Absolute Horse March 2017

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F

E M K ’M C -I !

PI P EE U R

Absolute

MARCH 2017

g n i w o Sh -up!

Round

- Full details inside

Rob Walker’s Showing tips - Page 14

Succeed in Showing with Jo Bates - Page 16

East Anglian Game & Country Fair - Page 32

PLUS

SEIB series dates - Page 8

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MARCH

2017 8

21

24

26

30

ISSUE 309

All the fun of the show!

Suffolk Show details on page 8.

16 FEATURES 8 Showing Roundup 14 Ride Like...Robert Walker 16 Ride Like...Jo Bates 18 Laminitis: Is it Avoidable?

24 Health & Welfare 33 Buyer’s Guide 34 Paddocks & Pastures

36 38

Transport Saddlery & Tack

PHOTONEWS 44 Beccles & Bungay Riding Club Dressage

COMPETITIONS & GIVEAWAYS 21 Horslyx 32 East Anglian Game & Country Fair tickets

Though every attempt is made to ensure accuracy, PCD Media Ltd cannot be held responsible for the opinions expressed in the magazine.

The opinions and technical information in the articles are those of the authors.

01473 731220

How to contact us...

WHAT’s

InsIde

REGULARS 4 News Your Comments 6 29 Meta Fitness 40 Reports 46 Classifieds 48 Vets In The Spotlight 49 Showdates Diary

emma@ahmagazine.com

www.absolutehorsemagazine.com www.issuu.com

PCD Media (East Anglia) Ltd Home Barn, Grove Hill, Belstead, Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3LS. Find us on facebook 3

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NEWS Polocrosse Training nags EssEnTials: Weekend and Tournament 20Th - 21sT May SpoNSoR The PC Area 8 Polocrosse Training Weekend and HoRSE tRiAlS Tournament is open to all Pony Club members East Anglia’s leading equestrian retailer is to support Burnham Market and Houghton 2017 events.

King’s Lynn-based equestrian retailer Nags Essentials is among the companies supporting next month’s Barefoot Estates Burnham Market International Horse Trials on 13th April, and the Houghton International Horse Trials on 25th May. At Burnham, Nags Essentials will support the trials as a fence sponsor, while at Houghton it is set to sponsor the unaffiliated showjumping and inter-schools showjumping classes, along with an arena area.

The company, which has a 4,000 sq. ft. King’s Lynn store, recently re-launched its online store, nagsessentials.com, and regularly exhibits at many of the UK’s horse shows.

“Since 2008, we’ve been providing high quality equestrian products and clothing,” says managing director Steve Hodgson, “and we’re delighted that Nags Essentials continues to be a sponsor of these prestigious events. We will be at the shows and lending our support to many local riders, so we look forward to welcoming visitors to our stand.”

regardless of ability and is a PC Champs Qualifying Event.

All fully paid up PC members, who have completed 3 rallies and attend this event will be eligible to play at the PC Champs on the 18th and 19th August at Cholmondely Castle.

Call Caro Daniels 07802 325466.

March 25th is National Equestrian Safety Day, a safety awareness day aimed specifically at the equestrian community.

Heralded by the Mark Davies Injured Riders Fund, the day aims to highlight the importance of thinking, acting and being safe around horses as equestrians become more active as the season progresses. http://mdirf.co.uk/nesd/

EasT anglian aiR aMbulanCE... and a fEW CaMEls!

25th

MaRCh

NESD

Musketeer Event Management (MEM), organiser of Barefoot Estates Burnham Market and Houghton International Horse Trials, has named the East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) as its official charity for 2017.

With a fund raising goal of £11million this year alone, the challenge is always to create innovative ways of inspiring people to donate – and the EAAA have come up trumps again. Camel racing.

On one day at each event, pre-selected jockeys will take to their camels in a five heat contest between eventing classes, before the heat winners fight it out for the main prize. Anyone able to ride a horse with a certain amount of competence can apply for one of the coveted race places, those selected being asked to raise £500 in sponsorship for the charity.

Burnham Market International takes place from 13th-15th April, while Houghton International runs from 25th-28th May. www.musketeer.co.uk

January Winners: Ridersmate Denise Baldry, Suffolk. Robinsons First Aid Kit Alexis Smith, Suffolk; Eleanor Jane Simmons, Essex; Kira Schaefer, Suffolk; Lea Goodwin, Essex; Rachel Griffin, Essex; Ruth Keen, Norfolk. TopSpec Elly Hardesty, Norfolk; Jessica Cook, Norfolk; Mrs C Sheldrick, Essex; Nicola Edwins, Beds. Sarah Ahrens, Norfolk.

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CAtCH All tHE ACtioN At

Photo: Action Replay Photography

POPlaR PaRK tHiS MoNtH! POPLAR PARK HORSE TRIALS 11TH-12TH MARCH Attracting some of the leading names in eventing, Poplar Park is taking place on 11th-12th March with a new second fixture on 20th-21st May. Visitors to this long-established event in the stunning Suffolk countryside will be able to enjoy all the dressage, showjumping and cross-country action.

Poplar Park Organisers described it as, “A great day out for the whole family; put us in your diary now!”

Each car displaying a current BE membership card will be admitted

free unless there are non member passengers when the charge will be £5 per car. General public will be charged £15 per car.

All profits go to the chosen charities Woodbridge Injured Soldiers Fund, Riding for the Disabled, and East Anglian Air Ambulance. www.poplarpark.co.uk

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l Saturday 8th apri

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Extra discounts on selective products on selective days!

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Stockists of Major Brands incl: Allen & Page, Spillers, Baileys, Dodson & Horrell, Dengie, TopSpec, Simple Systems, Honeychop, Mollichaff, EH Haylage, Hunters/Snowflake/Sundown Bedding.

Plus feeds for Dogs, Cats, Poultry, Sheep, Pigs & Goats and not forgetting the birds!

Call today for a friendly and efficient service - delivery available too.

Full, standard & DIY Livery available - please see website for more information or call to arrange a viewing of our faclilities. Full list of our Shows and Clinics are on our website and Horsedates - see what we can do for you today...

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Free pair of ARIAT boots of your choice to the value of £320 to be won...plus lots of great prizes!

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your commENt Every month we pose a question on the Absolute horse magazine Facebook page – for your chance to win the Ariat prize simply post ‘your comment’ in answer to our question, and the best answer wins!

Sponsored by

Ariat offer you the chance to win a pair of Olympia Full Seat or Knee Patch Breeches worth over £115!

We asked our acebook fans the following question...

Lyndsey Ryder We sing a special song on route in the lorry... we have to sing loudly so the horses in the back can hear!

Alice Cutter My left sock, boot and spur have to go on first at a competition.

Carrie Munro My horse is called Olaf and quite ironically we sing Let It Go to get a nice rhythm, if you hear us please say hello!

Heidi Sharp My 99p comb from the village shop for my quarter markings!

Monique Sharp Our number to be or add up to 13.

Gina Bruce Have to see and salute 2 magpies...also couldn't be without the Tesco Express shopping basket on wheels (naughty, I know) it's fab for brushes, boots, whips etc, can get loads in it although we do get some funny looks!

Vikki Atherton My husband’s hair wax to plait up! (Just don't tell him)

Ariat’s olympia Full Seat breeches and Knee patch breeches feature four-way stretch Schoeller fabric for maximum comfort and mobility, stretch clarino full seat, front zip and unique hand pocket design with piping effect. Ariat’s patented V3 System in the waist and calf Fit System ensure these breeches not only perform in the saddle but look great too. Sizes: 22 – 36 (regular and long fit available). colours: White, beige, Navy or black.

Visit www.ariat.com or call 01367 242818.

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Abi Jacobs At a competition I always have to wear or use something new... my sock drawer is a tad full!

Eleanor Laws I have to wear my lucky stirrups.

Anna French A packet of baby wipes!

Lauren Rice Mum’s advice! She

annoyingly is always right!

WhAt iS thE oNE itEm, routiNE or SupErStitioN you could Not bE Without WhEN EithEr At homE or compEtiNg?

Abbie Oliver-Wilson Sports bra.

Bex Cross Out competing it would be my 2 incredible best friends who have spent hours waiting for classes, being chauffeurs, preening my horses to perfection, taking endless photos, putting up with nervous tantrums and making every trip out a complete laugh over the years. Can’t imagine an outing without them and can’t thank them enough, bring on 2017!

Nadine Willis My husband! He knows the drill with everything.

He’s my chauffeur, groom, destresser, mind coach, ring groom, bank, you name it he does it. I cannot go to a show without him otherwise I’m super anxious.

Holly Baker My pony! Whenever I forget my lucky pony I always do really badly... don’t know why?!

Vicki Rudd Matching underwear... if anything bad happens on a ride at least my underwear matches!

Tracey Atter Having a bird pooh on my car is lucky for me!

Jenni Revilles My lucky socks, bright pink with Dalmatians on them. Not sure where I will get some more when they wear out!

Rachael Bryce Omg! Too many to list! Have to see and salute 2 magpies (at least). Tonnes of wet wipes. 2 shirts and 2 pairs of jods (in case!). Definitely something new and my lucky stock pin!

Faye Bircher Out competing if I ever wore anything new I always fell off so had to wear it at home first and would be fine.

Kerry Wilson Always put right boot on first. Start out right and you’ll be right all day!

Sue Cross Ear plugs!

Nancy Lauren Fryatt Tew I give my horse a peck on the nose before I get on...just so he knows I am the best mummy he could ever wish for.

Laura Eaton Lucky knickers and lucky stock pin. Stock pin was bought for me by my mum when I was 12 (now 40), can't be without!

Janice Downey My copy of Absolute Horse!

Leanne Hilton I always have to have 13 plaits in for showing if I don’t one, I freak out; two, we never get placed because I'm freaking out!

and the star Winner is...Samantha Dean Sorry, i have to say it but big comfy Bridget Jones knickers!

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ShoWiNg rouNdup

! e n i h S

T

he eagerly awaited dates for the 2017 SEIB Search for A Star and SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse showing series have been announced, and there will be new opportunities for competitors as a result of a revised schedule for 2017.

A new Working Show Horse/Pony class will be incorporated into the 2017 Search for a Star schedule to replace the former Working Hunter, Riding Club Show Horse and Show/Show Hunter Pony classes. It is envisaged at this stage that competitors will be asked to negotiate two straight forward fences and complete an individual show instead of horses being ridden by a ride Judge. The changes mean that adults and children can compete on horses and ponies of any show type, and traditional coloured horses, ‘coblets’ and mountain and moorland types will be eligible, provided they can jump a small fence.

There will be a horse and a pony section at each venue and the winners will earn a coveted place in the prestigious SEIB Search for a Star final at the Horse of The Year Show (HOYS).

The 2017 Search for a Star series will also offer classes for Riding Horse/Hack, Cob and Hunters.

The team of regular Judges,

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Richard Ramsay, David Ingle and Jane Hubbard, together with occasional guest Judges, have many years’ experience in the show ring and are very helpful.

There is usually an opportunity after each class to speak with the Judges who will offer advice on how to improve your horse for the show ring.

Held in conjunction with the Search for a Star classes, the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse Show Championship encourages the re-education of exracehorses, re-training them and preparing them for a new career as show horses. The series runs six qualifiers throughout the country, with winners earning a coveted HOYS ticket. The classes are open to both amateur and professional producers and horses must have a legitimate racing record, but no registration with ANY organisation is required.

Leading equine Insurance brokers, SEIB Insurance Brokers provide cover for horses, horse boxes, yards and much more. “I am very excited to be able to offer this new class, which will allow more show types to enter Search for a Star and give more amateur riders the chance to achieve their dream of riding at The Horse of the Year Show. The standard is exceptional and we are delighted to give so many

Photo: ES Photography

time to...

riders this opportunity”, said Nicolina MacKenzie, Marketing Manager at SEIB Insurance Brokers.

Equestrian Centre, Bucks.

Qualifiers will be held at:

3rd September - (Racehorse to Riding Horse Qualifier Only) Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials, Lincs.

23rd April - Osbaldeston Riding Centre, Lancs.

21st May - Stretcholt Equestrian Centre, Somerset.

18th June - The College Equestrian Centre, Bedford.

6th August - Vale View Equestrian Centre, Leicestershire.

Finals, Horse of The Year Show 4th – 8th October at Birmingham NEC.

16th July - Bury Farm

the Search for A Star competition rules, comprehensive information, a downloadable schedule and entry form will be available from: www.search4astar.org.uk www.racehorse2ridinghorse.co.uk

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which Society?

rse Show o H r o s d in Royal W The Show will take place from 10th14th May. Over 55,000 visitors are expected to attend the Show which offers its audience an extensive programme of first class equestrian competition and displays in 5 arenas.

Her Majesty the Queen has attended every year since it started in 1943 and it is the only time of the year that the private grounds of Windsor Castle are open to the public.

ciety o S e s r o H Ipswich The IHS committee are now working hard with the final arrangements for this year’s very popular Spring show at Trinity Park on 17th April. A new and revised schedule will be available to download from the website and HorseDates or hard copies can be picked up from local tack shops.

All funds raised will be donated to BumbleBee Children’s Charity, based at Sproughton.

The show will include Showjumping, Dressage, In-hand and Ridden Showing classes. www.theipswichhorsesociety.onesuffolk.net

SuFFolk Show

new claSSeS For unaFFiliated ridden hunterS, in-hand clydeSdale horSeS and M&M lead rein ponieS

There are lots of societies in Showing and it can be confusing when deciding which Society to join. To have fun and compete at your local shows most of the time you do not need to be a member of any organisation.

However TSR advises you look at what shows you would like to attend, and if you are aiming for a Championship Show check to see if you need to be a Member to qualify.

This will help you decide who to join as most societies will require you to be a Member to qualify... but not with TSR! You do not need to be a TSR Member to qualify or enter a TSR Final but there are great benefits if you do.

With a £24 TSR Membership you could receive over £40 worth of benefits: Sashes to all Members at TSR Showing Finals; Members-only classes; medal awards; discount on clinics and entries; 10% off Smart Grooming; colour approved lapel badge and certificate; Amateur Training Pathway and Awards; eligibility for HOYS Pony, M&M and Coloured qualifiers. www.theshowingregister.co.uk

T

he Suffolk Show, which takes place at Trinity Park in Ipswich on 31st May-1st June, hosts over 300 equine classes, showjumping, heavy horse, light horse and pony classes, driving, coaching and scurry.

There are a wide range of qualifiers on offer, including Olympia Direct (Senior and Ridden M&M), HOYS (Shire and Ridden Heavy Horse of the Year, WHP and M&M WHP), RIHS, BSPS and NPS. Judges from across the UK have been invited to officiate and are listed online now.

In addition to ridden and in-hand showing there will be International showjumping classes in the Grand Ring and a Foxhunter and 1.25m Open class in the Trinity Ring. The Grand Ring will also host the Atkinson Action Horses, featuring the horses and stunt riders from the BBC series Poldark, and the Shetland Pony Grand National.

The schedule and entry forms are available online and entries for the showing classes close on 24th March and for showjumping on 12th May. To receive a copy of the schedule by post, please send a SAE (large letter stamp) to Livestock & Equine Officer, Trinity Park, Felixstowe Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP3 8UH. www.suffolkshow.co.uk

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ShoWiNg rouNdup Schedule for the 2017 redwings Show released!

Redwings Horse Sanctuary is now welcoming entries for its annual show on Sunday 14th May at Topthorn Equestrian Centre near Stowmarket, Suffolk.

Now in its eighth year, the Redwings Show continues to provide a jam-packed schedule with classes to suit every age, ability and horse. Redwings prides itself on creating an encouraging and supportive environment for those ponies and riders who are new to the showing arena with a ring dedicated to novice classes. The Redwings Show also has plenty to offer the more experienced show-goer with working hunter classes and ridden classes.

The ever-popular Donkey Breed Society affiliated classes, heavy horse, veteran and fun classes will also be returning this year – not forgetting the rescue classes, which are a particular favourite among Redwings’ show team and competitors alike. Rescued ponies from any charity are welcome to take part.

To download the full 2017 Redwings Show schedule and for details of how to enter, visit www.redwings.org.uk/show-2017.

All your showing must-haves...

NAGS ESSENTIALS’ ULTIMATE SHOWING KIT Showing season is upon us, and all eyes are on you and your horse – to get everyone looking fabulous, Nags Essentials has created a checklist of items to stock up on to get started in style.

Clipperman Jewel Trimmer A dual speed, 12W, 3.7V animal trimmer, with a cutting speed of up to 3,350RPM. The Jewel is perfect for trimming hairs on legs, faces and for a general tidy up! Nags Essentials web exclusive price, £34.

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LeMieux Lambskin Show Numnah Brown This Merino Lambskin Numnah is available in a range of sizes, so it’s the perfect fit with most makes of show saddle. Nags Essentials web exclusive price, £85.

Equetech Wheatley Deluxe Tweed Riding Jacket

Equetech show jacket in brown herringbone tweed with striking burgundy and canary over checks and a gold Equetech jacquard lining. Nags Essentials web exclusive price, £135.

Shop online at nagsessentials.com or in-store at Unit 19, Horsley Fields, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 5DD. Tel: 01553 776897.

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Riding Boots Showing Boots & Gaiters

alltech: third year of Supporting Showing classes at hickstead Alltech, has launched their third continuous year of support for a number of showing classes at the Hickstead Derby Meeting.

Alltech will be the official sponsor of the Small Hunter Championship, the Maxi Cob, Small and Large Riding Horse classes, the Supreme Hack Championship and Working Hunter class.

Alltech will also be supporting the Show Hunter classes and the Supreme Hunter Championship, whilst also being the official sponsors of the CHAPS (UK) in-hand classes.

calf any width 13” to 19” Short leg height available Size 2 to 14 mens & ladies made-to-measure available

WArm iN WiNtEr - cool iN SummEr Special features: • climate control technology • Waterproof leather • hoof proof toe protection • Stirrup balance System

mANuFActurErS oF FiNE ridiNg bootS

made in uK

www.equitector.com telephone: 0208 090 4029

Shires Four Way Stretch Rug Four way stretch rug with full face, neck and belly flap to help keep your horse clean and improve the shine to their coat.

Nags Essentials web exclusive price, £53.99.

This versatile helmet offers a smart and classic appearance yet still provides the latest protection required by riders in all disciplines.

Nags Essentials web exclusive price, £109.

Charles Owen H2000 Velvet Riding Hat

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ShoWiNg rouNdup

The Atherstone Girth can be made to any size needed. It is made using top quality English leather and is lined in soft hide for additional comfort. RRP: £190. www.katenegus.com

Heavyweight Lead Chain combines English leather with brass and is excellent quality.

The chain is made up of a 1” leather section with loop, which connects to a brass chain with trigger clip at the end.

RRP: £60. www.katenegus.com

TheKate Negus Competition Cavesson Bridle helps to show off your horse’s best features.

The top quality English leather bridle comes with an elegant raised and blocked browband and noseband as standard.

RRP: £170.

Shampoo E These concentrated colour enhancing shampoos are an economical way of getting your horse showing their best colours. Available in Super White, Super Red, Super Black and Super Gold. Dilute or use neat on heavy stable stains. www.animal-health.co.uk

Roma Stretch Hood with Zip is ideal for keeping your horse clean and shiny in preparation for a competition.

Not only helping to keep you horse clean, the hood will also lay the coat and provide a lustrous, glossy coat to catch the eye. www.equestrian.com

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O-Mega Shine boasts 87% Omega oils, omega 3, 6 and 9. You don’t have to feed a lot to see results, between 10-15ml a day. www.animalhealth.co.uk

ManeTain is a handy spray mane and tail conditioner and detangler. This Tea tree based spray, is non greasy and non static helping to keep your horse’s mane and tail in great order. www.animalhealth.co.uk

The Black Country Saddles – Working Hunter Saddle is a traditional design, ideal for the show ring. The saddle has a close contact profile and is straight cut in style to enhance the horse’s appearance. www.blackcountrysaddles.com

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ShoWiNg: tutoriAl

Ride like...

robErt WAlKEr

IN THIS ISSUE WE TALK TO LEADING SHOWMAN ROBERT WALKER TO GAIN A FASCINATING INSIGHT INTO THE ART OF RINGCRAFT COURTESY OF HIS SPONSOR BLACK COUNTRY SADDLES.

Explains Robert: “Showing is all about presenting your horse to the Judges in their best light and playing to their strengths in order to impress them. The aim is to be pulled in at the top of the line, having accomplished a brilliant performance.”

RingCRafT - tHE Do’S & DoN’tS -

ou may be sitting on the best horse in the ring, it’s coat shining in the summer sun, with both of you turned out to perfection and your tack fitting correctly, helping to enhance the overall appearance and thinking a win could be yours for the taking.

However, if you don’t make the most of your time in the arena and catch the Judges’ attention you could easily be placed down the line and leave feeling despondent.

All riders aiming for the top need to understand that ringcraft is about presenting and showing off their horse in the arena to allow the best possible chance of impressing the Judges.

It is a skill that must be acquired by the rider in order to maximise their success in the ring.

Show riders should aim to instantly make an impact and create the best picture for the Judges.

Says Robert: “You are being judged from the moment you

Y

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which is based on a comprehensive knowledge of the requirements for each showing class. However, Judges place a different emphasis on the various criteria such as way of going, breed, correctness of conformation and manners.

Therefore the end result may depend on what the Judges are looking for on the day.

View Point, Champion Hunter at Cheshire County

step into the ring so it is important to immediately catch the Judges’ attention and make a good impression.

“In addition to emphasising all the horse’s finer points it is

Rob and Party Time 2 important to try and hide any faults your Part of the ability to be horse may have.”

The outcome of the class totally triumphant in the show ring is depends on the Judges’ opinion to campaign your horse where

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The class will then be asked to change the rein, and perform the same on the other direction.

Ordinarily the steward will tell you to change the rein at the next corner and go across on a diagonal - the gallop is used to show that your horse can extend and lower his strides without rushing. You should prepare your horse for the gallop, accelerating smoothly.

The Judge will then be looking to position everyone in the first Chantilly Bojangles Small Show Hunter of the Year line up, so ensure you are not boxed in and be sure you are strategy in the he will most be suited. It is seen.

Ring important to know who will be Depending on the class you are You must always present your judging and what they like to competing in, after this initial horse at his best whenever the see. Success may depend on Judges are observing you. Robert line up you will be asked to your ability to place him under perform an individual show, or it always looks to strategically Judges who will appreciate his might be that the Judge will place himself, saying, “As you strong points. The show must enter the ring put yourself in the actually ride your horse. also suit the horse; there is no The horses will then be stripped best position to catch the point taking a young, Judges’ eye and make your horse and trotted up in-hand so the inexperienced horse to a large Judge can see them in their bare stand out from the rest of the county show where he won’t form. For this, the grooms enter competition.” cope, it is better to take him to the ring to assist the riders and some smaller indoor shows over When in the ring ensure you concentrate yet still keep an eye make any last minute touch-ups the winter to gain his on the Judge to know when they before the rider stands the horse confidence. up in-hand.

A horse with well-balanced are observing the competitors.

When the steward asks the class “Make sure that the horse is conformation should not only stood up properly and looking to move forward into trot, the please the eye but also be able to perform, be more trot needs to have an even, fluid alert to create a pleasing picture,” says Robert. It is also rhythm, covering the ground comfortable to ride and remain well. It is vital you keep plenty of important that you have sound. practiced trotting up in-hand at Whether it is a Hunter or a Cob, space around you so the Judge home so your horse knows what quality, class and overall can observe you easily. to expect and obliges obediently “Avoid circling in front of the refinement are essential and enthusiastically.

Judge because it is rude,” says attributes in every good show Adds Robert: “Always smile at Robert. horse.

“When I am looking for a horse When you move into canter you the Judges and stewards and the complete package is very may have to use a corner to get show good etiquette when in the ring. Remember it should be on the correct lead; again the important and exceptionally good limbs are a necessity,” transition should be flowing and fun at the end of the day and explains Robert. balanced with the horse carrying whatever the result, there is always another day.” himself well.

Robert’s favourite saddle Robert rides all his horses in the Classic Show Saddle from Black Country Saddles.

Says Robert: “The Black Country Classic Show Saddle offers style and elegance when in the show arena.

“The saddle is straight cut to help accentuate the horse or pony’s shoulder, but has a subtle knee roll to help keep the rider in the ideal show position.

“Made using pre-oiled, vintage leather, the saddle offers an ultra-comfortable seat and is flocked with pure wool to allow for greater bearing pressure and fitting adjustment.

“The low cantle helps provide a flatter seat for a neater appearance, with the close profile of the saddle helping to show off and enhance the overall picture, so important in the world of showing.”

For further information please visit www.blackcountrysaddles.com

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ShoWiNg: tutoriAl

Ride like...

Jo bAtES

HoW to SuCCEED iN SHoWiNg WitH

PROFESSIONAL SHOW PRODUCER, JO BATES, IS RENOWNED FOR PRODUCING HORSES ACROSS A WIDE RANGE OF SHOWING CLASSES AND HAVING REPEATED SUCCESSES AT THE HIGHEST LEVELS OF THE SPORT.

diffEREnT TyPEs oF H THE APPROACHING SEASON IS SET TO BE AN EXCITING TIME FOR THE TEAM, WITH SOME NEW EQUINE FACES ABOUT TO BEGIN THEIR SHOWING CAREERS ALONG WITH THE ESTABLISHED STARS. JO HAS THE FOLLOWING TURNOUT TIPS FOR THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF HORSES SHE PRODUCES FOR THE RING. CObs • A cob’s mane should be hogged, they want to look more workman like than other types.

• Cobs usually have a very thick coat so we clip them into spring.

We’ll bath them regularly with Absorbine ShowSheen 2in1

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Shampoo and Conditioner to prevent any stains becoming established. ShowSheen Stain Remover is brilliant for any tricky stubborn stains.

• Cobs tend to have a slightly shorter tail to make them look workmanlike.

• A thicker set bridle should be used to complement a cobs features, and typically brown tack is used.

hunTERs • Hunter should be all trimmed out; tails pulled (not clipped), heels and jaw clipped out. They need to look nice and tidy.

• Each horse has different shaped plaits to help enhance their neck shape. Typically, hunters plaits are larger than others such as Hacks.

• Be careful with rugs with a neck on any horses that will need to be plaited for the shows as the mane is at risk of being rubbed.

• Spray ShowSheen Detangler Original on the hindquarters before doing quarter markers. A hunter would have broad brush

strokes across the top of the quarters and sharks teeth on the flank.

• Hunters wear plan bridles, usually in brown.

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Sponsored by Absorbine, Jo has produced two Horse of the Year Champions including taking the Hack of the Year title in 2016 with Elusive, owned by Suzanna Welby. She has also produced three HOYS Reserve Champions as well as winners at the Royal International Horse Show and Royal Windsor and many championships at county level.

oRSES

haCKs • The tail should be trimmed to the right length to suit the horse but hacks tend to have slightly longer tails to create a more elegant picture.

• We rarely brush the tails to avoid thinning them. Use ShowSheen Original for their tails to keep them tangle free.

• Hacks wear a coloured browband with brown tack.

Choose a colour that suits your horse’s colouring.

• Hacks can wear white girths but, white girths spilt the horse in half visually and some argue

that this allows the Judge to see each half of the horse easily. A subtle and discreet girth, which matches your tack, provides a more harmonious look.

Riding hORsE • The Riding Horse should be plaited and the plaits should be slightly more delicate than the larger hunter plaits.

• We use SuperShine Hoof Polish at shows – we are careful to use black polish on black feet and clear polish on white feet. The horses have their feet oiled regularly with Hooflex Liquid Conditioner to keep them in good condition.

• Typically, brown tack is used and a coloured browband.

Choose a numnah that is discreet, we always use black or brown numnahs.

• All our horses have pulled tails.

A well pulled tail looks amazing and can really improve the look of a horse’s hindquarters.

Jo adds, “Don’t forget a final spritz of ShowSheen Original Hair Polish and Detangler before heading into the ring. It will give your horse the extra shine he needs to stand out! And have a tub of Horseman’s One Step handy for last minute touch ups of the bridle.”

Absorbine ShowSheen 2 in 1 Shampoo and Conditioner contains ProVitamins to help nourish the skin and strengthen hair. It deep cleans and conditions in one step to leave hair soft, strong and manageable without stripping natural oils.

ShowSheen 2 in 1 Shampoo also revitalises and brightens the coat and comes in a bottle with a safety lid to prevent any spillages.

(RRP £9.97) www.absorbine.co.uk

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NutritioN

laMinitiS:

fracture) can lead to laminitis. It is thought that this is due to pressure affecting the blood supply to the foot.

is it avoidable?

sepsis

By Anna Welch BVSc, BSc, MRCVS. Veterinary Nutrition Director, TopSpec.

Certain conditions, such as retained placenta, colitis and in some cases pneumonia, result in the release of toxins into the bloodstream by bacteria.

Laminitis can be seen as the end result of a cascade of inflammatory changes. feeding to avoid laminitis

I

n the past laminitis has been referred to as a disease in its own right, with treatment focused on managing the signs, such as foot pain and inflammation.

Recent research has led to laminitis being viewed more as a sign of another disease process rather than a disease itself. With improved knowledge of the conditions which might be underlying, as well as the other factors that can contribute, we are better equipped to avoid the occurrence of laminitis.

Hormonal dysfunction has been identified as one of the most important contributing factors to laminitis and can help to explain why certain horses and ponies, usually good-doers, are more susceptible to laminitis than others. Insulin Resistance (IR) or Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and Pars Pituitary Intermedia

18

Dysfunction (PPID)/Cushing’s, have been diagnosed by vets in up to 90% of laminitis cases.

Laminitis is multifactorial and in order to avoid it, the accumulation of ‘predisposing factors’ which could trigger an episode must be minimised.

These include: Excessive intake of sugar and starch

Grass that is high in sugar and/or fructans (e.g.

Spring/Autumn/frosted grass), hard feeds high in sugar/starch and the use of highly molassed feeds can cause a rise in insulin levels in the blood. This hormonal response can be exaggerated in certain horses and ponies due to underlying IR. Research has found that high levels of blood insulin can directly precipitate laminitis.

The microbial balance of the hindgut can also be affected by excessive consumption of sugar and starch, causing the hindgut

Correct nutrition plays a vital role in avoiding laminitis.

Obesity should be prevented but if your horse or pony has become overweight, an to become more acidic. This can appropriate weight loss allow ‘Laminitis Trigger Factors’ programme should be initiated.

For most horses and ponies, an to leak into the bloodstream, ideal condition is when the ribs ultimately causing laminitis. can be easily felt without thick Obesity layers of fat, and there should be Overfeeding of calories, as well no fatty deposits or cresty neck. as insufficient exercise, will However, for some horses and cause a horse or pony to become ponies e.g. some of those with overweight. Certain individuals EMS, it is impossible to reach will be more susceptible to this ideal. For those with becoming obese due to a underlying conditions, such as genetic predisposition. Internal IR and/or PPID, it is usually fat is hormonally active and can preferable for them to be initiate changes in the foot maintained on the light side of which leads to laminitis, and ideal weight due to their obese horses and ponies may increased susceptibility to also have IR. Due to the laminitis. excessive bodyweight carried, Grazing can be difficult to there is also a greater load on control but it is important to the structures of the hoof. come up with a solution that Trauma works for your facilities and Excessive concussion from routine. Options include mixed repeated exercise on hard, grazing (e.g. with sheep), using uneven ground and overload of a grazing muzzle, use of a bare one limb due to a non-weight paddock/‘sacrifice paddock’ or bearing condition in the fencing a small area. opposite limb (such as a Continued overleaf...

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NutritioN Continued from previous page...

can be supplied without the use of excessive amounts of sugar When stabled, or in a ‘sacrifice and starch. A top specification paddock,’ a low sugar, low feed balancer, unmolassed calorie conserved forage should alfalfa chop, and when be used. Late-cut meadow hay is appropriate, a low starch usually suitable but may require (<10%) conditioning cube can soaking for between 3 and 12 be used. hours in ample, cool, fresh water Controlling your horse or pony’s to reduce its sugar and calorie bodyweight, following a content. Using haynets with sensible management regime small holes or ‘trickle nets’ can and addressing any underlying be very helpful for those that are conditions can all help to avoid greedy. Some hay can also be laminitis. It is often best to partially replaced by an speak to an experienced exceptionally low calorie, nutritionist to come up with a chopped straw to ensure that plan to suit your horse or pony’s good-doers do not stand for too individual needs. long without forage available.

TopSpec can be contacted, free Hard feeds should be kept low in of charge, on their Multiplesugar and starch and cerealAward-Winning-Helpline 01845 grain-free. Using a top 565030. specification, pelleted or powdered multi-supplement is advisable to balance the diet for micronutrients. A broad-spectrum supplement, hoof supplement, high levels of antioxidants and preand probiotics are all important for those prone to laminitis and on restricted diets.

If extra calories and protein are needed they

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Bumble

k! bounces bac

F

ive-year-old Gabriella Marsh was very upset when her pony Bumble became very lame due to a flare-up of laminitis.

Standing 11.2hh, Bumble is an 11-year-old Welsh Section A pony, who was prone to laminitis.

Bumble’s owner (and Gabriella’s Dad) Allen Marsh said: “Bumble was out of action for nearly six weeks last Spring, so we had to borrow other ponies for Gabriella to do Pony Club activities on.

“After the latest bout of laminitis, and his lack of energy, we had Bumble tested for Cushing’s disease (PPID), which came back positive. It was stressful worrying about getting

him sound again, and we didn’t know if he would have enough energy for Pony Club rallies and unaffiliated showjumping competitions.

“After being recommended Fibre-Beet, I’ve been really pleased with the results.

Bumble’s feet appear stronger and he’s completely sound, his coat looks great, and he has plenty of energy – while still being safe for Gabriella. He even won the Pony Club Pony of the Year award in the summer!” www.britishhorsefeeds.com

Speedi-Beet is a highly nutritious micronized (cooked) beet pulp feed which provides an excellent source of digestible fibre and is suitable for horses and ponies susceptible to laminitis.

Feeding Speedi-Beet before turnout can help stabilise the ingestion of sugars present in spring grass. www.britishhorsefeeds.com

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Win! 3 SEtS oF 5Kg HORSlyx MOBIlIty BAlANcER & 5KG HOlDER!

Feeding:

Horslyx Mobility Balancer is a nutrient rich lick containing optimum levels of Glucosamine Hcl, MSM and Omega Oils, all vital to promote optimum joint function. the high specification vitamin, mineral and trace element package - which incorporates Vitamin c, Vitamin E and selenium - supports the body’s ability to absorb the vital nutrients, helping maintain a strong immune system and supports overall health and vitality. the horslyx balancer range now features updated product formulations which include linseed oil and an increase in the level of biotin to 12 mg/kg for even better hoof health across all ranges. An independent research study using gait analysis technology, proved that horslyx mobility balancer improved stride length in stiff horses. www.horslyx.com to enter this competition go online and click the competitions page:

www.absolutehorse magazine.com deadline is 31st march 2017.

Fussy Horses

By Jane Buchan, Baileys Horse Feeds

I

f your horse is working, not eating the recommended amount of hard feed will mean he misses out on essential nutrients, as well as calories, which will affect his ability to perform and hold condition. It’s very important to ascertain whether the “fussiness” is due to any health or stressrelated issues.

Check your horse’s teeth, worming programme and management routine and consider whether he may be suffering from gastric ulcers.

A reduced appetite can also be frustrating but may be for a number of reasons, generally stress-related. Some horses are fussy about the flavour and texture of feeds and some have small appetites. Fussy horses can be a headache and it may be only trial and error which helps you find whether they prefer or dislike a particular mix or cube or certain ingredients.

The way a feed feels in the mouth can be influential, with some horses not liking extruded feeds, like barley rings, for this reason.

Horses can also be very sensitive to changes in feed and forage itself. While reputable feed manufacturers work to set recipes, some may change ingredients in certain circumstances, which may put horses off. Hay or haylage is naturally more variable and can change from bale to bale. Try offering both hay and haylage, as well as wet or dry hay, to give the horse choice, and allow as much access to grazing as possible to reduce stable-bound stress.

Ad lib Forage When horses don’t eat sufficient forage, they can suffer problems with gastric ulcers as well as increased acidity in the hindgut, leading to discomfort, which can cause poor performance and reduced appetite. This emphasises the importance of the forage element of the diet so, ideally, the horse should always have access to forage and should consume no less that the “healthy” minimum of the equivalent of 1.5% of their bodyweight ie. a 500kg horse should consume at least

7.5kg/16lb of forage/fibre per day to maintain a healthy digestive system.

If hay or haylage are not your horse’s favourite, try feeding other fibre sources in separate buckets from the hard feed, to offer variety, alongside his normal forage, and to encourage foraging behaviour.

Speedi-Beet and Fibre-Beet are ideal and can be fed on their own or with a chaff or alfalfa.

High fibre cubes or nuggets, like Baileys Fibre Plus Nuggets, are also tempting sources of additional fibre.

Small Meals Divide the overall concentrate ration into as many small meals as possible in order to avoid overloading the stomach and causing digestive upsets which can affect appetite. Unless you are convinced that they help tempt the horse to eat, leave chaffs and beet out of the concentrate meal to encourage the horse to eat up; if they do not consume the recommended daily amount of your chosen mix or cube, they Continued overleaf...

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NutritioN Continued from previous page... will not be receiving a fully balanced diet.

Concentrated Feeds Nutrient or energy-dense feeds are useful when horses won’t eat large volumes so consider using a balancer, which will provide quality protein, vitamins and minerals and is fed by the mug-full rather than in scoops.

High oil supplements, generally more palatable than straight oil, are similarly useful as they provide a concentrated source of calories which can be added to an existing balanced diet to increase the overall calorie content without significantly adding to the overall volume fed. tasty tempters If, despite trying a variety of

mixes and cubes, your horse still needs tempting to get his nose in the bucket, you could try mixing in a little extra molasses, apple juice or blackcurrant cordial. Grated or chopped carrots or apples are another idea as is dried spearmint or a handful of horse treats. Other herbs which can be added include fenugreek, cinnamon and aniseed. Some horses like their feeds wet/soaked, others don’t. Warm water used for soaking/damping may prove tempting, especially in the winter.

Digestive Support Consider feeding a pre or probiotic supplement to encourage and support a healthy microbial population in the gut, which should not only improve digestive efficiency but

also help avoid digestive upsets or discomfort which could affect appetite. B vitamins are produced by bacteria in the hindgut so any disturbance to their populations, say due to reduced fibre/forage intake, will mean the horse misses out on these essential nutrients. Certain B vitamins are known to stimulate appetite so temporary supplementation can encourage the horse to eat but fibre/forage intake must be improved for sustainable results.

possible will help most horses and positioning hay nets and mangers near the door or window so that the horse can still see out – and other horses – whilst eating, should help encourage increased consumption. Some horses, especially youngsters, do not like putting their heads down into deep buckets so choose shallow buckets or trugs to encourage them. www.baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk

Stress Busting If your horse is stressy, reviewing and adapting your management routine may be necessary.

Turning out as much as

The good apple!

Tempt your horse...

Applechaff is made from the finest quality straw which has been chopped and dust extracted, then dressed with a unique, low sugar dressing. it contains real diced apple pieces as well as apple essence to make it irresistible to even the fussiest of feeders. it is well known that apples are not just a tasty favourite of our four-legged friend, but are a good source of a wide range of natural nutrients, including potassium, calcium, vitamin c and dietary fibre. Applechaff also contains added limestone to increase calcium levels.

Applechaff is naturally high in fibre and is excellent for adding bulk to a horse or pony’s diet, helping to promote good digestion by stimulating the production of saliva and regulating the slow passage of food through the gut. in particular it will satisfy a stabled horse’s psychological need to chew. www.horsehage.co.uk

There is nothing more frustrating that trying to tempt a horse that is being fussy with his feed.

Here are some tips that you could try to help overcome the problem.

• Try not to keep changing feeds in a bid to create temptation! Horses are not silly and quickly tune into the fact that if they are fussy they will keep getting something new to try and so a vicious circle begins.

• Start by keeping meal sizes very small. Even if that means initially feeding just a handful at a time.

• Balancers are useful at this stage as you only need to feed small amounts to provide optimum levels of vitamins and minerals.

• Check that you are feeding optimum levels of forage to maintain a healthy hindgut environment. An imbalance of gut microflora can affect appetite. www.saracenhorsefeeds.com

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Q

How can i feed my picky eater?

The Equerry Horse Feeds Nutrition Team answer...

F

eeding a fussy horse can be incredibly frustrating and result in a lot of wasted feed, time and money.

The adage 'you can lead a horse to water but can’t make him drink' applies to feed too!

Try not to simply offer a bit of everything as this will often not help!

There are many things we can do that will make a big difference to our horses’ appetite. Feed size is very important and whilst forage should usually be fed ad-lib it is important that hard feeds do not exceed the capacity of the stomach.

Feed, once eaten, enters the stomach via the oesophagus, where the feed is mixed with acid and pre digestion

commences. The capacity of the stomach is approximately 2kg for a 500kg horse. A horse should therefore not be fed more that 2kg per feed - which is one Stubbs scoop of cubes! If a horse needs more feed to maintain condition the solution is to feed a higher protein and calorie feed or increase the number of feeds. Feeds should be at least four hours apart.

Horses are creatures of habit and ensuring a consistent routine is key. Suitable forage should usually be fed ad-lib. By maximising the horse’s forage intake we enable the production of B vitamins in the hind gut which supports appetite.

Regular exercise as well as daily turnout will help, settled relaxed horses will have a better

TopSpec 14% Mix is a very palatable mix which is designed for fussy feeders, that reject low starch cubes but need additional feed alongside a feed balancer. www.topspec.com

Fibre-Beet is very palatable for fussy eaters. It has added biotin for hoof quality and is suitable for horses and ponies susceptible to laminitis. www.britishhorsefeeds.com

appetite.

All Equerry cubes are formulated using the best quality ingredients without cheap ingredients they are more palatable. So if there are nutritional reasons why a cube may suit your horse better, for example if a cereal-grain-free, low sugar and starch diet is indicated, do not rule out feeding a cube as they don't all taste the same!

There are however some horses that prefer a mix and the Equerry mixes are formulated to be very palatable. Equerry Veteran mix is a conditioning mix with high levels of oil to support weight-gain, high levels of yeast to support the digestive system and cooked cereals for

Do you have the next Valegro in your yard or do you ride like Charlotte Dujardin? If so the Trickle Net team want to hear from YOU! The Lincolnshire-based business is looking for a future dressage superstar to support.

The lucky sponsored rider will receive £100 to help cover entry fees, and a Trickle Net ambassador support package which includes a load of branded goodies.

If you feel you have what it takes to enter, simply email the team with no more than 200 words on your competition results, what level you are competing at and why you would like to be part of the sponsored team.

Send to: ellen@tricklenet.co.uk before 31st March 2017.

improved digestibility.

If you have a horse with a dental problem affecting appetite then feeding a product like Equerry Conditioning Mash is likely to be the answer. A very palatable, quick soak product that is low starch and 'Non-Heating' means it is very useful in many scenarios. It is high in fibre so ideal when forage intake is also reduced. Because it is soaked it is useful to help rehydrate horses e.g. after a day’s hunting. With added yeast to support the digestive system Equerry Conditioning Mash is a must have product for everyone's feedroom. www.equerryhorsefeeds.com

Good Luck!

trickle net launch Search For SuperStar!

23

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hEAlth & WElFArE

getting it done the right way!

By Westgate Labs

A

result for each animal. Efficiency is important too so make sure you know how and when you will receive your results.

1. Choose a laboratory you can trust Both the quality of the test and the follow up advice are important to give you the confidence to rely on the results.

We can all appreciate a healthy price point and recognise good customer service but you also want to ensure that the test is being carried out correctly.

Satisfy yourself that the lab is up to the job. At Westgate Labs we have a purpose built laboratory and test thousands of samples every week with rigorous processes to ensure the correct

2. Ask about the test process itself Westgate Labs use the industry standard â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Modified McMaster testâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; process to give as accurate a result as possible. The faecal samples are spun in a centrifuge before any worm eggs are floated off in a saturated salt solution. Two slides are then run out into counting chambers for examination under the microscope and the result averaged between the two.

The centrifuge helps to separate out any eggs as well as removing the sediment from the sample, making it much easier to identify them under the

ll good worm control programmes start with regular worm counts, but what does this entail and where do you start to get one done for your horse?

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worM countS For your horSe

(Above) Samples spun in the centrifuge using the Modified McMaster technique; (Top) Samples racked for the centrifuge.

microscope â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this method is far superior to a simple strained method.

In this way a known volume of dung and water enables a statistical result to be generated for the level of infection of adult, egg laying redworm and

roundworm eggs in horses.

Because of the way tapeworm eggs are excreted worm counts are not a definitive test for this, instead use the EquiSal saliva test to determine accurate infection levels.

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3. Sending the sample Choose a day to collect samples when worming is due or overdue for most of the horses.

This is important so that you don’t get a false result caused by wormer still working in the horse. The dung should be as fresh as possible but can still be posted the day after collection.

1. Use the glove to pick up about five small pinches from different places of a fresh dung pile.

2. Press the dung into the sample container, filling it to the top to exclude air.

3. Label the sample with horse’s name and put the container in the plastic bag.

5. Put sample, paperwork and payment or voucher into the post-paid return bag. Pop in the post box.

4. the results Your worm count result will be reported as a number of eggs per gram (epg).

• It is quite common for there to be no worm eggs seen in a sample and this will be reported as <50 epg. The sign < means ‘less than’.

• A count of less than 200 epg is regarded as a LOW count and shows that your worming

measures are working. In most situations you won’t need to worm at this level.

• A count between 200 epg and 1200 epg it is a MEDIUM count and the horse will need worming.

• If the count is over 1200 epg it is a HIGH count, the horse needs worming and the worming programme also needs attention.

The aim is not to eradicate all parasites, even if this were possible, but rather to keep them at an acceptable level for the health of your horse.

5. What next Of course it’s the advice which makes a test based programme work. Refer back to your SQP or vet if you need any further help with interpreting your result or what to treat with. At Westgate our friendly veterinary approved advice is freely available at no extra cost, just ask.

When it comes to looking after our horses only the best will do and experience counts where good worm control is concerned. www.westgatelabs.co.uk

ZoetiS warnS:

The recent spate of tragic incidences of young, cyathostominosis neglected horses being dumped dead or near to death in young horses has prompted Zoetis to warn of the risks of larval cyathostominosis.

This potentially fatal disease is caused by excessive burdens of encysted small redworm, from which neglected horses are often found to be suffering.

Encysted small redworm (ESRW) are the hibernating larval stages of the small redworm that bury themselves in the horse’s gut wall.

During the autumn and winter, when the environmental conditions are less favourable for small redworm larvae to develop on the pasture, the proportion of encysted larval stages within the horse’s gut wall gradually increases. Instead of continuing their normal development within cysts in the gut wall, larvae stop developing and enter a hibernating state where they are known as encysted small redworm.

ESRW larvae typically emerge from their cysts in early spring when the environmental conditions start to improve. Mass emergence of ESRW can cause severe damage and inflammation to the gut lining resulting in the disease syndrome ‘larval cyathostomonisis’.

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hEAlth & WElFArE

eMploy correct

What is resistance?

By Dr Corrine Austin, Austin Davis Biologics

worM control StrategieS nternal parasites present a constant challenge for horses, requiring ongoing monitoring and careful management to maintain optimum horse health.

Incorrect management can lead to unchecked worm burdens, development of resistance to wormers and, in worst cases, ill health and death.

There’s a constant, silent battle going on inside your horse’s intestine. Parasitic worms have become adapted to live inside certain areas of the gut by feeding on nutrients before the horse is able to absorb them.

The horse’s immune system does its best to fight them off but it is often fighting a losing battle; worms have become so cleverly adapted, that they can remain unaffected. So it falls to the conscientious horse owner to use correct worm control strategies, including testing for worm burdens, administering wormers when needed and

I

26

managing pasture to prevent reinfection or the transfer of worm infection from one horse to another.

Diagnosing worm burdens in horses The most common worms to infect horses in the UK are cyathostomins (small redworm), ascarids (roundworm) and cestodes (tapeworm). Most of the time it is not possible to determine whether a horse is carrying a burden by visual assessment, at least not until a clinical problem exists. By this stage the horse may suffer symptoms such as colic, diarrhoea and weight loss. It is therefore

important to monitor horses by routinely testing before considering treatment. Worm egg counts (WEC), where worm eggs are counted in a dung sample, should be carried out at least 3 times a year to monitor for small redworm and roundworm (note: until a diagnostic test exists to detect small redworm encysted in the gut wall, a routine winter worming dose should be administered). WEC are unreliable for detecting tapeworm burdens as eggs are released intermittently and are not uniformly spread throughout the dung.

Worms can develop the ability to survive the killing effect of wormers, usually through repeated exposure to worming drugs. the risk of resistance emerging is increased by practices such as routine worming strategies or under-dosing with wormers. It is therefore becoming increasingly important to avoid routinely worming horses and to reserve the use of drugs for when they are really needed – when a horse has a confirmed burden.

Tapeworm burdens are more accurately diagnosed by either a blood or a saliva test, both of which detect tapeworm-specific antibodies. In the past, the accepted method to control tapeworms was to treat all horses every 6 months, regardless of whether they needed treating but, since the availability of accurate tests, this practice is no longer necessary or recommended. the EquiSal tapeworm saliva test The EquiSal saliva test is carried out using the specially designed swab provided in the kit to collect saliva. The sample is sent back to the laboratory for testing in a tube containing preservative solution. It is easy to integrate EquiSal Tapeworm testing into your worm control programme – simply test every 6 months at a time when you would consider routine worming

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Case study: testing large herds In 2016, Bransby Horses, who use saliva testing for horses in their care as part of their worm control strategy, tested in Spring and Autumn as well as testing horses new to the premises. Only 22% of the 749 test results were borderline or moderate/high and required treatment. this resulted in a big reduction in wormer administered to the horses – 583 doses to be exact!

for tapeworm.

The test provides a low, borderline or moderate/high diagnosis and worming is recommended for horses diagnosed as borderline or moderate/high. Diagnostic accuracy has been proven through full validation of the test which has been published in the peer reviewed journal, Veterinary Clinical Pathology.

This can be explained when considering the tapeworm life cycle, in which oribatid mites are intermediate hosts meaning that the tapeworm life cycle is completed within oribatid mites. The mites living on the pasture would have ingested tapeworm eggs from the dung on the bridleway before moving to the paddock and been inadvertently eaten by Ama. Ama’s results subsequently the importance of reduced to low burden diagnosis routine testing after worming. You can read Routinely monitoring your horse more about this study at for tapeworm burdens is www.equisal.co.uk. important as, with other worm species, infection is dynamic and testing before treating significantly reduces can be influenced by factors outside of your control. This was wormer doses highlighted recently by results Routinely testing for tapeworm obtained in one of EquiSal’s every 6 months and only research studies. treating horses diagnosed with a Ama and Charlie graze burden significantly reduces the separately, in a regularly muck doses of wormer being cleared field, surrounded by administered to horses as gardens and agricultural land approximately 75% of horses in with a bridleway running down the UK are diagnosed with a low one side. Both horses had been burden and do not require diagnosed with low burdens for treatment.

2 years, so it was quite a surprise Reducing the risk of when Ama’s test results tapeworm infections diagnosed her with a Although it can be difficult to moderate/high burden. influence management practices However, the adjacent bridleway outside of your own field to was found to have horse dung prevent infection, it is best left by passing horses and this practice for horses in adjacent was enough to infect Ama, who paddocks to be following the grazes closest to the bridleway.

same worm control programme.

It is important to carry out routine paddock management, such as regular muck clearance, where muck is completely removed from grazing and adjacent areas, as well as field rotation and resting where possible. It is also important to restrict horses’ grazing while away from home, such as at show grounds. Lastly, ensure

you know your horse’s accurate weight for correctly dosing wormers as under dosing can result in persistent burdens and continuous egg shedding. www.equisal.co.uk

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HEALTH & WELFARE how do you say thank you to someone that helps you care for your most treasured friend?

Take the time to nominate them for the Virbac 3D Worming Equine SQP of the Year Award!

Make your nomination at www.3dworming.co.uk

Sophie Callahan from Essex has become a Hiho Silver brand ambassador.

Sophie is a talented equine photographer and an equestrian vlogger, blogger and long time Hiho fan. www.sophiecallahanphotography.com

g Downsizin n bee r e v e n s a h ! this good

J

ust six months after Bed-Down was struck by a major blaze that caused severe disruption to its production facilities, the Norfolk-based premium equine bedding specialist is back with an innovative new product - the Handy Bale.

At half the size and weight of a classic 20kg bale, the innovative new Handy Bale is simply more conveniently sized and is the brainchild of owner James Foster-Clarke.

James commented, “We’re celebrating 60 years of making quality animal bedding this

T EquinE AtypicAl MyopAthy toxin And biochEMicAl tEsts And trEE sAMplE tEsting AvAilAblE At thE royAl vEtErinAry collEgE 28

year. The fire gave us the opportunity to think about some new ideas and the development of the Handy Bale is the result of lots of feedback from stockists and horse owners.”

Compact and easy to handle, they fit onto stores’ racking more neatly and are easier and safer for staff to handle, and for customers to carry and load in their vehicles. www.bed-down.co.uk

he Royal Veterinary College (RVC) is now conducting testing for atypical myopathy as part of its work towards improved treatments and management of this disorder.

Atypical myopathy of horses is a severe and life threatening equine muscle disorder that is caused by the ingestion of Sycamore tree seeds, leaves or seedlings by horses that are kept at pasture.

Risk factors for horses remain unclear. It is, for example, not currently known whether some trees are more toxic than others or whether the amount of toxin varies at certain times of the year or with certain climatic conditions.

The RVC is working to help horse owners to gain a better understanding.

To find out if plant samples from your property contain the toxin known to cause atypical myopathy, you can now send samples directly to the lab where they will be tested at a subsidised cost of £50.

The Comparative Neuromuscular Diseases Laboratory is also offering testing of horse blood and urine samples, submitted by your vet, if they suspect atypical myopathy or in field companions. This should help to establish a much more rapid and accurate diagnosis. http://www.rvc.ac.uk/research/laboratories/comparative-neuromusculardiseases-laboratory/diagnostic-services

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vEtErinAry rEgulAtor Asks AniMAl ownErs for thEir viEws Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), the regulator of veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses in the UK, has launched a consultation asking for the views of animal owners on the use of new remote technology, known as telemedicine, in veterinary practices.

Telemedicine can be defined as any clinical healthcare service that is provided using remote telecommunications services, for example, videocall services (such as Skype), wearable technology for pets (similar to Fitbit) and other online consultation services.

The aim of the consultation is to receive feedback to help the College develop regulations for these technologies in order to safeguard animal health and welfare.

The consultation, which is in the form of an online questionnaire, will consider issues such as who is responsible for providing care for animals if a service is provided remotely via technology, the risks and benefits of using this technology versus the more traditional provision of veterinary services and remote diagnosis and prescribing. www.rcvs.org.uk/ technology

By Samantha Hardingham

Tel: 07740 047279 http://meta.fitness/home

Focus on: Fermented Foods

A

t this time of year our skin can start to suffer with the cold weather and lack of vitamin D. The sun hasn’t quite made it out yet and so we need a bit of a boost.

Fermented and cultured foods are a great source of probiotics that will keep our skin nice and clear until the summer sun kicks in.

Every culture in the world has some type of fermented food to it’s name, the most well known being creme fraiche from the French, Greek yoghurt from Greece, sauerkraut from the Germans and Kimchi from the Koreans. Many cultured or fermented foods are dairy based and should be made with raw and organic milk. Those who are lactose intolerant can often

tolerate these products as the although they produce mucus, it’s a clean mucus that coats the lining of the digestive tract and allows friendly bacteria to nest in it and thrive.

These foods are great probiotics and without this helpful bacteria we wouldn’t be here. Bacteria thrives on raw food and our ancestors had no idea of its existence but intuitively did the right thing protecting their food from the bacteria that made it rot and used the good bacteria to preserve their food.

Fermented foods are great for treating diarrhoea, gastroenteritis, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, the common cold, allergies and skin complaints.

Fermented foods are easy to make, this is my favourite recipe.

“A spoonful a day keeps the doctor away as they say!”

3 cabbage sauerkraut Ingredients Pak choi White cabbage Savoy cabbage totaling 1kg 1/2 teaspoon of chilli flakes 1cm of grated fresh ginger 2 tablespoon of good quality sea salt

Method Finely chop all the cabbage then add all the ingredients to a bowl, mix together and let it rest for 30 mins to start to draw out the brine. Then start to add the mixture to a large sterilised mason jar and bash it down with the end of a rolling pin until the mixture is covered by it’s own juices or ‘brine’. Leave in a warm room for four days and each day bash down the mixture to make sure it stays covered by the brine. It will be ready on the seventh day. Keep in the fridge for up to a month.

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HEALTH & WELFARE

bAndAging: Made simple ROBINSON ANIMAL HEALTHCARE OFFERS SOME PRACTICAL ADVICE ON SUCCESSFUL BANDAGING, INCLUDING A FEW IMPORTANT GUIDELINES TO FOLLOW TO IMPROVE YOUR TECHNIQUE.

Improving Your Technique By following a few important guidelines you can improve your bandaging technique and ensure that whenever you need to apply a bandage your horse will receive the full benefit.

• Always apply a bandage with even pressure and a 50% overlap, taking care not to over-stretch the bandage.

• Bandage from the top and from left to right on the near side and right to left on the off side.

• Never bandage the horse’s legs without padding, ideally using Veterinary Gamgee.

B

andaging is used for several reasons and knowing how to do it well is important. When applied correctly, a bandage can assist in the healing process of an injury, but if applied incorrectly they can cause problems that will delay healing and potentially cause further complications.

Bandaging is used for several reasons including first aid and injury, either to reduce swelling or secure dressings and for providing protection and support for tendons and ligaments during exercise and while travelling.

Learning how to bandage is something that requires practice, and the secret of good

30

contact with an open wound should always be sterile.

The secondary layer is the Applying a bandage padding that should be placed When applying a bandage to an on top of the dressing to injury or wound you should insulate, protect and control apply three main layers. swelling. Veterinary Gamgee, The primary layer should consist which is highly absorbent and of a low-adherent dressing has a uniform thickness, is ideal. which is placed directly on to the The final layer is your bandage wound or on top of wound which should hold the other two hydrogel which has direct layers in place. The application contact with the wound surface. of this bandage is very Robinson Animal Healthcare important and a cohesive offer Vetalintex, a sterile wound bandage such as Equiwrap is hydrogel that promotes moist ideal. healing conditions to regenerate Equiwrap easily tears by hand so healthy tissue. application is quick and easy and The dressing will prevent it sticks to itself but doesn’t stick padded material sticking to the to hair or skin. It is strong, wound and should absorb any lightweight and super soft exudates produced from the which makes it an ideal choice. wound. Dressings in direct bandaging lies in achieving correct and even tension.

• A bandage should never restrict circulation, unless used to apply pressure, as it can cause serious damage and affect the healing process.

• Make sure the bandage does not restrict movement especially when bandaging at the knee or hock, unless you are bandaging for immobilisation.

• For knee or hock wounds use a figure-of-eight bandage, crossing at the front of the knee or hock.

• Always bandage the opposite leg to provide support.

• Always keep a selection of bandages and relevant dressings in your first aid kit. www.robinsonhealthcare.com

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HEALTH & WELFARE: SPECIAL REPORT

iMproving wElfArE of

nEglEctEd bodMin poniEs

B

odmin Moor in Cornwall is classified as common land and has been used for the summer grazing of livestock for hundreds of years. Ponies used to be an important part of the farming process because the only practical way to manage livestock over such a vast area was on horseback. Currently it is estimated that around 500 to 600 ponies are running free on some areas of the Moor.

Indiscriminate breeding is causing their numbers to increase, with many ponies suffering and struggling to survive over the cold winter months when grass is in short supply. While some owners who retain grazing rights monitor their own ponies on the Moor, a lack of formal identification of horses and a lack of enforcement of identification laws has led to other ponies being abandoned or illegally grazed. Subsequent overcrowding, coupled with poor grazing, has made life very tough for them.

Redwings has been striving to ensure the future welfare of these ponies for several years,

working with charities and agencies including Bodmin Moor Commons Council, the Animal Health and Plant Agency (APHA), Blue Cross, Bransby Horses, the British Horse Society, the RSPCA and World Horse Welfare.

In the autumn of 2016 Blue Cross helped to round up, health check, microchip and provide passports for 169 semiferal ponies on the East Moor area of Bodmin.

Sadly more than 100 ponies, including in-foal mares, foals and youngsters, many of which were in a pitiful state of health, remained unclaimed. Blue Cross has taken in 26 of the most needy cases, with Redwings taking 16, the Mare and Foal Sanctuary taking 23, and World Horse Welfare and RSPCA also pledging homes.

“The ponies were in a dreadful state when they arrived,” said Vicki Alford, Horse Manager at Blue Cross, Burford. “Most were very weak and underweight and terrified. We put them all in one large field as a group for a couple of weeks, to give them security and stability within their own herd before moving

them into stables for castration, microchipping and passports.”

Gradually the ponies were introduced to feed and very soon they started coming to the field gate when the grooms arrived. Eventually it was possible to split them into smaller groups and start their training in mobile round pens using a combination of negative and positive reinforcement.

“Luckily for the ponies we admitted they are only frightened because they have never ever had interactions with humans, not because they have had bad handling or scary experiences. This makes our training so much easier,” explains Vicki.

It has been a costly project for Blue Cross to help the Bodmin Moor ponies. Together with the costs of day-to-day care and training the charity has had to fund veterinary treatment, the castration of colts, vaccination courses for all the ponies and farriery to rectify problems with badly cared for feet. www.bluecross.org.uk

BRANSBY HORSES WELCOMES ADDITIONAL PONIES As the welfare crisis continues on Bodmin Moor, despite the best efforts of multiple organisations, Bransby Horses recently welcomed an additional ten mares from the Moor.

Named by staff, Buttercup, Blossom, Camellia, Primrose, Ivy, Daisy, Lilac, Jasmine, Tulip and Snowdrop were assessed by vets on arrival.

Unfortunately, Jasmine had an infection from a previous injury that could not be treated; this meant that sadly, it was only fair to end Jasmine’s suffering and she was put to sleep.

The remaining nine mares are receiving high-level veterinary care before they move to the Peter Hunt Handling Yard for rehabilitation, in the hope that one day they will find loving foster homes.

If you would like to support their rescue and welfare work, please visit www.bransbyhorses.co.uk

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COMPETITION

10 FAMILY

TICKETS

MUST BE WON!

The East Anglian Game & Country Fair will take place on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd April 2017, at the Euston Estate, just off the A11 at Thetford, by kind permission of The Duke and Duchess of Grafton.

There are a number of new equestrian attractions confirmed for 2017 - The Mounted Games Association of Great Britain will be holding the most exciting and exhilarating display competitions in the Main Arena.

Riders in teams, complete short relay style races against each other demonstrating speed, accuracy and horsemanship.

Races are a mix of turns, intricate hand overs, equipment collections and placements, vaulting on and off the horse and of course - all at gallop!

You can also join in and 'have a

go' at a range of country activities from clay shooting with John Bidwellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s High Lodge instructors or enter the competition clay shoot for men, women and juniors. Fly fishing and Course fishing on the Black Bourne River with Fishing for Schools, ferret racing and archery to paintballing and crossbows. Try the air rifle range, hold a bird of prey or take a ride in a Landrover on the off road 4x4 course.

There are over 350 shopping stands with a wide variety of products from fashion and footwear to gun makers, eco products, fishing products and home improvements. Plus, craft halls and gift marquees - there is something for the whole family to enjoy.

For more information visit www.ukgamefair.co.uk

To enter go online at www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click the competitions page.

Deadline is 31st March 2017.

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BUYERS GUIDE Your own signature style!

The Equetech Custom Competition Shirt - choose from a custom name pinstripe design or upload your own photo/logo to the back of the shirt. RRP: £37.95. Sizes: S - XL Also available in junior sizes.

Colours: White (21 print colours).

The Equetech Peplum Competition Shirt brings an exciting fresh new fashion forward look to the dressage arena.

RRP: £44.95.

Sizes: 8 – 20.

Colours: White/Melange Grey. www.equetech.com

Short Boots with Full Performance

All the

Gear...

Colours include Forest Green and Dark Stone.

Sizes: 10 -16.

RRP: £99.99.

Bespoke & Beautiful

Musto Waterproof Long Wax Yard Jacket is practical and stylish, it is robust enough to wear around the yard and smart enough to transition to everyday wear. www.equestrian.com

Colours include Black and White.

Sizes: XS - XL. RRP: £20.99.

The Spanish Boot Company’s bespoke collection of Valverde Jodhpur Boots offer a distinctly high fashion twist to this equestrian classic. www.thespanishboot company.co.uk

Ariat’s range of Heritage IV Paddock boots are all you need this spring.

Heritage IV Zip Paddock Boot RRP: from £129.99; Heritage IV Lace Paddock Boot RRP: from £129.99. www.ariat.com

Dublin Dressage Gloves are made from leather and come with a grip palm. They include reinforcement for single and double rein usage and adjustable touch tape closure, stretch fabric over knuckles. www.equestrian.com

The LeMieux ProSport Close Contact Saddlecloth is made from a high quality fabric structure which enables it to retain shape and resist shrinkage.

Colours: Burgundy, Blue, White, Black Sizes: Cob and Full. RRP: £36.99. www.equestrian.com

RRP: £175.

Sizes: 35-46

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PADDOCKS & PASTURES

grazing the hArdd way - part 1

E

quine grazing consultant Garry Holter has devised the ‘HARDD’ way to manage grazing. It stands for Harrow, Aerate, Rest and recuperation, Drainage and Diversity. Following these simple rules will not only create a more natural equine environment, but also give horse owners more time for riding instead of repairing disasters.

In this issue Garry discusses Harrow and Aerate - see the June edition of the Absolute Horse Magazine for the concluding part.

Harrow Many people don’t fully understand how to use their harrow, so it tends to sit in a

corner until its annual outing.

Yet it should be used at least twice a year – and preferably after every grazing.

Harrowing is best done at a walking pace because the aim is to remove the build-up of dead material on fields and paddocks that have been hammered by horses.

Harrowing removes dead thatch and lifts vegetation up. Its job is to allow air movement which helps the soil to breathe. It also reduces disease by exposing fungi and bacteria to sunlight and is basically essential for the health of the pasture. Don’t harrow when it’s wet as this will rip up the ground or break the tines. Don’t do it when it’s very dry, because it will simply rattle

rspcA rEscuE horsE tAnglEd in fEncE

34

across the surface. And don’t just go up and down the field: go across it as well to lift plants and grasses in both directions.

Where a field is being rested from grazing, droppings can be left to dry out then harrowed to spread them out. The field should be rested for at least two months. Worm larvae will then dry out and die on exposure to the sun, while birds will pick out the daddy long legs (crane fly) larvae, which are known as leatherjackets and damage grass roots.

Aeration After grazing, fields become so compacted from the weight and constant traffic of horses that they form a hard layer just under the surface known as a pan. This

not only restricts drainage, but also aeration and root depth.

Plant roots have a hard time getting anything out of the soil, so can’t function and grow well.

Because water can’t drain down through the soil, it sits on the surface and the pan prevents gaseous exchange between the soil and the atmosphere.

Toxic gases such as methane or hydrogen sulphide (the rotten egg smell) are released by anaerobic soil bacteria and decomposing nutrients in the soil. But plant roots need oxygen.

Breaking the pan allows gasses out, and oxygen and water in.

This involves piercing it by using spike or knife rollers (they create slits 8-9” deep), or an ‘apple corer’ (this rolls across the surface and pushes out apple cores of soil to be harrowed). As always, the best policy is to prevent a pan forming in the first place by grazing paddocks for short intense periods, then removing horses to let the area rest, recover and breathe.

Originally published by British Grassland

The RSPCA is urging equine owners to ensure they are checking on their horses every day after a cob got tangled in wire fencing in his field.

Inspector Anthony Joynes said “This poor boy was completely entangled in the wire fencing around the field.”

The incident highlights how important it is for horse and pony owners to ensure they are visiting their pets at least once a day to check their welfare as well as the conditions in which they are being kept.

“It’s easy for fencing to be damaged in windy and stormy weather so it’s really important that horse owners are checking fences, gates and perimeters of paddocks for any fencing which could cause injury or get tangled in legs,” inspector Joynes added.

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A pErMAnEnt

ElEctric fEncE for your horsE? MERIEL YOUNGER FROM WWW.ELECTRICFENCING.CO.UK DISCUSSES PERMANENT ELECTRIC FENCING

S

ometimes it is necessary longer (if it is securely fixed). to use an electric fence to Gateways can easily be keep horses enclosed. created.

Perhaps they are a Houdini 2. Creating walkways – and escape from post and rail it can be necessary to create fencing or perhaps they are walkways between paddocks partial to rubbing. Whatever and to and from stable the reason a permanent blocks. Permanent electric electric fence will do the job. fencing can be used to create Permanent electric fencing for secure passageways. horses can be used in many What you would need: different applications – here are Insulators fixed to wooden a few examples: posts would be required to 1. Paddock division – carry electric fencing – either sometimes it is necessary to tape or rope.

3. Prevent divide paddocks. Either to rubbing/scratching create smaller areas or to keep some characters apart or on posts – some horses perhaps grass has to be and ponies are partial to restricted due to laminitis. rubbing and scratching on Creating a barrier with fences. When an expensive permanent electric fencing is post and rail fence has been a quick and efficient way to installed the last thing you do this. want is for your horses and What you would need: ponies to rub and scratch on Electric tape or rope is fixed it – ultimately breaking down using insulators to wooden the fence. posts. Often thick 40mm What you would need: tape is used as it is more Standoff insulators attached visible, stronger and lasts to the top rail can be used to

keep animals away from the wooden fence stopping them from having the opportunity to get near to the fence. Often rope or galvanised wire is used.

Permanent electric fencing can be an expensive outlay but it will last for years if properly installed and managed. It can look very smart, neat and tidy and will keep your horses and ponies safe.

Permanent Electric Fencing Components • Permanent electric fencing can be powered by mains, battery or by battery/solar energisers.

• With every system at least one

earth stake is required.

• Tape, rope and galvanised wire can be used.

• Short or long insulators (standoff insulators) can be used depending on the use of the electric fence.

• Fence testers are an essential part of the kit.

• Tensioners are very useful – keeping an electric fence tensioned will prevent it getting caught by the wind and stretched and broken.

However it should be remembered the most important part of any new electric fencing system is that it is well planned from the outset.

To get the right electric fence for your needs ask the experts www.electricfencing.co.uk

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TRANSPORT

trAvEl updAtE: E

questrian Sophie Dunkerley is something of an expert when it comes to horsepower and economy of movement, so she is delighted to be driving Europe’s first FUSO Canter Eco Hybrid horsebox.

Also believed to be the first diesel-electric truck of any make to be converted to carry horses, her new vehicle wins top marks from Sophie for the range of

benefits it offers.

“The new truck is far easier to drive, and especially to reverse and turn in tight spaces,” she said.

Sophie competes at Advanced Medium level dressage, which entails travelling to events across East Anglia from her base near Bury St Edmunds most weekends.

Sophie’s Canter was supplied by Birmingham Mercedes-Benz

Dealer Midlands Truck & Van. “I’m really enjoying driving the Canter, and the horses seem to like it too,” added Sophie.

“It’s also great to be able to get back late on a Sunday and know that because the truck isn’t doubling as my everyday transport, I don’t have to get it ready to use for my work commute on Monday morning.”

Product News...

Equimins’ Stable Fresh is a non-harmful, long lasting, dry disinfectant powder that is perfect for the lorry or trailer.

The powder is antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal and can be used as and when needed, to help improve hygiene. As it’s dry, it won’t add ‘wet’ to the environment, which is particularly useful in a lorry or trailer, and doesn’t need drying time either.

RRP: from£14.95. www.equimins.com

If you need bedding for the lorry or trailer, look no further than Aquamax. Not only is it really easy to use, it has lots of attributes that make it the ideal bedding for transport.

Aquamax is made from pure pine whitewood, which naturally removes the smell of ammonia from urine.

Ammonia is more than just unpleasant; it can actually have a detrimental impact on the respiratory system. As the bedding is also virtually dust free, the horse’s breathing is further supported. In addition it’s so very absorbent, soaking up urine quickly so that your horse won’t be standing in ‘wet’ during his time in the lorry or trailer.

15.9kg bags RRP of £6.99. www.aquamax.co.uk

The V-Tie is a breakable tether that’s ideal for the lorry or trailer.

It’s made using strong material with a touch and close fastening that will release when the horse pulls back sharply, or if the owner pulls up on the red tab.

RRP of £9.95. www.moorlandrider.co.uk

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Regional Aftersales Directors Martyn Clipston (left) and Graham Broughton

truckEAst updAtE As one of the largest independently owned dealer groups in the UK, the growth of TruckEast Ltd has resulted in it climbing the ranks of the prestigious Suffolk 100, becoming the 10th largest private company in Suffolk.

Other companies in the top 10 include East of England Co-op, Turners of Soham and Maritime Group, all of which are customers of TruckEast.

4×4 vEhiclE hirE local family business, 4×4 Vehicle Hire Norfolk & Suffolk provides a practical and affordable 4×4 hire service throughout Suffolk, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. "We are well positioned to serve customers throughout the Counties, with a diverse range of 4×4 hire cars, specialising in Land Rovers and Range Rovers available for towing, holidays in UK and Europe or just for fun!” said Jenny James.

Discounts are provided for longer term hires and every vehicle comes with insurance and a substantial mileage allowance. Optional extras include European insurance cover and delivery and collection. www.4x4vehicle.co.uk/4x4-hire-suffolk

A

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SADDLERY & TACK

IN THIS ISSUE THE TEAM AT THE SOCIETY OF MASTER SADDLERS LOOK AT THE TOPIC OF OLD SADDLES VERSUS NEW AND THE IMPORTANCE OF THE FACILITIES AVAILABLE FOR THE QUALIFIED SADDLE FITTER WHEN THEY VISIT.

Hidden HEALTH HAzArd?

I

s your saddle a comfy classic or a hidden health hazard? Is it really worth splashing out on a brand new fitted saddle or is your old faithful fit for its job?

Whether buying a new or second hand saddle it is important to have it fitted by a qualified saddle fitter and have it checked regularly. Also remember old saddles can be improved with a complete reflock.

New saddle versus old really depends on the finance available and without doubt a correctly fitted second-hand saddle is far better than an ill-fitting new one!

But whether new or second hand what is key is to have the saddle correctly fitted by a Qualified Saddle Fitter.

Planning ahead and providing the ‘right’ facilities helps the saddle fitter to give the best

38

is a fact that some believe their possible service. Ideally you presence isn't a necessary should fulfil the following factor. Occasionally horses are criteria: ‘shared’ or ridden regularly by • A flat, hard surface where the more than one person and, in horse can be stood up and run this case, both riders should be up in-hand. present.

• An area where the horse can be ridden. Saddle fitting can take • Wear something suitable.

Sometimes clients are a considerable time and the unsuitably dressed. Jeans and saddle fitter is likely to want trainers are always inadequate the horse owner to ride in a and they certainly aren’t the number of short-listed saddles, an important part of the fitting most comfortable clothes in which to try out short-listed procedure. saddles.

• Showjumping and CrossCountry. If you are opting for a • The Society of Master Saddlers generally cautions that the saddle designed specifically for well-fitting saddle does not dressage, polo or showing it is require the addition of very unlikely you will be wanting to use the saddle for anything under it with the jumping! If you are considering possible exception of a thin saddle cloth. There are, purchasing a saddle that will however, exceptions to every involve jumping, it is essential rule. When there is a valid to ride over a few fences. reason for using a numnah or • Rider Presence. Although this will appear remarkably obvious gel pad the saddle fitter will to the vast majority of riders, it need to allow for the addition.

• Have your own stirrup leathers and girth available. The saddle fitter will be carrying girths of various types and sizes but it is a good idea to have your own available. Using your own stirrup leathers is generally more comfortable and avoids the possibility of the saddle fitter’s new leathers becoming marked and therefore difficult to sell. The saddle fitter would obviously prefer to preserve the condition of his new saddles but, in addition, the marks left on the wellgroomed horse’s back after removal of the saddle are significant because they indicate bearing surfaces and further identify unwanted movement. When the horse is ill-groomed, the marks left by the saddle may be blurred or indistinguishable. www.mastersaddlers.co.uk

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Product News...

Kate Negus’s Short Stud Girth was designed with one of the company’s sponsored event riders, to create a product that is perfect for the job.

The English leather Short Stud Girth has a large kicking plate to help protect the horse, elasticated girth straps at both ends to help support the best fit and prevent common girthing issues, and two central loops (one metal, one leather with buckle) to allow training aids, martingales and breastplates to be attached with ease.

RRP: £180 (for a 22”-28” stud girth). www.katenegus.com

The Elastic Grackle Bridle is popular with event riders and is ideal for horses that need the action of a grackle to perform to their best potential, but don’t like the fixed nature of leather.

The bridle is made using English leather and can be bought with a regular leather headpiece or the Grand Prix Padded, which helps to reduce poll pressure and improve comfort. The noseband is made using a combination of English leather, specially selected elastic and sheepskin where the straps cross across the horse’s nose. The style and size of all the component pieces can be chosen at the time of purchase, to get a bridle that fits your horse and your style first time.

RRP: £150. Leather grackles are also available. www.katenegus.com

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REPORTS

Woodbridge riders crow R

ecently, teams from Woodbridge School competed at the Suffolk County Show Jumping and Suffolk County Dressage Qualifiers for the NSEA County Championships at the end of April.

On Saturday 28th January at The Jays, Bury St Edmunds, many Schools from all over Suffolk were contesting for the NSEA Suffolk County Show Jumping Qualifiers from 70cms-1.10m.

Woodbridge Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s riding teams are going from strength to strength with the younger team members showing the way winning the 70cms Suffolk County Show Jumping Qualifier;

Perdi Ludgrove and Billy

40

Dressage Team; (L-R: Caragh Paul (third), Tabitha Wilson-Smith (sixth), Rowena Wilson-Smith (second) and Oliver Reid

crowning them Suffolk Champions and qualifying them to represent both Suffolk and the School at the County Championships.

The four team members of Perdi Ludgrove (11), Olivia Brown(13), Tess Walker and Ada Marson(11) all produced clear rounds with Ada

Ada Marson riding Rolly Rascal

producing an extremely fast round taking second individually, narrowly missing winning and qualifying herself as an

Ab Horse MARCH pages 28 to 52 final_Layout 1 21/02/2017 09:57 Page 41

w ned Suffolk Champions individual as well.

Tabitha Wilson-Smith rode a top class round to take the individual Suffolk County title and qualify for the Championships in the 90cms with the team of Tabitha Wilson-Smith, Rowena Wilson-Smith, Zara Lye and Fleur Ludgrove narrowly missing out qualifying themselves by taking the second place.

On Sunday the 29th January, a team of Woodbridge Riders contested the Suffolk County Dressage Qualifier at Easton College.

The Team of Caragh Paul, Tabitha Wilson-Smith, Rowena Wilson-Smith and the youngest member Oliver Reid did exceptionally well to win the Dressage qualifier and secure their place to the Championships.

Woodbridge Teams were also fourth in the 70cms, third and fourth in the 80cms Qualifier.

Woodbridge Riders train every Monday after school throughout the terms and then compete at all the main NSEA qualifying competitions.

Suffolk County Dressage Champions: 70cms Show Jumping Team: (L-R) Ada Marson (second individually), Olivia Brown, Perdi Ludgrove and Tess Walker

Start â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;em young!

One-year-old Robyn Jacobs enjoying our February issue whilst mum, Victoria, is checking out the new equestrian isle at Decathlon Lakeside.

Have your candid snaps published by emailing them to tom@ahmagazine.com Olivia Brown riding Flash

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REPORTS

Go Rebecca! TEN NEW

AMBASSADORS SELECTED TO FLY THE FLAG FOR PETPLAN EQUINE Rebecca Everitt, a pupil of Kings School Ely will be representing Cambridgeshire in this year’s National Schools Petplan Equine, one of the UK’s leading specialist equine insurance providers, has Equestrian Association County announced the final ten chosen Ambassadors who will spend 2017 helping to Championships. promote the brand and the benefits of insuring your horse.

Rebecca and her pony, Boston Petplan Equine 2017 Ambassadors include: Hero (Jacko) secured their place NELLE DISLEY from Great Shelford in Cambridgeshire after winning the Novice Dressage at the College of West NELLE DISLEY from Great Shelford in Cambridgeshire will be the youngest of the 10 Anglia in January. The pair will Petplan Equine Ambassadors – she may be just 15 but she already has ambitions to now represent Cambridge at Addington Manor, Buckingham be a vet and has a very professional approach to her horses, apparently, she sat on her in April. first horse at only two days old!

The Kings School squad As Nelle prepares for her GCSEs this year she is determined to make the most of her consisting of Rebecca, Ellie role as a Petplan Equine Ambassador intending to work with the Pony Club and Riding Grimsey, Thea Holdaway and Club to promote the importance of horse insurance and the benefits of insuring with Pheobe Plumb were second in Petplan Equine. the team event narrowly missing Nelle considers herself very lucky to have been brought up with horses and sees this out on a team qualification. opportunity as an exciting first step into a career in the equestrian world.

Phoebe was placed third in the individuals.

4 and Rebecca is 1 16. o in June 20 ck Ja t o g l Ely e sh , ch 6 The UK Polocrosse Association 2017 Year Book gives the results of ings S oo Jacko is ber of the K istrict D em d m the 2016 National Finals, where three out of nine of the Best Female an ve rt ti o p She is an ac d a member of Little players are from Essex despite Essex not even having a UKPA polocrosse Pony Club e an th r fo am d te qualifie is so th Equestrian al team of their own. All of them travel considerable distances to be able to , e ie g av h en r D The pai red by compete. Go girls!

Pony Club. ich is sponso e individuals will h w e ag ss re ch wher They are Matilda Marsh in Upper C Grade representing Kent Target; Jess ar M Regional D in d s el ip pionsh n will be h am h io C it Joslin in E Grade representing Arden (Warwickshire); Xanthe Goodman in e et p th m at co r a place Primary Juniors representing Arden (Warwickshire). compete fo in April.

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The second batch of Charles Britton Equestrian Construction Winter JA Classic Qualifiers took place recently at Addington Manor Equestrian Centre in Buckingham and it was Bobbie Heath and Antonia Platt who forged ahead of their competitors to take a victory apiece after producing careful clear rounds on board their respective rides.

As part of a fifty strong starting field, each and every rider was vying for a sought after qualification Antonia Platt and Carnhill Luna at Addington spot for the prestigious Manor. (Photo: Spidge Photography) Charles Britton Equestrian Construction Winter JA Classic Championship, which will be held during the British Masters International Horse Show, also at SouthView Equestrian Centre (30th June - 2nd July 2017).

A STERLING YEAR FOR BRITISH BRED EQUINES CELEBRATED AT THE BRITISH BREEDERS AWARDS DINNER AND CEREMONY

Charles Britton Equestrian Construction Winter JA Classic Qualifier – Sunday 29th January 2017 Over a technical course, the starting line-up was whittled down from twenty-three to just four talented combinations and it was 15 yearold Antonia Platt from Chelmsford, Essex who took victory. Riding Rosalind Platt’s 11-year-old bay gelding, Carnhill Luna, this combination were able to deliver a precise and speedy treble clear in 35.62 seconds.

Madison Jamison aged 16, from Blackburn, rode Bodyssee Des Avelines, a 10-year-old dark bay mare owned by Nicola Jamison straight into second place. This combination produced the only other treble clear of the class in 38.32 seconds.

Third spot was taken by Nicole Lockhead Anderson from Banchory in Aberdeenshire. Nicole rode Didy Morgan’s 9-year-old piebald mare, Pochantas and she finished on a total of 4 faults after an unfortunate knock of a pole at the final fence.

these potential world-class horses the special recognition they deserve.

Young, professional and amateur breeders were well represented throughout the Awards Ceremony in the Baileys Horse Feeds/British Breeding/BEF Futurity Certificates of Merit. Winners included locally-based Barbara Heaton Smith who was presented with two certificates for CAWrus Boy, eventing foal and CAWrus Girl, eventing 2year-old as were joint breeders Mrs R B Skepper and Mrs P G Marson for Heritage Vadel, endurance yearling and Heritage Arrakis, eventing 3-year-old.

On Saturday 14th January, breeders of the top Britishbred horses from around the country converged in London at the Grange City Hotel, for the annual British Breeders Dinner and Awards Ceremony, organised by the British Horse Foundation.

There has been much to celebrate for British Breeding in 2016 and this glittering occasion affords the breeders of

Photos: Craig Payne

Essex’s Antonia Platt storms to victory

Barbara Heaton-Smith with Jane Buchan from Baileys Horse Feeds

Jane Skepper with Jane Buchan

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PHOTONEWS ❙ Beccles & Bungay Riding Club Dressage ❙ Humberstone Farm ❙ 12th February

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Chris Doyle Photography

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Classified

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MARK HOWES

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HORSEBOX SPECIALISTS IN MOT PREPARATION, MOT TESTING FOR CLASS 4 & 7 VEHICLES, SERVICING, PARTS, SPECIALIST BODY (Aluminium & Wooden) ACCIDENT REPAIRS Welcome old and new customers to their premises at

HOLYWELLS ROAD, IPSWICH TEL: (01473) 216462 Surfaces

Saddleries

Juddpurs Saddlery Specialists in saddle fitting by Society of Master Saddlers qualified saddle fitter.

Most ranges of saddles in stock or we can order.

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Tel: 01986 874800

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RUG WA S RE-PRO HING OF & REPA ING IRS

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QUALIFIED MASTER SADDLER & SADDLE FITTER • Range of quality new, secondhand and synthetic saddles and accessories.

• Impartial, independent, saddle fitting and advice.

• Mobile workshop.

• Re-flocking, top-ups and remedial flocking.

• Full saddle repair service.

Based in Norfolk, but covering a wide area.

Please phone Kay on (07775) 850400 Registered member

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dentist

PROFESSIONAL, QUALIFIED & CARING EQUINE DENTISTRY

Call:

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Instructor

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freelance instructor. over 15 years teaching experience in flat and jumping. i am very patient with nervous riders and young horses. lessons available in Essex area.

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WIX

Battlesbridge Mills Horse & Country Shop

Everything for the Horse & Rider Huge range of tack, accessories, stable supplies Tel: 01268 560008 The Mills, Chelmsford Road, Battlesbridge, Essex SS11 8TR www.horseandcountryshop.co.uk

Fakenham (01328) 851351

EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

Call:

01473 731222

Full range of Horse & Pet, Feed & Bedding Open 7 days a week Indoor schools for hire

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Stockist for a wide range of Horse Feeds; Bedding; Supplements; Requisites.

Horse wormers now available Delivery Service. Everyone welcome.

Come and see us at our new larger premises Clipbush Business Park, Fakenham NR21 8SW

www.gjlaninmalfeeds.co.uk

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Vets in the Spotlight

VETERINARY CONTACTS Ryder-Davies & Partners VETERINARY SURGEONS Our experienced equine team offer a range of services throughout Suffolk, South Norfolk & North Essex Services include: • Full lameness investigations • Teeth rasping & advanced dental work • Pre purchase examinations • Vaccinations, worming regimes • Equine reproductive stud work • BEVA accredited practice for chilled & frozen semen • Investigation of breeding problems in mares Facilities include: Inpatient and outpatient stabling with 24 hour care • Digital x-ray, In-house laboratory, endoscope & digital ultrasound.

We offer: Visits on a round-reduced visit fee Yard visit days- no visit fee • Spread the cost health plans Regular client information evenings & newsletters. www.ryder-daviesvets.co.uk

24 Hour Emergency Support Tel: 01394 380083

01284 789428

Bury St Edmunds Suffolk IP29 4NP www.hawkedonvets.co.uk

Essex based mobile veterinary practice Advanced dentistry, lameness evaluations, portable Xray, ultrasound, portable video gastroscopy/endoscopy all carried out in the comfort of your horses’s home.

Pre purchase examinations.

24 hour local emergency cover.

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Wherry Veterinary Group Bungay, Suffolk

Working with you for the health and wellbeing of your equine companions.

Take advantage of our experienced equine team and our modern, purpose built premises.

01986 892771 48

HAWKEDON VETS EQUINE PRACTICE

Ab Horse MARCH pages 28 to 52 final_Layout 1 21/02/2017 09:57 Page 49

SHOWDATE DIARY Your showdate listings for... March/April 2017 WEDNESDAY 1ST MARCH DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 THURSDAY 2ND MARCH DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; Dressage. Tel: 01255 870744 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01449 711962 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 FRIDAY 3RD MARCH SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Open Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SATURDAY 4TH MARCH DRESSAGE Norfolk: Easton & Otley College; British Dressage. Tel: 01603 731577 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; British Dressage. Tel: 01760 722616 EVENTER TRIAL Beds: The College EC; Eventer Trial. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; NSEA Showjumping. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Cross Pole Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SUNDAY 5TH MARCH DRESSAGE Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01760 722616 DRESSAGE Suffolk: GWC EC; Dressage.

Tel: 01379 388743 EVENTER TRIAL Beds: Twin Trees EC; Arena Eventer Trial. Tel: 01767 627414 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; Area 31 British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm

EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01328 878282 WEDNESDAY 8TH MARCH DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 THURSDAY 9TH MARCH DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 FRIDAY 10TH MARCH SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Novice Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SATURDAY 11TH MARCH ARENA EVENTING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Indoor Arena Eventing. Tel: 01449 711962 DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; British Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 DRIVING Essex: Wix EC; Indoor Driving.

Tel: 01473 735732 EVENTERS CHALLENGE Suffolk: The Jays; NSEA Eventers Challenge. Tel: 01284 386014 HORSE TRIALS Suffolk: Poplar Park EC; Poplar Park Horse Trials. Tel: 01438 940790 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01328 878282 SUNDAY 12TH MARCH DRESSAGE Essex: Finchingfield EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01371 811881 DRESSAGE Essex: Harolds Park Farm EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01279 414310 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Boyton Hall EC; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07881 802129

DRIVING Norfolk: Easton & Otley College; Indoor Carriage Driving. Tel: 01986 798756 EVENTERS CHALLENGE Suffolk: The Jays; NSEA Eventers Challenge. Tel: 01284 386014 HORSE TRIALS Suffolk: Poplar Park EC; Poplar Park Horse Trials. Tel: 01438 940790 JUMPCROSS Essex: Codham Park EC; JumpCross Competition. Tel: 07769 907076 SHOWING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Unaffiliated Showing. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Winter Woolies Showing Show. Tel: 01328 878282 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 MONDAY 13TH MARCH DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 TUESDAY 14TH MARCH COMBINED TRAINING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Combined Training. Tel: 01708 687312 DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage inc Freestyle. Tel: 01234 708400 WEDNESDAY 15TH MARCH DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 THURSDAY 16TH MARCH DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; Dressage. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 FRIDAY 17TH MARCH DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; British Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Centaur Trust; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07881 802129 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Open Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SATURDAY 18TH MARCH

DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01255 870744 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Centaur Trust; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07881 802129 FUN DAY Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping and Showing.

Tel: 01328 878282 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Easton & Otley College; Norfolk Showjumping Club. peasley@somertonhall.net SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SUNDAY 19TH MARCH DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01255 870744 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01328 878282 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01449 711962 ONE DAY EVENT Essex: Codham Park EC; One Day Event. Tel: 07769 907076 SHOWING Suffolk: The Jays; NPS Area 15 Working Hunter. Tel: 01284 386014 SHOWJUMPING Beds: Twin Trees EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01767 627414 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Harolds Park Farm EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01279 414310 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Easton & Otley College; Norfolk Showjumping Club. peasley@somertonhall.net MONDAY 20TH MARCH DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 WEDNESDAY 22ND MARCH DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 THURSDAY 23RD MARCH DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 Continued over page

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SHOWDATE DIARY Your showdate listings for... March/April 2017 FRIDAY 24TH MARCH DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; British Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 HORSE TRIALS Norfolk: Blackwater Farm; Great Witchingham International Horse Trials. Tel: 07775 868546 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Novice Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01328 878282 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Novice Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SATURDAY 25TH MARCH DRESSAGE Cambs: Fenning Farm EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01353 727109 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Easton & Otley College; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01603 731577 HORSE TRIALS Norfolk: Blackwater Farm; Great Witchingham International Horse Trials. Tel: 07775 868546 SHOWING Beds: The College EC; BSPA Show. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Cross Working Hunter Show. Tel: 01449 711962 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SUNDAY 26TH MARCH COMBINED TRAINING Beds: The College EC; Combined Training. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Beds: Twin Trees EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01767 627414 DRESSAGE Essex: Codham Park EC; British Dressage. Tel: 07769 907076 DRESSAGE Essex: Norton Heath EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07971 989135 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Easton & Otley College; Team Quest Dressage. Tel: 01603 731577 DRESSAGE SuffolkEaston Park Stud; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07881 802129 HORSE TRIALS Norfolk: Blackwater Farm; Great Witchingham International Horse Trials. Tel: 07775 868546 JUMPCROSS Essex: Codham Park EC; JumpCross Training. Tel: 07769 907076 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall

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EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01328 878282 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 TUESDAY 28TH MARCH DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage inc Freestyle. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 07769 907076 WEDNESDAY 29TH MARCH DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 THURSDAY 30TH MARCH DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; Dressage. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 SATURDAY 1ST APRIL DRESSAGE Suffolk: Boyton Hall EC; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07881 802129 DRESSAGE Suffolk: GWC EC; Dressage.

Tel: 01379 388743 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Cross Pole Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SUNDAY 2ND APRIL DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; NSEA Ind & Team Dressage. Tel: 01255 870744 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC;

Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01328 878282 SHOWING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Affiliated Showing. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 07769 907076 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 TUESDAY 4TH APRIL SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 07769 907076 WEDNESDAY 5TH APRIL DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 THURSDAY 6TH APRIL ARENA EVENTING Essex: Codham Park EC; Arena Eventing. Tel: 07769 907076 DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Beds: Twin Trees EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01767 627414 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Very Novice Showjumping. Tel: 01255 870744 FRIDAY 7TH APRIL DRIVING Beds: The College EC; Indoor

Driving. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Novice Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SATURDAY 8TH APRIL DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 DRESSAGE Essex: Codham Park EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07769 907076 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01255 870744 DRIVING Beds: The College EC; Indoor Driving. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SUNDAY 9TH APRIL DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 DRESSAGE Essex: Harolds Park Farm EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01279 414310 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01255 870744 DRIVING Beds: The College EC; Indoor Driving. Tel: 01234 708400 EVENTER TRIAL Beds: Twin Trees EC; Arena Eventer Trial. Tel: 01767 627414 JUMPCROSS Essex: Codham Park EC; JumpCross Competition. Tel: 07769 907076 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01371 811881 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01328 878282 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962

TSR Showing Finals Your LOCAL Showing Finals!

East Anglia Final 9th August within Equifest, Peterborough

South East Final 20th August within Collettes Show, Meopham Qualify at a show near YOU! You do not have to be a member to qualify or enter

www.theshowingregister.co.uk

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ENTRIES CLOSE 17TH APRIL

NPS AREA 14

LATE ENTRIES ACCEPTED

Sunday 23rd April 2017

Ashfields Carriage Driving & Polo Centre, Essex Quals: NPS, BSPA, SSADL, PUK, BSHA, SHB(GB), TGCA(GB), EQUIFEST, ICENI NATIVE PONY SHOW, NORTH OF ENGLAND SHOW, RIHS M&M WHP. pionship PUK Dalkeith Young Riders M&M Ridden RIHS Cham sae Mrs M. Kidman, Romans Farm, Rettendon Common, Chelmsford, Essex CM3 8HQ or www.npsarea14.co.uk

HADLEIGH SHOW Holbecks Park, Hadleigh IP7 5PE

Saturday 20th May 2017 Affiliated BSHA, BSJ, BSPA, P(UK), BDS, DBS, Ridden, In-hand & Working Hunters, Local Hunt Classes Schedules available from:

www.hadleighshow.co.uk or send C5 SAE to PO Box 1027, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 9XG Entries close - 24th April 2017

Tradestand entries closed

THE SOUTH SUFFOLK SHOW Ampton, Ingham, Nr Bury St Edmunds

Sunday 14th May 2017 Schedule for British Showjumping (Snr), SSA, P(UK), Private Driving, Donkeys, Suffolk Punch Heavy Horses. RIHS Qualifiers for SHB(GB), BSHA, BSPS, P(UK) & BSPA. Entries close 20th April 2016

Schedule and E-Tickets are available via www.southsuffolkshow.co.uk or forward C5 SAE to Secretary: Geoff Bailles, 35 Dalham Road, Moulton, Newmarket CB8 8SB Tel: 01638 750879

Sunday 7th May from 10am

At Easton Farm Park, Suffolk (IP13 0EQ) Horse Classes:- Showing, Show Jumping & Fun Classes - All Levels Welcome Dog Show Classes:- Affiliated & Unaffiliated - All Levels Welcome

All schedules for Horse & Dog Show are on www.suffolkyfc.com More Information: Cherry Clements 07970 668558

Caddington & District Riding Club 21st May • 11th June • 9th July 13th August RB Equestrian CTR Qualifiers 15+Horse and Pony Events Equifest TSR Horsezone The Sunshine Tour

Affiliated & Unaffiliated In-hand, Ridden & Working Hunter Classes, Unaffiliated Show Jumping and Private Driving Classes General Entries Close: Friday 16th June Unaffiliated Show Jumping Close: Friday 23rd June

Tendring Showground, Lawford House Park, Nr Manningtree, Essex CO11 2ND

All shows held at Dovehouse Farm, Dovehouse Lane, Kensworth Beds LU6 2PQ

For a schedule send an A4 SAE to: Jackie Wood, 6 Adams Way, Tring, Herts HP23 5DY

www.caddingtonridingclub.co.uk

Schedules available to download from the end of March at:

www.tendringshow.co.uk or www.horsedates.co.uk

Ponies U Senior Sho K, Osborne R wing, efri Driving & gerators Do Breed Soci nkey et qualifiers y

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