of a large horse feed manufacturer.  She also wrote the Dr Ruth nutrition column in Horse and Hound for many years, and is the author of the Horse Nutrition Bible (David & Charles).  She has in the past provided nutrition inputs to the British Equestrian Federation World Class Performance squads.  

What are the challenges of feeding a laminitis prone or overweight horse? We understand that when you have a horse or pony that is prone to laminitis – such as one that easily gains weight or has had laminitis before – managing his diet and alleviating boredom is priority. Dietary guidance is readily available. This includes restricting or removing grazing time, turning out at night, reducing the soluble carbohydrate content of the diet, or implementing a weight loss programme with limited amounts of feed and increased exercise. In practice, however, this means a laminitis-prone horse spends more time indoors without much to eat.  As an example, an overweight pony on a restricted diet could receive, per day, as little as 2 slices of hay, a scoop of balancer and a scoop of feed specifically formulated for laminitis. Such meagre portions may be effective against laminitis, but this routine can mean long periods without food. This can lead to behavioural problems linked with boredom or result in gastric health issues.  Horses are grazers which mean they are born snackers! They are designed to eat 24/7. So, how can we manage laminitis and weight and still ensure our horses get the grazing time they need?  Vitamunch offers a healthy snack for laminitis and weight management Brighten up the life of your overweight or laminitis-prone horse or pony with Vitamunch – the healthy equine snack with added benefits. Our range of Vitamunch healthy snacks offer a unique solution to ensuring your laminitis-prone horse has access to food over longer periods of the day and night. If your horse is at risk of laminitis, then adding Vitamunch to his feeding regime can help, because: the quality-assured, high fibre, low calorie, low sugar composition with added vitamins and minerals complies with published dietary recommendations for laminitic horses; the timothy fibre base of Vitamunch is beneficial for horse’s digestive system; Vitamunch snacks are eaten slowly because the compressed form encourages nibbling, and when fed in the innovative Munch Net, eating time is extended even further; portion control is easy since each Vitamunch snack weighs just 1kg Struggling to get your horse or pony to eat their medication? Our horses and ponies seem to be great at sniffing out anything different in their feeds, especially if they are receiving small portions for weight reasons. Simply Irresistible is designed to disguise medications and supplements, and contains a probiotic too, to help support the digestive system. Not sure your horse is getting everything they need? Generally, a good quality diet of fibre and hard feed is usually sufficient to meet your horse’s daily nutritional needs. However if your horse is a good doer on a restricted diet, there’s a chance they might not be getting everything they need. A multivitamin, such as Simply Sunshine, could help fill the gaps to support a balanced diet.

Equine Nutritionist, Ruth Bishop BSc (Hons) Dip EqSc considers some good general principles of the nutritional management of the competition horse, looking at how to feed your horse before, during and after an event. Feeding and nutrition have important supporting roles as one component of your management “tool box”, alongside training, veterinary monitoring, good farriery, physiotherapy, sports psychology and the like. It requires both long term and short term strategies: long term its about finding a combination of forage, feeds and supplements that work for your horse, whilst short-term competition-day feed tactics can help ensure the best performance on the day, and help recovery afterwards. Horses are of course individuals – the way they hold condition, their temperament, and the work and training level they are at are unique to each. However what and when you feed your horse influences all of these – as well as their basic health. As a horse’s workload increases, many physiological changes take place, from increased blood flow to the tissues, increased tissue damage (often at a microscopic level) that requires ongoing repair, and changes in bone density. All these mean that the horse requires an increased plane of nutrition: not only in terms of energy, but also in relation to amino acids, vitamins and minerals. It’s also a paradox of feeding that the harder we work horses, the more we challenge the natural function of the digestive tract by feeding against its design. Inner health is key The digestive tract as a whole is a huge organ that accounts for about 15% of a horse’s total weight when full, and is designed for the evolutionary horse that roamed plains, constantly eating fibrous feedstuffs. This means they have a relatively small stomach and small intestine, followed by a large fibre-fermenting hindgut. Given its size, ensuring the digestive tract functions correctly is essential for health and behaviour. The challenge with competition horse is that we often want and need to feed them differently to free roaming grazing animals, with small discrete meals and restricted forage. For the competition horse, forage, and more importantly, the fibre it supplies, are essential for inner health as the large intestine comprises approximately two thirds of the digestive tract. Changes to the diet or restricted forage can affect hindgut function and may cause colic or other digestive upset. Forage and fibre can also help to protect against gastric ulcers. Horses have evolved to consume ad lib fibre and so its relatively small stomach produces gastric acid continuously to begin the digestive process. However saliva is only produced when chewing, so that if there is a gap between feeds, acid builds up in the stomach with the result that it can reach unprotected parts of the stomach, causing ulcers. Since fibre takes longer to chew than compound feeds, it reduces the time for that acid to build up. Fibre is also thought to produce a fibrous “matrix” within the stomach that prevents gastric acid from “splashing” into unprotected parts of the stomach. Increasing the length of time a horse spends eating fibre via short or long chopped fibre sources reduces the risk of gastric ulcers. The importance of good forage Given that it forms the largest part of many horse’s diets, forage is often taken for granted as an inert base to the diet, contributing bulk but not much else. As a result it receives little attention in terms of understanding its quality and contribution to the diet. There are many kinds of forage available e.g. grass, hay, haylage, and each is inherently variable in their moisture energy and protein contents, and so can have a major impact on a competition horse. Additionally a concern with hay is its potential dust content in relation to respiratory irritation and disease. Haylage is largely dust-free, but is consumed faster than hay, and can be nutritionally richer, which may not make it the ideal replacement in every case. Another challenge with haylage can be portion control – large bales or compressed small bales and variable moisture contents make it difficult to measure the precise amount of fibre the horse receives. These considerations are especially important in relation to the fine-tuned diets of competition horses, such that all competition diets should begin with a forage plan. Consider which forage; how much (little or large) does your horse work best off; can you source quality and consistent material; does this provide a decent base level of fibre (e.g. at least 50% of intake) and if not how other sources of fibre can be incorporated into the diet to help support digestive health. Power, control and condition Another main feeding challenge is maintaining the balance between power, control and condition, especially as work intensity increases. Generally one of three things happens – You increase the feed rate as the amount of work increases but this negatively affects the horse’s behaviour As work rate increases or the competition season gets going, your horse drops condition. This is difficult to replace with increased feed because it has an adverse affect on his behaviour. You have a good doer who although you want to feed more to support more work, just gets bigger. With modern feeds there are plenty of options in the balance of energy sources to help manage each of these scenarios. Energy sources available to horses from their feed and forage are: Fibre: fermentable in the hindgut, made up of plant cellulose, hemicellulose and pectins. The nature of the fibre affects the speed at which the microbes in the hindgut break it down and therefore its energy content. Starch and sugar (also known as non-structural carbohydrates): these are digested by enzymes in the small intestine and are rapidly available. Oil: Horses can digest and utilise oil well as an energy source. Nutritionists recommend that for every 100mls added, extra Vitamin E is added to the diet to help cope with the added free radicals such high oil produces. Competition day itself Whilst competition day is what you have been building up for, it also represent a massive change in daily routine for the horse with added travel and excitement. There is much debate as to what to feed on competition day. It’s tempting to withhold forage on the way there to keep the horse light, but the current consensus is that feeding concentrates less than 5 hours before a competition is not beneficial. This is because not only does it take several hours to digest and process a meal, but the horse has already got stored in its muscles the energy needed for the day ahead. Competition day management should therefore be focused on health – so provide plenty of water, and in terms of actual feed, feeding small amounts of forage in the morning allows the horse to chew, provides fibre into the delicate stomach and hindgut, and has a lesser metabolic impact than a starchy meal. In summary, when feeding the competition horse, little should be left to chance. Day to day digestive health is paramount, but so is making sure the overall diet is calculated and fine-tuned for the individual. Competition day management is also important to get the best out of the horse on the day. Munch Fibre Blocks provide a convenient way to feed quality forage before, during and after competition. The compressed 1kg blocks of timothy grass, each with added vitamins, minerals and herbs are sealed in packs which can be stored without opening ready for use at any time. Restricted forage? For competition horses that keep their condition well and for whom forage and other feeds are restricted, feeding munch™ blocks provides a low energy, portion-controlled way of providing high quality fibre together with vitamins and minerals in the diet. Each munch™ block weighs 1kg and when fed in the unique munch net can last over an hour. For haylage based diets that tend to be eaten more quickly than hay, a munch™ block offers a consistent, high fibre, low energy, long-lasting addition for horses standing in for long periods of time. On competition day, munch™ blocks provides a perfect fit on competition day. It makes the ideal morning fibre “chaser” to keep the digestive system healthy ahead of the day’s work; it can provide a boredom breaker for long periods waiting in the lorry or trailer, or on late running days. Fortified with additional vitamins and minerals it provides additional nutritional support on the day, and the compact, packaged form mean it fits well into any travelling situation with minimal mess; Find out more about the full munch™ range of healthy snacks with added benefits. Feeding Post Competition After the competition is over, feeding and nutrition tactics should focus on rehydration and replacement of energy reserves and nutrients. The effort of competing together with the excitement of the day mean the horse has used up muscle energy reserves – how much or little depends on the intensity of the effort. Fast or intense work efforts such as cross country, polo, endurance, show jumping or point-to-pointing utilise muscle glycogen stores, which provide instant energy during work, but once used up take 72 hours to restore. (Less intense work efforts are unlikely to have used up muscle glycogen however). After sweating Generally, after the competition, offer plenty of water plus electrolytes after exercise, taking care for it not to be too cold or for the horse to drink too much in one go. When it is particularly hot or humid or the horse is competing in particularly hard work the horse may need an electrolyte replacer added to its feed or water. Also offer plenty of forage for the horse to nibble at. A small hard (concentrate) feed, once the horse is cool and relaxed, will begin to replenish lost glycogen stores or bodyweight. Electrolytes, principally sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium and magnesium, are responsible for the correct function of nerves and muscles. They also help maintain normal hydration and are integral in maintaining the functioning of the digestive system, and the other vital organs. One litre of horse sweat contains around 3.5g of sodium, 6g of chloride, 1.2g of potassium and 0.1g of calcium

The digestive system of the modern horse The evolutionary horse was constantly on the move, covering large distances across grassy plains, browsing and foraging as it went. The digestive system of the modern horse is still that which evolved to serve the lifestyle of little-and-often feeding. As such there remains an intrinsic need to eat for the majority of the day in horses today. The digestive tract is huge and accounts for about 15% of a horse’s total weight when full. The process of digestion breaks down the feedstuffs a horse eats into various sub-units that can be digested, absorbed and utilised by the individual cells of the body. Principally the horse operates a dual system of digestion – a foregut that digests simple carbohydrate sources, proteins and oils, and a large hindgut for digesting fibre. The digestive system from start to finish: The Mouth Food is taken into the mouth either by the lips, or, in the case of forage, torn by the incisor teeth. The horse is able to use its lips to deftly select (or otherwise) its preferences – we all know plenty of horses that can pick out the bits they don’t like from their feed. The dental arcade of the horse consists of sharp biting teeth at the front, the incisors, followed further up the jaw by the chewing and grinding teeth of the premolars and molars. The rhythmical chomping sound that horses make when chewing is one of the signs of a contented horse. Chewing and grinding break the food down into tiny particles for mixing with saliva. The more chewing, the smaller the particles, and the more mixing with saliva, which then lubricates the bolus of food that passes down to the stomach. Chewing time is longer for hay than compound feeds – per kilo of hay a horse produces typically 6 litres of saliva, compared to only about 2 litres for the equivalent weight of compound. The Stomach The stomach is small in comparison to the rest of the digestive tract, holding typically 9-15 litres, accounting for about 10% of the digestive capacity, and as it works best when approximately two thirds full, its active capacity is therefore less. This relatively small size of the stomach reflects the little and often way a horse evolved to receive its food. A large stomach isn’t necessary when food is constant. A quirk of this design however is that the stomach produces acid continuously regardless of whether food is there or not. This is in contrast to the mouth, which only produces saliva when the horse chews. This continual production of gastric acid is thought to lie behind the development of certain stereotypical behaviours and also gastric ulcers in horses that spend periods without access to food, that then produce only limited amounts of any acid-buffering saliva. The Small Intestine Like the stomach, the small intestine is relatively small compared to the total digestive capacity of the horse, again reflecting the little and often, high fibre diet of the horse. The small intestine is a narrow tube of about 25 metres in length and comprises about 20% of the horses digestive capacity. Starches, sugar, protein and oils are digested here, as are minerals, trace elements and vitamins A, D and E. Depending on the diet, food particles can pass through the small intestine typically between 45 minutes and two hours. Again its size reflects the evolutionary need -to digest the naturally low or moderate amounts of soluble carbohydrates, protein etc., in a mainly fibrous diet. The large Intestine Animals cannot digest fibre by themselves – they do so in a symbiotic relationship with microbes, whereby fibre is broken down by microbial fermentation. In the horse, this fermentation takes place in the large intestine or hindgut. This comprises about two-thirds of the whole digestive tract, and can hold about 30 gallons (about 100 litres) of water and food. Here the microbes ferment fibre, together with any starches, sugars, oils and proteins that have by-passed the small intestine. In horses on a principally forage diet, feedstuffs can stay in the hindgut for as long as 48 hours. Absorbed from the hindgut are the volatile fatty acids and B vitamins generated by the microbial fermentation of fibre, plus water and some minerals, notably phosphorous. The microbial population adapts to match the kind of diet it receives. Any sudden changes to the horse’s overall diet will not give the microbes time to adapt and can cause digestive upset. Such changes are usually the result of sudden drops in fibre or forage intake, or from large excesses of starch and sugar arriving from the small intestine, for instance if hard feed intake is increased suddenly.

In the wild horses browse almost continuously, nibbling small parts from a variety of plants, and taking in relatively small amounts per bite. It’s well known that this intrinsic need to snack remains in our own horses. It’s what they are designed to do Horses are browsing herbivores that have evolved over the centuries to process the grasses, shrubs and other herbaceous plants that formed their natural diet for millennia. Fibre from forage remains the most important part of the diet. As a basic rule of thumb, a horse should eat a minimum of 1% of its bodyweight per day as forage-fibre. This is equivalent to 5kg for a 500kg horse. Their digestive system fits with the principle of frequent small meals: saliva is only produced when chewing – on the basis that a horse expects to chew for a large proportion of the time. 1 kilo of dry forage for instance requires approximately 3400 chews. In addition, horses have relatively small stomachs that continuously produce acid to begin the breakdown of the feedstuffs (on the basis that food is consumed almost continuously); and a relatively small small-intestine. However they have a highly developed large intestines hindgut adapted to digest the natural fibre in the diet. But they don’t always get the chance In the wild, horses browse and forage for food for 16-18 hours per day. Domesticated horses, even those stabled, will eat for 60% of the time when given free access to forage. But there are many instances when a horse does not get an opportunity to munch for the extended time it is hardwired to expect, for example – When fed a restricted diet – overweight or those prone to laminitis may be on restricted rations to aid weight loss; When forage is not ad lib, particularly some haylages that can be eaten quickly. Competition and racehorses where the energy demands of their sport mean that less forage is consumed and increased levels of compound feed. Compound feed is eaten much more quickly than forages. At a show, when waiting between classes or for the prize-giving When waiting in for the vet or farrier Long periods without food, against their physiological design, can affect both mental and physical health. Gastric ulcers occur as a result of the imbalance between continuously produced acid and buffering saliva arriving intermittently via discrete meals; stereotypical behaviours may be associated with same or be related to the innate need to browse and chew not being fully met.   The munch factor - let them snack... In these situations born snackers can have snacks, but these must have the following essentials features: A perfect digestive fitThe ability to satisfies foraging instinctsSome added nutritional worthBe eaten slowlyAnd be store and feed.

As winter rolls in, the sight of waterlogged fields and thick mud oozing over your boots is all too familiar for horse owners. If your horse suffers from mud fever, these conditions can be even more daunting. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to protect your equine friend. Here's your guide to understanding and preventing mud fever. What is Mud Fever? Mud fever is a common skin complaint that generally arises during winter and early spring. It typically affects the pastern and heel area, causing painful sores and scabs. However, it can extend to the upper legs, belly, and in rare cases, even the neck, where it’s referred to as rain scald. Severe cases may lead to lameness, swelling, and long-term skin damage. What causes Mud Fever? Mud fever is caused by a bacterial infection, most commonly by Dermatophilus congolensis. Under normal conditions, a horse’s skin acts as a strong barrier against harmful bacteria. However, constant exposure to wet and muddy environments weakens this barrier. Here’s how it is believed to happen: Skin Damage: Abrasive grit from wet soil compromises the skin’s outer layer. Prolonged Dampness: Continuous moisture softens and breaks down the skin, making it easier for bacteria to penetrate. Horses with white legs are more susceptible due to the sensitive nature of lighter skin. However, mud fever can affect any horse, regardless of breed or age. Preventing Mud Fever The best way to deal with mud fever is to prevent it. Follow these practical tips to keep your horse safe this winter: 1. Maintain Your Paddocks Rotational Grazing: Rotate paddocks to prevent overuse and poaching. Improved Drainage: Add hardcore or gravel to high-traffic areas like gateways to improve footing and drainage. Fencing: Use electric fencing to keep horses out of the deepest mud. 2. Groom Smarter Avoid Over-Washing: Resist the urge to hose your horse’s legs daily. Instead, allow mud to dry and brush it off with a soft-bristled brush. Dry Thoroughly: If you must rinse, ensure the legs are dried completely with a clean towel to prevent lingering moisture. 3. Protect the Skin Barrier Creams: Apply a barrier cream to form a protective layer against mud. Many horse owners swear by Sudocrem® or similar nappy rash creams. Turnout Boots: Breathable turnout boots are excellent for shielding legs from mud and moisture. They provide an extra layer of protection while allowing the skin to breathe. What if Your Horse Has Mud Fever? If prevention fails and your horse develops mud fever, early treatment is essential: Keep Them Dry: Remove your horse from muddy environments as much as possible. Clip the Area: Carefully trim hair around the affected region to allow better access and airflow. Soften and Remove Scabs: Apply an antibacterial cream to soften scabs before gently removing them. Clean and Protect: Clean the area with a mild antibacterial wash and apply a protective cream. If symptoms persist or worsen, or you are in any way concerned, always consult your veterinarian immediately. Severe cases may require more intensive treatment, such as antibiotics or skin grafts. Looking for Extra Protection? Why not try our Equi-Chaps Close Contact Chaps? These breathable turnout boots are designed to protect your horse’s legs from mud, wet, and cold, acting as a second skin. With four-way stretch for a close fit, while allowing freedom of movement, they provide comfort and practicality, making them an excellent choice for winter turnout. Key Features: Covers from knee/hock to below the coronet band. Suitable for both front and hind legs. Keeps mud and moisture out while allowing skin to breathe. Conclusion Mud fever can be painful and frustrating, but with proper paddock management, smart grooming, and protective measures, you can minimise the risks. Stay vigilant this winter and give your horse the care they need to stay happy and healthy. Protect their legs, prevent mud fever, and enjoy a stress-free season!

Over the past few years, the equine world has exploded with new products, and not in the least when it comes to boots for your horse or pony. But where do you start when there is so much available? Sometimes it is simply best to go back to basics and in this instance, what could be a more obvious choice than the unassuming Brushing Boot. Here we have explored some of the most frequently asked questions about brushing boots, to help you make the best decision the next time you’re shopping for boots for your four-legged companion: What is a brushing boot? Brushing boots (traditionally referred to as splint boots) are a type of protective boot used to protect the lower part of the horse’s leg. Originally, these boots were made from traditional materials such as leather, however, in 1981 Louise Woof designed the first brushing boot to be made from neoprene; thus paving the way for the vast assortment of modern horse boots to be made from synthetic materials. What is a brushing boot used for and why? Brushing Boots are a popular choice of boot to protect the horse’s lower leg during exercise from ‘brushing’ injuries. These are injuries that may occur if one leg, or hoof, strikes the opposite leg. These types of injuries are often seen during fast work, such as jumping or lunging, but brushing boots can also provide protection from minor scrapes and injuries during schooling, hacking, or turnout. Does my horse need brushing boots? Most ridden horses are likely to need leg protection at some point in time; and if you are unsure of the type of protection your horse needs, a pair of brushing boots is a good place to start! Often regarded as the most basic of horse boots, brushing boots are a staple piece of equipment for most horse owners. These boots offer effective protection against injury and light compression around the cannon bone, that can provide a supportive feeling for many horses, as well as reassurance for the rider. The modern brushing boot is also likely to be lightweight, durable and the most cost-effective boot for everyday use. Some are used regularly for turnout too as a lightweight and comfortable option for wearing all day. How do I find the right size? Whilst sizing of brushing boots is likely to vary from brand to brand, there are a few key features you can look out for to make sure you have the best size and fit for your horse: Take measurements. Most boot brands will offer boots in sizes ‘small’, ‘medium’ and ‘large’ or ‘pony’, ‘cob’ and ‘full’, but these can be rather abstract terms (as many of us will have experienced when trying to shop for clothes – one shop’s ‘small’ is another’s ‘extra large’!), so having an idea of your horse or pony’s actual measurements can help. Particularly as it is not uncommon to need one size for the front legs, and a different size for the hind legs Look at the strike pad. The size and shape of the strike pad can not only dictate the amount of protection the boot can offer, but it can also influence how the boot stays in place on a horse’s leg. For example, a large round oval shape strike pad may appear to provide a large area of protection, but if fitted to a fine leg may cause the boots to twist or drop during use. Look at the straps. The humble brushing boot is now available with every type of strap or fixing system imaginable; single lock, double lock, strapless, stud… The list goes on! When choosing your boots, be sure to look for a fixing system that is quick and easy to fit and remove, but that is also going to be secure. What if a brushing boot is not enough? For many horses in low to mid-level work, a set of brushing boots provides ample protection for everyday knocks and scrapes. For higher impact disciplines or horses who need more protection, you may wish to look for a boot that has additional areas of strike protection, like the Tri-Zone All Sports Boots or Impact Sports Boots. So what’s the verdict? A good pair of brushing boots should certainly be on the list of ‘must-have’ items for any horse owner, but there are points to consider before purchasing. Performance, fit, and protection are all key factors when choosing your new brushing boots. Many riders now look for a balance between fashion and function when purchasing new products, and whilst it’s important to look and feel good with your horse, your boots should always be up to the task of protecting your horse’s delicate legs.

Horse & Hound’s Alice Collins gives her first 10/10 product score to Tri-Zone All Sports Boots. Overall Verdict“These boots do exactly what they say on the tin, I cannot fault these boots – they are ideal for all uses” “They’re billed as ‘robust and versatile’ …. perfect for a range of activities from hacking and schooling to jumping and galloping” Read the full review on Horse & Hound.