What is it with Cresty Necks?
How to Care for an Older Horse
Coping with Paddock Wounds
How to Feed Treats to a Horse Safely
What you need to know about Seedy Toe
Massage and Bodywork – is it Safe for Pregnant Mares and Foals?
HORSE: X XXXX XXXXXXX
MICROCHIP: …483
DATES OF EXAMINATION:
14TH APRIL / 17TH MAY
2021 /14TH JUNE
PLACE: XXXXX XXXX CANUNGRA
Bilateral hind cannon radiographs of X XXXX XXXXXX were taken on 14th April 21 and again 17th May 21 and 14th June 21. Initial radiographs showed a 32mm longitudinal non displaced left mid cannon saucer fracture extending 6mm into the dorsal cortex and a 44mm longitudinal displaced fracture right mid cannon 5.5mm in depth mid dorsal cortex associated proximally with a 27mm x 6.5mm secondary fracture (see right). Initially, surgical removal was recommended of the R H fracture fragment.
A second series was taken on 17th May and third series on 14th June see right. Both fractures have attached and integrated with the parent bone with minor surface
enthesophyte formation and periosteal activity evident.
Recommendations:
Surgery is no longer recommended; however, the colt should be monitored carefully for any swelling on either cannon. Prognosis for full return to racing is good.
Comments:
Fractures of this nature usually require surgical removal. Resolution of cortical fractures of this size without surgical intervention is not expected.
Bone Gold supplementation was initiated on 14th April 21 at 3 x scoops/day and should be continued.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further queries.
Yours Sincerely,
Dr Andrew Watts B.V.Sc. R H 17.05.21 R H 14.04.21
Massage Therapy is extremely beneficial for pregnant mares to help reduce muscle soreness due to compensated movement from the growing fetus. Many mares will begin to develop edema (swelling) under their belly and their legs towards the end of the pregnancy and massage can help mobilize that fluid and decrease the discomfort associated with it. There are some schools of thought that massage and cause pre-mature labor by unintentional stimulation of acupuncture points that are known to be associated with stimulating labor. I have not found this to be the case. I have been working on pregnant mares (both my own and clients) for the past 10+ years and have never had any issues. I do recommend avoiding the abdomen during the massage session (stay away from the fetus) and when in doubt, check with the horse’s veterinarian first!
Body alignment is another very import modality that pregnant mares can benefit from. If the lower back, pelvis or sacrum are out of alignment, there is potential for a difficult birth. Ensuring that the mare is aligned will greatly aid in her ability to pass the foal through the birthing canal.
The images following are of Shea’s recent birth. She was aligned using ANMR technique through her pregnancy and the morning before she foaled.
Kinesiology tape has been used on pregnant women for many years to help decrease back pain and add support due to the increased stress from the weight of the fetus. Mares can benefit from tape as well. The back pain support taping can be used to support the paraspinal muscles.
A common question that I get from both students and clients is if massage and other forms of bodywork are safe for pregnant mares and foals. The basic answer is yes. I will explain in this article the types of bodywork mares and foals can benefit from.
Contraindications would include any underlying health issues, such as infection (placentitis), inflammatory conditions or any other health issue that would be a contraindication for massage in general. It is always best to consult with the mare’s veterinarian before working on a pregnant mare.
It is never too soon to start massaging foals and introducing them to bodywork. This is a great time in their lives to get them used to having your hands on them and utilizing other tools such as mechanical massage tools, body alignment tools, red light pads, etc. Massage and bodywork will allow them to maintain proper function and range of motion as they grow and will also prepare them mentally to be handled as adults. I always perform ANMR technique on my foals to ensure that they are in alignment after labor and also to get them used to the tool. Below is a link to a video of Stoli, receiving her first ANMR session at 10 days old. They normally are standing during the session, but she was so relaxed that she slept through most of it! https:// www.youtube.com/shorts/ XvUSVBWHdG8
Kinesiology tape has been shown to be very beneficial for foals who are suffering from angular limb deformities.
Take Home Message:
Yes, pregnant mares, mares who have recently foaled and foals can all greatly benefit from massage and bodywork. I recommend utilizing someone who is trained in Equine Massage and Bodywork. Want to become trained yourself or add new techniques to your practice?
Check out our courses.
www.HolisticAnimalStudies.org
Dr. Angelique Barbara (affectionally called Dr. Angel by many of her clients) is a Doctor of Chiropractic who holds additional degrees in Veterinary Science (B.S.), Equine Science (Minor) and Veterinary Pathobiology (M.S.). Dr. Barbara has been passionate about animals her entire life and has spent the majority of her life studying animals (both in the classroom and in the field). She developed her first animal bodywork seminar in 2009. Since that time, her seminars have grown both in number and popularity and she has fine tuned her seminars and techniques to optimize the learning experience. Dr. Barbara was one of the first practitioners to start utilizing kinesiology tape on animals and she was so impressed with the results that she decided to develop an entire seminar dedicated to the taping applications she developed. Her background in both the clinical and research animal health care world as well her experience as a human chiropractor give her a unique perspective on animal bodywork, which is evident in her courses.
Arena Rake Bundles start from $1990 inc gst
$599 + shipping, order online now!
As horse owners it is inevitable that at some point you will head out to the paddock to visit your horse only to be confronted by a grisly paddock wound, whether a few days old or new, or be watching on as a seemingly innocent situation suddenly ends in injury. Whilst wounds and lacerations can be alarming and tend to create distress for owners, it is important to remember that with a calm and level-headed approach you can greatly improve the success of any treatment that may be required.
It can be difficult but take a deep breath, put aside emotion and approach the injury with a clear strategy:
• Assess the injury and gather information,
• Involve your vet early with a text or phone call,
• Prevent blood loss as required, and
• Clean the wound and manage until treatment is decided.
Some basic knowledge around how to make an assessment, a good working relationship with your vet, and a well-stocked but simple first aid kit is really all that is needed to ensure the best outcome for your horse. By staying calm and being organised you can likely have the situation under control quickly and effectively.
First and foremost, decide if the injury is an emergency. Emergencies are based on the animal’s immediate welfare and a simple decision can be made on whether blood loss is extreme (it is flowing faster than a garden hose, or at a great distance), the animal is in unbearable pain and deteriorating rapidly, or the injury involves an eye, tendon or joint. In these instances, it is reasonable to request emergency assistance from your vet.
However, the overwhelming percentage of paddock wounds fall into the category of same day or next day treatment. Some basic guidelines to help you determine if the wound needs to be seen that day:
• Eyes, joints and tendons are considered urgent and should at least be assessed the same day. Left unattended these injuries can deteriorate quickly.
• Leg wounds are the most common, but in the case of legs, injuries sustained to the front of the leg are often less serious than those to the back of the leg. The back of the leg involves tendons and structures that may present difficulties if untreated.
• Wounds to the body are not as serious as leg wounds, however they typically respond better to being sutured in which case should be seen to by the vet the same day.
The reality is that whilst they can be unsightly and alarming, lacerations and paddock injuries are rarely true emergencies. There are exceptions to this of course as a catastrophic wound can cause fatal haemorrhage before help arrives, however in most cases same day or next day treatment is perfectly adequate so your role following the discovery of an injury becomes focused on triage and assessing the wound, stopping any major blood loss and cleaning it up in preparation for the vet’s assessment and/or treatment.
If possible, move the horse to a safe and comfortable location. Think about shade, access to water for cleaning the wound, and containing the horse. At the very least ensure both horse and humans are safe from further injury and begin to gather some information about the wound. This includes: location on the horses body, how old the wound appears to be, is it shallow or deep, can you see any tendons or structures, if so are they damaged/severed, how the horse is coping (is he standing or laying down), what the pain level appears to be (signs of pain include shivering, being vocal, abdomen tucked up), and how much blood loss there is. At this point we recommend contacting your vet and providing this information. Even if you decide that the injury isn’t critical, it pays to at least alert them. Maintaining a good working relationship with your vet is key to successful treatment outcomes should complications arise; if the horse suddenly deteriorates at midnight, it is certainly helpful if they were aware of the injury earlier in the day. Your vet will appreciate your information gathering, including clear and close photographs of the injury and they will use it to guide you on the next stages of cleaning and dressing the
Complete equine and bovine veterinary services in the NSW Northern Rivers, covering Lismore, Casino, Kyogle, Bonalbo, Ballina and surrounding areas.
• Equine veterinary dentistry, using Powerfloat and portable crush
• Equine reproduction, including chilled and frozen AI
wound, deciding the best course of action throughout the hours and days that follow, including what products are recommended (if you’re treating yourself) and which to avoid. The point is simple, together you can decide what is best for your horse, if you’re able to provide factual, clear information and the best way to do this is to stay as calm as possible.
It is very likely that you will be required to administer initial first aid at this point and a basic first aid kit for lacerations is vital. Keep it stocked and keep it handy, which includes taking it with you whilst travelling with your horse. You do not need every lotion and potion, but for simple triage purposes it should contain:
• Clean towels or pressure bandage to stop blood flow
• A bucket or container to transport clean water and/or mix cleaning solution
• Plenty of cotton wool or gauze for cleaning the wound
• Betadine/povidone iodine for cleaning
• Cotton dressing roll to apply before bandaging
• Several cohesive and adhesive bandages
• Scissors
•
• Equine surgery, including castrations, leg surgery, other general surgeries (also work closely with specialist equine surgeons)
• Hospitalisation facilities for horses requiring ongoing treatment
• Digital real-time radiography, ultrasonography and endoscopy, including for airways and stomachs
• Equine podiatry, with particular interest in laminitis treatment and rehabilitation
• Equine ophthalmology, including more specialised eye surgeries following eye trauma
Bruno D. Ros BVetBio
MOBILE 0427 293 227
EMAIL bruno@neequinevets.com.au
“Old Dairyvale” 488 B Kyogle Rd Tuncester NSW 2480
www.neequinevets.com.au
equine bodyworker, nutritionist, trainer, farrier, transporter, owner or handler, this program is for you! Enhance your credentials with a certification in Equine First Aid.
If the wound is bleeding with any significance, then it is important to stop the blood flow. This doesn’t require a full bandaging if the location of the wound does not allow and often applying pressure with clean towels will suffice and slow the blood enough for you to begin cleaning the area.
It’s a good reminder now to take another breath. If you’re not good with blood, just remember that often when you begin to clean a wound it may in fact bleed more and look worse than it actually is. Using plenty of clean water, or saline, flush the wound thoroughly and clean any contamination or debris from the injury. Do not rub or pull too harshly and don’t be tempted to cut away any tissue –it may be needed to stitch the wound closed. Follow with an antiseptic cleanse of diluted betadine/povidone iodine. Be liberal with the cleansing process - it is better to be thorough. Pat the entire wound site dry with a clean towel. If the vet is attending later that day or the next, a simple dressing of cotton padding secured with bandages is sufficient and you can monitor your horse for any signs of change until he or she arrives. Sometimes the location of the injury prevents bandaging or there is a trick to getting the dressing to stay in place comfortably. Given the variables and many injury types, your vet can advise you what is appropriate in your situation.
When it comes to wounds there is a lack of evidence-based data to guide treatment. Put simply there are no hard and fast rules that dictate treatment because no two wounds are the same. Many factors come into play when deciding on the correct treatment approach: the site of the wound, the tissue and structures that have been damaged, the health and age of the horse, the desired outcome of treatment. These complexities and how they come together highlight the importance of choosing an experienced vet capable of determining the best treatment.
Often well intentioned owners, armed with an abundance of products and advice from peers, can set about treating the injury themselves without the initial consultation with their vet. While it isn’t always necessary for your vet to attend or even administer treatment, we always recommend at least a simple exchange to decide on the best course of action. While it makes us feel better by applying a range of products to a wound, or fussing over it multiple times a day, we can often over complicate treatment and prolong healing.
Dr Bruno Ros, Senior Veterinarian at North East Equine Vets, runs regular webinars covering a range of common health issues, treatments and general advice for horse owners. Be sure to follow North East Equine Veterinary Services on Facebook for information on the next webinar.
Flax Seed Oil provides the richest (almost 60%) natural source of Omega 3, an essential fatty acid (EFA) which is not generally present in equine foods.
Flax Seed Oil provides the richest (almost 60%) natural source of Omega 3, an essential fatty acid (EFA) which is not generally present in equine foods.
Like all animals, horses cannot manufacture this essential fatty acid which is so important for their overall health.
Like all animals, horses cannot manufacture this essential fatty acid which is so important for their overall health.
Dr Bruno D Ros BVetBio BVSc Hons Veterinarian, North East Equine Veterinary Services
Worried about rancidity and toxicity?
Use Flax for a safer option!
order online www.flaxseedaustralia.co or call 1800 255 288.
order online www.flaxseedaustralia.co or call 1800 255 288.
order online
flaxseedaustralia.com.au or call 1800 255 288
I’ve been a vet for 11 years, graduating with first class honours from Charles Sturt University and have worked in the Snowy Mountains and Northern Rivers of NSW. I am predominantly an equine vet (surgery, medicine, reproduction) but also do plenty of cattle work and other farm animals (sheep, goats, alpacas).
www.neequinevets.com.au
Horses can continue working and being ridden into their twenties if given the proper diet, along with the right care and training. When it’s time to retire a horse from riding or competition, it is our duty to continue to ensure they are cared for into old age...
There are different opinions on what is ‘old’ when it comes to horses. Examples of this are the thoroughbred industry where horses race and retire at a young age versus the dressage space, where horses continue competing (sometimes very successfully) into their late teens.
Whatever age the ‘senior horse’ is, simply leaving him in a paddock to live out his days isn’t kind, humane or healthy. We must ensure they are comfortable, healthy and with mental stimulation and the ability to socialise with other horses. Older horses can be more sensitive to both hot and cold weather. Ensure there is adequate shade (and plenty of water!) and a place to shelter from rain and wind. People often rug older horses in very cold weather to reduce weight loss.
The most common age-related issues in horses include;
• Weight loss and loss of body condition
• Sarcoids and melanomas
• Degenerative joint issues
• Liver and kidneys
• Cataracts
• Arthritis
essential to have these checks.
The quality of the horse’s front teeth can affect its ability to graze. Issues with their molars can affect their ability to grind feed.
An older horse’s gastrointestinal tract ages, decreasing nutrient absorption. Including herbs and tonics is a great way to add more natural forms of nutrition into their diet. If there are no liver issues (some older horses could have chronic kidney or liver failure), you can increase the amount of fat your horse is eating. This is a concentrated source of energy. Hemp is an excellent source of healthy fat.
It’s important that the older horse isn’t pushed beyond their comfort or pain level, but it is essential that your horse can move around and get exercise. Some older horses can still be ridden and may be an excellent ‘school master’ for children or young beginners (where they won’t be pushed hard) if their disposition and health allows it. Over-working, injuries and general wear and tear can result in arthritis for some horses. Be mindful but it often improves as the horse warms up.
McDowells Recommendations
Weight Gain Program
This program was formulated to address the underlying gastrointestinal issues that are present in rescue or underweight horses. Healing the gut is the first step to helping a horse gain weight.
We want to focus on building lean muscle mass and laying down healthy fat stores. Our herbal formulations and tonics play an essential part in rehabilitating a horse and building weight. By returning the horse’s gut to an optimal condition, they’ve got a much better chance of gaining weight more effectively - which means less fuss and less money being spent by you!
Some horses are more inclined to be ‘hard doers’ while others have physical, environmental or emotional reasons for having difficulty in keeping weight on. You should never be in a rush for a horse to gain weight. Approach weight gain as you would weight loss - slowly and steadily, with their overall health in mind.
McDowells Equihemp Pro
Equihemp-Pro Certified Organic Hemp Meal - 50% Protein. Highly digestible and safe protein source with all the essential amino and fatty acids required for a healthy diet. Hemp protein is gluten free and a good source of cool energy and with its unique combination of essential amino and fatty acids is a super food that can ease joint pain and inflammation, support cardiovascular health, improve the condition of the skin, coat, hooves, and tail, and act as a digestive aid. Hemp is high in fibre and vitamin C, vitamin E, and chlorophyll, and is highly palatable. Unlike soy and other legumes, hemp does not contain trypsin inhibitors and oligosaccharides, which can cause stomach and gastric upsets.
A combination of modern connective tissue supplements such as MSM and glucosamine, with the added benefits of traditional herbal medicine. EquiFlex is designed to provide effective nourishment and nutrition to joints, tendons, ligaments and cartilage.
Some of the key ingredients and actions are;
- MSM has science backed health benefits including decreasing joint pain, improving symptoms associated with inflammation, reducing muscle damage, reducing pain and stiffness, boosting immunity.
- Glucosamine is used by the body to make other chemicals that build tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and the fluid that surrounds joints.
- Equihemp contains both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids with a 1:3 ratio, which is more favourable than the ratio found in soybeans.
- Turmeric is able to reduce inflammation and the associated pain substantially when added to your horse’s diet alongside pepper.
- Rosehips are one of the very best sources of natural Iron and Vitamin C. They also contain biotin for optimum hoof health.
- Yarrow counters tissue swelling and inflammation and encourages bone marrow health. Meadowsweet has an ability to reduce acids in the body including around the joints.
References
1. Taking Care of the Senior Horse
2. Care for the Older Horse: Diet and Health. Sarah L. Ralston, VMD, Ph.D., dACVN, Department of Animal Science, Cook College, Rutgers University
3. Ralston, S.L. 1989. Digestive alterations in aged horses. J. Eq. Vet. Sci. 9:203-205, 1989.
CLINIC: (02) 6331 3937 INTERNATIONAL: +61 2 6331 3937
EMAIL: info@mcdowellsherbal.com
WEB: www.mcdowellsherbal.com
A combination of modern connective tissue supplements such as MSM and glucosamine with the added benefits of traditional herbal medicine.
A few months ago, I shared an article called Horses that Bite. In the article I said I don’t give horses treats until the biting behaviour has stopped, and they have learnt to turn the head away for treating. Someone asked me to explain how to train this behaviour, so here goes. As always, this is how I do it, I am sure there are other techniques just as effective, I can only share mine.
I stand beside the horses’ head and raise my hand containing the treat so the horse can see and smell it. If they turn the head toward me for the treat, I nudge the head away or just wait, depending on the horse and if they are being aggressive or not. I stay in that position, holding the treat and waiting for the horse to try different things out. Basically, I am asking a question, and I am waiting for them to find the correct answer. The moment they turn the head away from me, even if it’s to look at someting in the environment, I reach over and give them the treat. This first time can take a while, so be patient. If the horse just doesn’t turn the head away at all, to start the behaviour off you can show them the answer by using the lead rope to move the head away, then treating. After a while they’ll get the link.
It is particularly important to take the treat to them. If you hesitate and give the reward as the head comes back toward you, you are rewarding the wrong behaviour. You are reinforcing the head coming toward you then, so you must be fast and make sure the treat arrives with the head still turned away. This can take a bit of practise, so don’t worry if you get the timing wrong the first few attempts. At first, when the horse sees the treat hand moving they will try and come toward it. Later on, they begin to move the head further and further away when the treat hand moves. It can take a few sessions to establish this behaviour. Once you have it on one side, repeat the process on the other side. Some horses think they are being rewarded for going to the right/left, not for turning away. So, when you change sides they will turn right/left instead of away. This is just a misunderstanding on the horses’ part, so be patient with them and start back at the beginning for the other side.
Once you have the horse moving their head away consistently from both sides, then it is time to work on duration. Repeat your normal position and when the horse turns the head away, instead of giving the treat straight away hold off for a moment. Count a few seconds and if the horse holds give the treat. If they break and turn toward you, wondering where the treat is as they have done the right thing, just be patient and wait again until they turn away before treating. Slowly increase the amount of time you hold off. This duration training is a gem. It brings a sense of space and calm into the whole treating process. Instead of the horse becoming over excited by treats, they learn self-control and patience. As you can imagine, learning these qualities is going to be of enormous benefit in other areas of your horse training as well.
If you find that your horse starts to nip because of being given treats, discontinue treating and work on stopping the nipping as described in the Horses that Bite article. This may be a transitory behaviour and when you go back to training the head away, the nipping does not resume, fantastic.
All horses are different, in some cases the horse is not able to learn the self-control and patience required to be able to be given treats safely and without engendering negative behaviours such as nipping and biting. With horses that get over excited, trying out different types of treats can help, as not all treats have the same yumminess level. I know a mare who will rear up if treats appear. She is fine with anything in a bucket but loses all self-control with handheld treats. With these types of horses, it is best not to treat from the hand. If you do want to give a treat, put it in a bucket or on the ground.
Many people want to treat a horse after they have worked, and it is an essential part of positive reinforcement training. So it is good to ensure that safety is always maintained, especially if there is any likelihood of children giving the horse a treat. Done correctly, treating can be a pleasure for both human and horse and be completely safe.
Suzy Maloney B. Eq. Sc. has a degree in Equine Science, has been instructing riding students for 15 years and runs her own business Happy Horses Bitless. Suzy discovered bitless bridles 10 years ago and has now made the promotion of their use her passion. She teaches students exclusively in bitless bridles, gives bitless clinics, writes articles, gives talks on bitless riding and sells bitless bridles through her web page.
Suzy believes we can communicate with horses using gentleness, intuition and an open mind. Her lessons are a combination of classical riding, natural horsemanship and the understanding of equine behaviour.
Suzy Maloney B.Eq.Sc. HAPPY HORSES BITLESS | Phone: 0401 249 263
Email: suzy@happyhorsesbitless.com | www.happyhorsesbitless.com
Happy Horses Bitless Bridles
Obesity is defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as accumulation that may impair health’. Horses are not immune one of the most important welfare issues of today. Surveys from certain equine populations, between 27 and 50% of horses are obese. In Australia and New Zealand 30-60% of leisure horses overweight – ie too fat! The gold standard to assess fat mass based on Archimedes’ principle that an object will displace its people holding their breath while completely submerged in water
Body condition scoring (BCS) is the most common method to principle of looking at and feeling the fat deposits. Although it found between higher BCS, problems with blood glucose levels of pasture-associated laminitis. Monitoring fatness in horses remains under-recognition of obesity by owners combined with the syndrome resistance’ and the specific patterns of fat accumulation and fatty adiposity’) around the prepuce (sheath), the udder, near the shoulders, crest.
There are several ways to assess how much fat a horse is carrying neck score’ is the easiest one to use – and a reliable sign that disease (Figure 2).
Obesity is defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as ‘abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that may impair health’.
Horses are not immune to the obesity epidemic, which is one of the most important welfare issues of today. Surveys from around the world show that in certain equine populations, between 27 and 50% of horses are too ‘forward’, over-conditioned or obese. In Australia and New Zealand 30-60% of leisure horses and 22% of pony club horses are overweight – ie too fat! The gold standard to assess fat mass in humans is ‘hydrodensitometry’ – based on Archimedes’ principle that an object will displace its own volume of water. This entails people holding their breath while completely submerged in waterimpractical for use in horses!
Figure 1. Measurement sites used in assessing fatness. The a relaxed upright position at approximately a 45° angle from th
NC = neck circumference; NCH = neck crest height; NL = neck length; NC25% = neck circumference at 25% of neck length; NC50% = neck circumference at 50% of neck length; NC75% = neck circumference at 75% of neck length. HW = wither height; GC = girth circumference; WC = waist circumference; BL = body length;
Body condition scoring (BCS) is the most common method to assess fatness in horses - the basic principle of looking at and feeling the fat deposits. Although it has limitations, a link has been found between higher BCS, problems with blood glucose levels and previous or future episodes of pasture-associated laminitis. Monitoring fatness in horses remains challenging, perhaps due to under-recognition of obesity by owners combined with the syndrome in ponies of ‘weight-loss resistance’ and the specific patterns of fat accumulation and fatty thickening (known as ‘regional adiposity’) around the prepuce (sheath), the udder, near the shoulders, the tail head and the neck crest.
The cresty neck score (CNS) rates the accumulation of fat along the neck on a scale of 0 to 5 (Figure 2)
0 No visual appearance of crest (tissue apparent above the ligamentum nuchae). No palpable crest.
1 No visual appearance of crest, but slight filling felt with palpation
2 Noticeable appearance of crest, but fat deposited fairly evenly from poll to withers. Crest easily cupped in one hand and bent from side to side.
3 Crest enlarged and thickened, so fat is deposited more heavily in middle of the neck than toward poll and withers, giving a mounded appearance. Crest fills cupped hand and begins losing side to side flexibility.
4 Crest grossly enlarged and thickened, and can no longer be cupped in one hand or easily bent from side to side. Crest may have wrinkles/creases perpendicular to topline.
5 Crest is so large it permanently droops to one side.
Horses and ponies with a ‘cresty neck score’ of 3 or higher are at greater risk of developing laminitis.
All available at:
Varieties
Styles:
Sizes:
Hole
In humans, abdominal/gut/belly fat, measured as waist circumference, is more closely linked to risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease than fat elsewhere in the body. Similarly, in horses, fat deposited more heavily along the crest of the neck (‘cresty neck’), has been associated with altered metabolic states, including insulin resistance and an increased risk for laminitis. Insulin resistance = being unable to manage blood glucose levels. When blood glucose levels rise, insulin is released from the pancreas to ‘carry’ the glucose into the muscle and liver cells, where it is stored until it’s needed. Insulin ‘resistance’ occurs when the cells don’t respond to insulin. When this happens, glucose and insulin stay in the blood. High blood glucose and insulin can cause major health problems. The metabolic syndrome of equids resembles the well-characterized syndrome in humans where excess body fat and insulin-resistance are linked (Table 1). Together they cause ‘metabolic syndrome’ (EMS) which is a derangement of several normal body processes. It has a genetic basis and in horses (and humans) that are genetically susceptible, the combination of an unhealthy diet + insufficient exercise is the path to metabolic syndrome.
In horses, EMS can be a consequence of giving starch/sugar-rich feed (Table 2.) or it may be seasonal and linked to the sugar/starch content of the pasture. Fatness is strongly linked to feeds with more than 15% NSC. Such feeds cause blood glucose to rise too high for too long.
Table 2. Nonstructural carbohydrate NSC (NSC = starch + sugar) levels in common feedstuffs
Feeds >12% are not recommended for horses and ponies with insulin resistance
*Proceedings
Throughout their 55 million-year evolution, horses have developed ‘thrifty genes’ which allowed them to survive times of feed scarcity. Genetically susceptible horses quickly become fat when food is abundant and excessively rich (with no intervening periods of famine or ice ages!!) and exercise is limited. Exercise in domestic horses compares poorly to wild and free-range horses. Free-range and feral horses exercise for around 16km/day; horses in a 40 acre paddock about 7km/day and stabled horses for 1km.
In addition, fat is no longer dismissed as a benign deposit of stored energy. Fat cells produce a range of hormones that affect insulin, blood vessels, the immune system, body mass and body composition. The fat cells in horses’ necks (and humans’ bellies) produce more hormones than fat cells elsewhere in the body and these hormones increase the risk of metabolic
Learn all about equine nutrition through a holistic viewpoint. This course covers the equine digestive system, body scoring, types of forages (hay and grasses), vitamins and minerals, water intake, herbs, supplementation and more!
20 hour course
10 hours online classroom time
10 hours performing nutrition case studies
Start anytime and work at your own pace. This course never expires so you will always have access to the material!
www.HolisticAnimalStudies.org/ animal-nutrition.html
Australian certified mineral–charcoal toxin binder and gut balancer to support digestive health through all seasons. Mix with feeds, probiotics and supplements.
From your local FEEDCHAR® stockist, or post direct, via www.agspand.com.au
syndrome. The other thing that happens to fat cells is that when they are packed too full with fat they swell and squash off their blood vessels, reducing blood and oxygen supply and becoming ‘sick’ and toxic. Another source of toxicity in horses with cresty necks, is ‘glucotoxicity’ which is caused by high sugar in the blood and inside the cells. High blood sugar damages blood vessels and the hoof. In the hoof, glucotoxicity causes the blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow to the foot and laminae.
The most common causes of laminitis presented to vets are endocrine (ie hormonal - especially insulin) and metabolic disorders – both related to insulin and blood sugar. Early recognition of horses with insulin resistance means preventive measures can be taken earlier – before the disease progresses to laminitis. Excellent research from the University of Queensland confirmed that the amount of neck fat is a reliable sign of insulin dysregulation and a stronger identifier of impending laminitis, than BCS. Eliminating feeds that are over 12% starch and sugar (NSC) and replacement of sugar and starch-based feeds with low NSC feeds (Table 2.) underpins dietary management. The term ‘pasture-associated laminitis’ describes cases of laminitis that occur in seemingly healthy horses and ponies grazing pasture – between 45 and 60% of cases occur under these circumstances, and in addition to elimination of sugar/starch/ NSC-rich feeds, preventing grazing may be necessary to prevent laminitis in EMS-prone horses and ponies.
Identification of healthy horses and ponies that are genetically predisposed to EMS before they become affected is the aim. But until genetic testing is readily available, owners should work with their veterinarians to monitor their horses’ laminitis risk. Knowledge of what’s going on with cresty necks and monitoring blood insulin and glucose levels are the cornerstone. The WHO recognizes that obesity is more than just a threshold amount of fat tissue. It is a sign of metabolic diseases and dysfunctional fat depots that are potentially harmful to health. Some owners don’t recognise that their horse is ‘fat’– making picking up on early signs of insulin resistance really important. Insulin resistance and metabolic disease can also lead to abnormal hoof growth rings, separation of the hoof wall from the white line and seedy toe as the laminae weaken. Small areas of haemorrhage
GOT BALLS? We do!
Bare Equine Beeswax Blue Balls, a powerball for Seedy Toe, White Line distortions and resections in Horses & Hooved animals.
(caused by damage to the lamina blood vessels) in the seedy toe area might also be seen. So keep an eye on those necks and hooves as they are likely to be the first sign of disease, and have your veterinarian check your horse’s insulin levels.
How good are you at assessing how fat your horse is?
https://www.mdpi.com/2306-7381/9/10/544
How to score your horse’s neck using studies from Queensland University of Technology, Laminitis Survey: https://cms.qut.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/329616/how-to-assigna-cresty-neck-score.pdf
© Dr J H Stewart December 2022
All content provided in this editorial is for general use and information only and does not constitute advice or a veterinary opinion. It is not intended as specific medical advice or opinion and should not be relied on in place of consultation with your equine veterinarian.
CEO BVSc BSc PhD Dip BEP Equine Veterinarian and Consultant Nutritionist
Dr Jen Stewart has been an equine veterinarian for more than 40 years and an equine nutritionist for more than 10 years. Jen has been developing premium formulas for studs, trainers and feed companies in Australia and around the world and regularly consults to leading international studs and trainers in various countries.
Jen has spent a fair bit of time researching and being involved in nutritional management of developmental orthopaedic diseases, colic, tying-up, laminitis, performance problems, post-surgery and other conditions. And is currently the only practicing equine veterinarian and clinical nutritionist in Australia. Jen’s promise is to continue to
www.jenquine.com
Perfect for horses with thin soles, abscesses, founder & laminitis
Managing sand accumulation is often a difficult task. However, in an initial trial by West Coast Veterinary Hospital, in-sandout has been shown to be a reliable solution for reducing the accumulation of sand.
Below, we discuss sand impaction and sand enteropathy, explain how in-sandout works and provide relevant data from the in-sandout trial to illustrate the product’s effectiveness.
What is Sand Impaction?
Sand impaction (or sand colic) occurs when a horse ingests sand while eating grass, hay or other feed products. If a horse consumes sand, it can cause problems in the gastrointestinal tract and abdomen, including impaction, a serious condition that can cause pain, discomfort, and even death.
Impaction is a common cause of colic, and a horse with sand impaction will likely display the same signs as a colicky horse. For example, not passing manure, kicking at the abdomen, rolling and pawing.
Sand enteropathy is a condition caused by the accumulation of sand in the large colon. Sand is swallowed when horses or foals are kept on sandy pastures or are fed hay or grain in a sandy area (paddock, stall or pasture). The accumulated sand inflames and irritates the colon wall. Consumption of large amounts of sand, which then collects in the large intestine, can produce diarrhea, weight loss or colic.
How does in-sandout work?
The use of psyllium husk and magnesium sulphate is well established as a protocol for the treatment of sand impactions in horses. Several studies exist showing that this is an effective treatment for sand enteropathy.
Psyllium husk are used as a sand accumulation management tool that is used in feed. Some horses are resistant to the taste and texture of too much psyllium; therefore, combining the psyllium husk and magnesium sulphate in an easy to feed palatable pellet is the perfect option.
Psyllium absorbs liquids from the intestines and swells as it moves through the digestive tract, helping eject the sand from the GIT tract. The purely mechanical action of psyllium mucilage is to absorb excess water while stimulating normal bowel elimination.
Magnesium sulphate (Epsom salts) is the laxative most often used in the treatment of impactions. Its osmotic action results in the hydration of the impacted mass in the intestinal lumen.
Materials and Methods
The trial results below are from nine horses known to have previous issues with sand impactions. The trial lasted five days.
On day 0 of the trial, all horses had their abdomens radiographed for sand, and a “faecal sand test” was performed. The radiographs and sand tests
were assessed by a veterinarian and graded from (0-4). The initial results were noted for each horse, and horses were broken into groups A and B.
Group Data
Group A was fed 0.6kg in-sandout equivalent for a 500 kg horse once daily, and Group B was Fed 0.3kg in-sandout equivalent for a 500 kg horse once daily.
Day 1-5: Fed in-sandout in the morning to trial horses, observations taken by owners
Day 6: All horses had their abdomens radiographed for sand, and a “faecal sand test” was performed.
These results were analysed versus the results of day 0. All owners filled out a questionnaire regarding their experience with feeding in-sandout and their observations.
A total of 17 horses were presented to West Coast Veterinary Clinic to participate in the in-sandout trial. Eight horses were excluded from the trial. The excluded horses showed no detectable sand within the large colon. Of the remaining horses, nine were split randomly into Groups A and B (see previous group descriptions).
The amount of sand present within the large colon of each was classed as follows:
The horses in Group A ranged from mild to severe sand burdens. Three out of four horses ate the product.
The horses in Group B ranged from mild to moderate sand burdens. All horses in this group ate the product.
All horses that presented for assessment underwent a faecal sand test. Results of the tests were mixed with some horses with severe sand burdens having no sand in their faeces, whilst others with trace or no sand having sand present in their faeces. This suggests that faecal sand testing may be an unreliable indicator for sand enteropathy in horses.
However, the above final assessments do show a reduction in sand present within the large colons of all horses that were fed in-sandout
This trial demonstrates that in-sandout is a reliable solution for sand accumulation management. The product’s combination of psyllium husk and magnesium sulphate is likely to promote the effective removal of sand from the large colon.
Several horses with severe or moderate sand burdens cleared most or all of their sand build-up after being on a 5-day course of the product. That said, in-sandout may be the perfect product for managing your horse’s sand burden.
NB: Prior to feeding in-sandout ensure the horses bowel movements are regular. Do not feed if impaction/intestinal blockage is already present seek veterinary advice.
Bendemeer C/D, 11-12 (D/A) Mount Barker C/D, 25-26 (DA) Dorrigo Show Indoor C/D.
www.australiancarriagedrivingsocietyvic.org.au - www.carriagedrivingnsw.org.au - www.acdsqueenslandbranch.com
NSW: 4 Mini Training CDE @ Bundanoon, Southern Highlands Club – Ph: Yvonne Wood 0497 603 424
12 Oz Tr ec/ Activity Day@ Rossmore, Hills Club – Ph: Jan Muspratt 02 9606 6085
18-19 Double Qualifier @ Carbery Estate Mullengandra, Border Club – Ph: Miriam Bentley 0427 204 205
26 Dressage & Cones @ Hawkesbury Showground, Hawkesbury Club – Ph: Jenny Conquest 0427 708 619
VIC: 4-5 P rom Coast Level 3 CDE @ Mornington, Yanakie – e: Tracey Tuohy – traceytouhy@bigpond.com
11-12 Annual GDDQ, Eastern Vic, Maffra Showgrounds - e: Cheryl Dowling – catara23@froggy.com.au
17 GDDQ, Geelong, Leighdale – e: Zander Mcguire – gdcd.entries@gmail.com
18-19 Level 3 CDE, Geelong, Leighdale – e: Julie Madden – gdcd.entries@gmail.com
Cut ting National Cutting Horse Association – Ph: 02 6765 9356– www.ncha.com.au
19 West G ippsland@ Trafalgar, Vic – Ph: Julie Powell – 0407 855 465
23-26 Alpine Cutting, Myrtleford, Vic – Ph: Kathleen Philips – 0458 484 328
24-26 Dar ling Downs Cutting Club. Dalby, Qld – Ph: Nadean MCKenna – 0428 777 034 www.nsw.equestrian.org.au – www.qld.equestrian.org.au– www.vic.equestrian.org.au
3-5 Alexander Park Dressage Cl, OC/CR, P-FEI/YH, Salt Ash, NSW – Ph: Wendy 0419 873 321 – www.alexanderparkdressageclub.org
4-5 Dressage Qld Riders Series, Young Horse & Competitive, QSEC, Caboolture Qld – Ph: Kristy Bassista 0416 028 575
4-5 Young Dressage, OC, Pr-GP, Bendick Murrell, NSW – Ph: Megan Bryant 0429 831 427 – www.youngdressage.com
4-5 Dressage Vic, Young Riders Squad, WPNEC, Werribee, Vic – Ph: 03 9013 0707
5 Valley Equestrian Club, TShirt Hack Show, Kempsey, NSW – www.valleyequestrianclub.net
10-12 DNSW –TBC, OC/YH, P-GP/YH, Clarendon, NSW – www.dressagensw.com.au
10-12 SHCV, BARASTOC, Horse of the Year, WPNEC, Werribee, Vic – Ph: Deena Peters – 03 9908 3707
12 ASP R, Pony Dressage, WPNEC, Werribee, Vic – Ph: 03 9741 7672 – www.wpnec.com.au
17 Shirley Heights Inc, 4 Day Horse Festival, Day 2 Official Dresage Jackpot, Gladysdale, Vic – Ph: Karen 0407 411 307 18 Toowoomba Dressage, Members Dressage Event, TEA Grounds - Ph: Equestrian Qld 07 3891 6611 18-19 SHCVic 2023 - NV & BD Battle of the Borders (GN Qualifier), Albury/Wodonga Equestrian Centre, Thurgoona, NSW Ph: Jody 0413 801 665
19 CWDG, Club Championships & Leaderboard Presentation, Sh/gr, Blaney, NSW - Ph: Jane 0447 690 990 - www.cwdg.com.au
22-26 Willinga Park CDN, OC/YH, CDI 3*, Bawley Point, NSW – Ph: Cathie Drury-Klein 0417 224 432 – www.willingapark.com.au www.qld.equestrian.org.au – www.vic.equestrian.org.au – www.nsw.equestrian.org.au – www.eventingnsw.equestrian.org.au
1-4 GDP Classic, Jumping Vic, Boneo Park Eq Ctr, Boneo, Vic – Ph: 03 5986 3006
2-5 Eventing Victoria, Pop up 3 DAY, WPNEC, Werribee, Vic – Ph: 03 9013 0707 EXT 109 – www.wpnec.com.au
2-5 GDP Show Jumping, Boneo Park Eq/ctr, Boneo, Vic – Ph: 03 5986 3006 – www.boneopark.com.au
4-5 Valley & Rivers Showjumping Club, Showground, Grafton, NSW – Ph: 0419 532 094
4-5 Sale Showjumping Club, Sale, Vic – Ph: Samantha 0425 864 500 – www.saleshowjumpingclub.com
11-12 Mar cus Oldham Geelong Horse Trials, Iverleigh, Vic – Ph: Equestrian Vic 03 9013 0707
12
Toowoomba Jump Club, Sh/gr, Toowoomba, QLD - Ph: Kathy Humphrey 0407 132 281
18-19 NVS JC, Summer Show, Shepparton, Vic – Ph: Equestrian Vic 03 9013 0707
18-19 Tamborine Equestrian Group, International One Day Event, Tamborine, Qld Ph: Equestrian Qld 07 3891 6611
19 CWDG, Club Championships & Leaderboard Presentation, Sh/gr, Blaney, NSW - Ph: Jane 0447 690 990 - www.cwdg.com.au
23-26 NNW SJC Indoor Championships, AELEC, Tamworth, NSW – Ph: AELEC 02 6767 5658
25-26
25-26
Boneo Monthly Jumping, Boneo Park Eq/ctr, Boneo, Vic – Ph: 03 5986 3006
Shipwreck Coast Showjumping & Equestrian Event, Sh/gr, Warnambool, Vic – Ph: Equestrian Vic 03 9013 0707
Mel F leming Horsemanship – Ph: Mel 0428 385 745 – www.melfleming.com.au
10-12 Int ermediate Course, Macksville, NSW
www.australianpolo.com.au – www.queenslandpolo.com.au – www.nswpolo.com.au – www.vicpolo.com.au
Ph: 0 459 272 277 Ph: 0407 677 423 Ph: 0409 764 607 e: secretary@vicpolo.com.au
485
11-12 Sale Polocrosse Tournamet @Fulham, Vic, 18-19 Corio (Ballarat Grounds) multi horse, Mitchell Park Vic, 25-26 Goulburn Valley GV Equestrian Centre Elmore Vic
www.reiningaustralia - 07 5429 8797 – 0412 479 340
6-11 2023 Hi Form Victorian State Championship Derby Show, Equestrian Centre, Tatura Vic – Ph: 0400 424 209 - www.vrha.com.au
4-5 SQRHA, Ribbon Show Summer Rein Gatton – Ph: Chris 0407 856 766 - www.sqrha.com.au
25 SNSWRHA Qualifier, Twilight Show – WEB www.snswrha.com.au
2-5 WDQ HA Sun & Surf, WPNEC, Werribee, Vic – Ph; & WEB -P h: 0417 391 936 - www.wdqha.com
11 Nat ional Buckskin Society & Dilutes Inc, Barastoc Hoty A Class Show, WPNEC, Werribee, Vic – Ph: 03 9741 7672 - www.nbs.org.au
11 Vic Riding Pony Summer Festival, WPNEC, Werribee, Vic – Ph: 02 4577 5530 - www.rpsbs.com.au
15-18 The A MHA 2023 Australian Championships, AELEC, Tamworth, NSW – Ph: 0416 551 080 - www.amha.com.au
15-19 Aus tralian National Arabian Championships, SIEC, Horsley Park, NSW – Ph: 02 4577 5366 – www.ahsa.asn.au
17 The 3 5th East Coast 2023 Arabian Championships, SIEC, Horsley Park, NSW – Ph: Sam Woods 0409 003 069 - www.ahsa.asn.au
25-26 Aus tralian Heavy Horse Spectacular, SIEC, Horsley Park, NSW – Ph: 0401 476 194 www.facebook.com/people/Australian-Heavy-Horse-Spectacular/100087624036684
4-5 Tooraweenah Team Roping, The Falls Australia Day Jackpot – Ph: 0428 425 378
25-26 Thornhill Team Roping, Jackpot – Ph: 0428 425 378 – ATRA 0488 471 069 – www.teamroper.com.au
18-19 Richmond River Trail Horse Riders Club Inc – February Camp @ Pagan’s Flat Ph: Susan 0417 658 921 - www.facebook.com/RRTHRC
5-6 CAMDEN HOTY, SIEC, Horsley Park, NSW - Ph: 02 8883 6900
Australian Barrel Horse Association – Ph: Suzie Dicks 0413 682 484 – www.abha.com.au
NSW: 26 Li verpool Plains Barrel Racing - Divisional, Rodeo Arena, Quirindi, NSW
ABCRA – Ph: 02 6766 5863 - www.abcra.com.au
2-5 (DA) Barraba Show Campdraft,
3-5 (DA) Oberon Campdraft
9-12 Quirindi Quart Pot Stockman’s Challenge
10-12 (DA)Southern Forests Campdraft
10-12 (DA) Wingen Campdraft
11 Nut rien Masters Sale & Campdraft, Willinga Park, NSW. Ph: Mark Barton 0419 488 256 - www.nutrienequine.com.au
31-2 April ( DA) Gwydir River Run Inc Stockmans Challenge.
www.australiancarriagedrivingsocietyvic.org.au - www.carriagedrivingnsw.org.au - www.acdsqueenslandbranch.com
NSW 4-5 Anne Synnot Cup, Marrar, Hill Tops Cl - Ph: Tess Smith 0414 961 801
12 Sports Day, Rossmore, NSW, Hills Club- Ph: Jan Muspratd Club - Ph: Rachel Hat - 02 9606 6085
15-19 Annual Ladies Drive, Spring Ridge, Liverpool Cl - Ph: Vicki Donneiiy 0458 473 771
18-19 L3 CDE, Joe Hawkins Cup, Marrar, Riverina Cl, Wagga Wagga, NSW - Ph: Mal Walsh 0459 903 760
25-26 Double Graded Dressage Qualifier, Murrambidgee Cl - Ph: Robyn Schmetzer 0458 552 331
VIC; 4-5 Graded Driven Dressage Qualifier, Central Highlands, Huntly, Vic - Ph: Hillary Billett 0419 104 583
11-12 Skye Park Australian Carriage Driving Classic - L2 CDE, Longwood cl, Longwood - Ph: Rachel Haslau 0439 958 56
18-19 VIC CDE Championships, Greenvale, Oaklands Club - Ph: Peter Lee 0418 361096
25-26 Show Driving Dressage Championships, Royal Geelong, Geelong, Vic - Ph: Zander 0422 362 176
Nat ional Cutting Horse Association – Ph: 02 6765 9356 – www.ncha.com.au
11-18 NAT IONAL FINALS, AELEC, Tamworth, NSW, Contact as above
17-19 Cot ton Country Cutting Club, Goondiwindi, Qld - Ph Nicki Doolan 0428 712 652
31-2 April Sou thern Qld CHA - Chinchila, QLD. www.nsw.equestrian.org.au – www.qld.equestrian.org.au– www.vic.equestrian.org.au
3-5 Toowoomba Dressage, Star Championships - Competitive, TE A Gr ounds, Qld - Ph: Equestrian Qld 07 3891 6611
4-5 Hygain Dressage Vic, Young Rider Squads& Development Program, WPNEC, Werribee, Vic – Ph: 03 9741 7672
4-5 Elm ore Equestrian Cl, Event, Elmore, Vic – Ph: 03 5432 6176
5 EQ CUP & Hack Show, Park Ridge Pony Cl Gr ounds , Qld - Ph: SHCQ 07 3891 6611
5 Manning Valley Dressage, OC/CU/YH, Pr-GP, Taree, NSW - Ph: Helen Zimic 02 6553 9506 - www.mvdressage.com
5 REA Wagga Wagga Dressage, OC/CU/CR, PrAdv, Wagga Wagga, NSW - Ph: Maryann Schiller 0428 632 494 - www.reaclubs.com.au
10-12
11-12
DNSW-TBC, OC/YH, Pr-GP, Clarendon, NSW - www.dressagensw.com.au
Boneo Park Autumn Dressage, Equestrian Centre, Boneo, Vic – Ph: 03 5986 3006 – www.boneopark.com.au
11-12 Cen tral Coast Dressage, OC/CR, GP/YH, Mangrove Mountain, NSW - Ph: Karma Wilson 0478 070 176 - www.dressage.org
12 Caboolture Dressage, QSEC, Caboolture, Qld – www.caboolturedressage.org.au
12 Cooloola Dressage Assoc, Gympie, Qld – Ph: Judith 0419 768 597 – www.coolooladressage.org.au
12
18
18
18-19
19
19
19
23-25
24
24-26
25
26
26
26
26
Equestrian Gold Coast, Worongary, Qld – Ph: Nicole 0412 156 206
WVDC, Official Dressage Club Inc, Official Dressage, Lara, Vic – Ph: Adam 0477 025 119
Goulburn Dressage Club, TBC, Pr-GP, Goulburn, NSW - Ph: Iris Greer 0459 622 505 - www.goulburndressageclub.weebly.com
Wimmera Equestrian Cl, 2023 Country Classic, Dimboola, Vic – Ph: Mel 0400 792 111
Hun ter Valley Dressage Club, OC/CR, Pr-GP, Salt Ash, NSW - Ph: Amy Giles 0498 627 767 www.huntervalleydressageclub.weebly.com
Shoalhaven Dressage, OC/CU, Pr-GP, Worrigee, NSW - Ph: Alycia Targa 0401 901 013 - www.shoalhavendressageclub.com.au
Redlands & Southern Dist Equestrian Group, Thornlands, Qld – www.rasdeg.org.au
DJY TS, DRESSAGE & JUMPING WITH THE STARS, OC, YH, Werribee, Vic - Ph: Amy 03 9013 0707 - www.dwts.org.au
QLD Dressage Riders Series, QSEC, Caboolture, Qld - www.caboolturedressage.org.au
2023 Leader Equine Farmworld Equestrian Festival, Lander Park, Warragul, Vic – Ph: 0400 917 037 – www.carltonperformancehorses.com.au
Sugarloaf, OC, Pr-GP, SIEC, Horsley Park, NSW - Ph: Joanne Squires 0427 114 195 - www.sec-dressage.com
Cen tral West Dressage Gp, OC/CU, P-GP, Blayney, NSW - Ph: Beth Meclean 0419264 629 - www.centralwestdressage.com
Jindera Equestrian Club, OC, Pr-GP , Albury, NSW - Ph: Kerrie Wise 0407 207 392 - www.jindera.weebly.com
Singleton DC, OC/CR, Pr-GP, Singleton, NSW - Ph: Dimity Lourey 0426 824 443 - www.singletondressage.org
TVEG, T Shirt Dressage - Participant & Club, Showgrounds, Murwillumbah, NSW - E: angelaberesford01@gmail.com - www.tveg.org.au
- e: info@tonimbukhorsetrials.com.au
11-12 Sydney EVENTING, SIEC, Horsley Park, Sydney, NSW - Ph: Rosemary Allen 02 8883 6900 - www.sydneysieceventing.org.au
17-19 TIE Tamworth, AELEC, Tamworth, NSW – Ph: 02 6767 5658
17-19 Wandin Park International HT, Eventing Vic, WPNEC, Werribee, Vic – Ph: 03 9013 0707
17-19 RM Equestrian ODE, Hodgsonvale, Qld – Ph:: Jo Williams 0412 790 417
17-19 Canberra Eventing, Equestrian Centre, Canberra , ACT– Ph: evic 03 9013 0707
23-25 PSI Dressage & Jumping with the Stars, WPNEC, Werribee, Vic - Ph: EVIC 03 9013 0707
25-26 Tin tern (at Gladysdale), Eventing, Gladysdale, Vic – Ph: EV 03 9013 0707
Mel F leming Horsemanship – Ph: Mel 0428 385 745 – www.melfleming.com.au
4-19 Con fidence course, “Alchemy Place”, Moonbi, NSW.
22-24 Connecting and Fundamental Feel, Banyandah, Howlong, NSW
25-27 Liberty - Banyandah, Howlong, NSW
28-30 Riding with Synchronicity, Banyandah, Howlong, NSW
www.australianpolo.com.au – www.queenslandpolo.com.au – www.nswpolo.com.au – www.vicpolo.com.au
Ph: 0 459 272 277 Ph: 0407 677 423 Ph: 0409 764 607 e: secretary@vicpolo.com.au
VIC: Wednesday Night Chukkas 1st 8th, ,15th 22nd & 29th, WPNEC, Werribee, Vic, 1–5 Melbourne City Polo, Rescheduled- Melb Cup – TBC,
11-12 Fultons Lane Polo Cl- Polo Invitational, 11-12 Melbourne City Polo Club CUP, 18-19 Melbourne City Polo Club Cup,
25-26 WPNEC Cup, 25-26 Dunleld Cup 2023
NSW: 4-5 K illarney Autumn 0pener, 4-5 Ashton Cup 8g Goulburn, 11-12 Windsor, 11-12 Ellerston, 18-19 Windsor, 18-19 Ellerston, 24-26 Arunga, 25-26 Garangula.
www.nswpolocrosse.com.au – Ph: 0407 207 649 – www.polocrossevic.org.au – Ph: 0419 039 485
NSW: 4-5 PANSW State Coaching Clinic,11-12 Burradoo, 18-19 Upper Hunter Show, 18-19 Lake George, 18-19 Coffs Harbour, 25-26 Hall, 25-26 The Swan Cup 2023, Inverell Grounds,160 Eddy Park Lane, Rob Roy. 10 km’s West of Inverell – Ph: Alex Wrobel – 0438 799 501
VIC: 4-5 Moorooduc @ Moorooduc, 11-12 Casterton @ Casterton, 18-19 Ballarat @ Mitchell Park, 25-26 Ballan @ Mitchell Park.
www.ponyclubqld.com.au – www.ponyclubvic.org.au – www.pcansw.org.au
Ph: 07 3216 1255 Ph: 03 8685 8925 Ph: 02 4229 8977
QLD: 19 Mudgeeraba, Formal Gymkhana, 25 Tamborine, Open Cross Country, 26 Cedar Creek, Formal event.
www.reiningaustralia.com.au - 07 5429 8797 – 0412 479 340
3-5 SQRHA, Slide N Spin, Indoor Eq/ctr, Gatton, QLD – Ph: Chris Wales0407 856 786 – www.sqrha.com.au
18-19 QRH A Qualifying Show @ Clinic, QSEC, Caboolture, Qld
31-9 April 2023 Australian Reiners & Breeders Classic, Equestrian Centre, Dalby, QLD – Ph: Errol 0417 617 461 www.arbc.net.au
7 – 12 NSW S tate Quarter Horse Championships 2023, K Ranch, Mount Hunter,– Ph: Joanne 0437 703 353 – www.aqha.com.au
10-12 2023 SPPHA NSW State Championships, Paceway Tamworth, NSW – www.standedbred.org.au
15-19 Aus tralian Arabian National Championships, SIEC, Horsley Park, NSW – Ph: Sam Woods 0490 003 069
17-19 2023 East Coast Arabian Championships, SIEC, Horsley Park, NSW- www.ahsa.asn.au
18-19 2023 Darling Downs Heavy Horse Festival, Showgrounds, Allora, QLD – Ph: Clare 0438 160 588 – www.heavyhorsefestival.com.au
30-9 April Q23 National Championship Show, AELEC, Tamworth, NSW – Ph: 02 6762 6444 – www.aqha.com.au
31-3 April 4th A nnual Petcover Rare & Distinctive Breeds Festival, Eq/Centre, Burpengary, QLD www.qld.equestrian.org.au
Aus tralasion Team Roping Association – Ph: Jennifer 0401 767 542 – www.teamroper.com.au
4-5
Tooraweenah Jackpot, 11-12 Ayres, 19 Thornhill Jackpot, 25-26 Mount Isa ATRA, 31 Destiny Downs CHBHA #10 Slide Roping.
Four Winds Reiki, e: julie@fourwindsreiki.com.au – www.fourwindsreiki.com.au
6-10 Shoden & Equine Reiki: Foundation Training (Equine Reiki Level 1), Bucca- Wauka, NSW
27-30 Okuden & Equine Reiki: Advanced Techniques (Equine Reiki Level 2), Bucca-Wauka, NSW
Bushmans Carnival, 1-2 (DA) Williams Campdraft Cl C/D, 8-9 Munginup C/D,14-16 (DA) Curlewis C/D, 14-16 (DA) Molong C/D, 14-16 (DA) Murrundi C/D, 21-24 (DA) Bob Trickett Memorial C/D, 21-23 (DA) Baryulgil Fin Flower C/D, 21-23 (DA) Cudal C/D, 21-23 (DA) Killara Charity C/D, 28-30 (DA) Bundarra Lions Club C/D, 28-30 (DA), Merriwa Autumn C/D, 28- 30 (DA) Yarrowitch Jackpot C/D, www.australiancarriagedrivingsocietyvic.org.au - www.carriagedrivingnsw.org.au - www.acdsqueenslandbranch.com
8-10 NAT IONAL CDE CHAMPIONSHIPS, sh/gr Boorowa, NSW – Ph: Brendon Dwyer – 0407 838 700
6-17 Sydney Royal Easter Show, Carriage Driving Events
15-16 L3 CDE Event, Moonbi Reserve, Moonbi, NSW – Ph: Liz O’Brien 0427 766 726
Nat ional Cutting Horse Association – Ph: 02 6765 9356 – www.ncha.com.au
16 West G ippsland QHA, Garfield North, Vic – Ph; Julie Powell 0407 855 465
21-23 Sou thern Qld CHA, Roma, Qld – Ph: Ray Cooper 0402 380 407
www.nsw.equestrian.org.au – www.qld.equestrian.org.au– www.vic.equestrian.org.au
1-2 Gra fton Dressage Club, OC/CU, Pr-GP/CU Grafton, NSW – Ph: Sonia George 0431 796 768 – www.graftonridingclub.org
1-2 Equestrian Vaulting Australia, SVG Competition Heritage Horse Park, Balladiar, NSW – Ph: 0412 240 397
4-8 Show horse Council of Australisia Inc, HUFGLOCKEN Grand National Saddle Horse & Rider Championships, SIEC, Horsley Park, NSW
10 Equestrian NSW Interschools- Vaulting, SIEC, Horsley Park, NSW- Ph: 0412 240 397 – www.svg.org.au
14-16 Car lton Performance Dressage Spectacular, EQ/Ctre, Boneo, Vic – www.boneopark.com.au
14-16 Young Dressage Assoc Inc, CHAMPIONSHIPS, Bendick Murrell, NSW – Ph: Megan Bryant 0429 831 427 – www.youngdressage,com
15-19 EOI – 2023 Equestrian Victoria Interschool State Championships & 2023 Australian Interschool Championships, WPNEC, Werribee, Vic,
16-17 Armidale NEGS, Faccifern Competition, Ph: 0412 240 397 – www.svg.org.au
16 T V E G, *EQ Leaderboard Event. Sh/gr, Murwillumbah, NSW – E: secretary@tveg.org.au – www.tveg.org.au
7 Quirindi CC1 Ev60-L- CC12* & CCI4*, Quirindi, NSW – www.facebook.com/vickiburgess
13-14 Toowoomba CCN, Showgrounds, Toowoomba, Qld – www.qld.equestrian.org.au
26-29 Mit avite FEI World Cup Showjumping, Larapinta Equestrian, Larapinta, Qld – Ph: 0404 983 333 – www.larapintaequestrian.com.au
28 Albury CCN Ev60 – CCN2*-S – Ph: 0427 540 467 - www.awec.net.au
28 Friends of Woady, Ev80 – CCN3*-S - www.vic.equestrian.org.au
29-1 May VIC TORIAN JUMPING STATE TITLES 2023, WPNEC, Werribee, Vic – Ph: Emily Van Sonsbee- MPIO – Ph: 03 9013 0707 ext 10
7-10 Eas ter Retreat – “Alchemy Place” Moonbi, NSW Mel Fleming Horsemanship – Ph: Mel 0428 385 745 – www.melfleming.com.au
20-24 Int ermediate Course, Banyandah, Howlong, NSW Mel Fleming Horsemanship – Ph: Mel 0428 385 745 – www.melfleming.com.au www.australianpolo.com.au – www.queenslandpolo.com.au – www.nswpolo.com.au – www.vicpolo.com.au
NSW:
Ph: 0 459 272 277 Ph: 0407 677 423 Ph: 0409 764 607 e: secretary@vicpolo.com.au
1-2 A runga, Subz, 7-8 Mudgee, 8-9 The Countess of Dudley Cup/Killarney Autumn, 8-9 Womens League for Test, 9 Int ernational Polo Test Mens/Womens Game, 15-16 Millamolong, 15-16 Countess of Dudley Cup/Windsor Autumn, 22-23 Forbes, 22-23 Kurri Burri, Subz, 22-23 Scone, 22-23 Bob Skene League, 29-30 Gundalong, 29-30 Windsor Annual Subz, NSW Jnr Championships.
VIC: 1-2 Eynesbuty Polo Club @ Mt William, 8-9 Yarra Valley Polo Club, Closing Tournament
VIC: 1-2 Trafalgar Polocrosse Tournament.
7-9 AUSTRALIAN CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS @ WERRIBEE PARK - www.polocrossevic.org.au – Ph: 0419 039 485.
15-19 VICTORIAN STATE POLOCROSSE CHAMPIONSHIPS – Hosted by Sale Polocrosse Club @ Fulham, Vic.
NSW: 1-2 Guyra, Sydney & Tumberumba, 15-16 Sydney RAS Subbies, 15-16 Yass @ Hall, 15-16 Walcha, 29-30 Muswellbroook & Braidwood., 22-23 Albury Jnr Coaching Silver-Spur - www.polocrossevic.org.au – Ph: 0419 039 485
www.reiningaustralia - 07 5429 8797 – 0412 479 340
7-9 Tamworth RHA Easter Qualifier how White Park, Scone, NSW – Ph: 0428 693 335
2-9 ARBC Derby Show, Dalby, Qld – Ph: 0417 617 461 – https://arbc.net.au
28-30 RVR Clinic & Qualifier Show @ Tatura, Vic - www.reiningaustralia
14-21 Paint Horse Assoc of Australia National Championships Ph: 02 6884 5513 – www.painthorse.net.au
26-29 IMHR 2023 Grand Nationals, AELEC, Tamworth, NSW – Ph:0467 712 338 – www.imhr.com.au
29-30 Gat ton Heavy Horse Field Days – Gatton Showground www.gattonheavyhorses.com.au
3 Open “Connection with Horses”, groundwork sessions, Glen Burnie, 377 Houghahans Crk Rd, Teven, NSW Ph: Suzy Maloney - 0401 249 263 24 Open “Connection with Horses”, Venue & contact as above. https://events.humanitix.com/tours/connection-with-horses
This 3 day event is a weekend jam packed with all things equine with loads to see.
We not only have these amazing rare and speciality breeds doing their led and ridden routines but also competing across various disciplines in beginner to seasoned suitable events.
On the Friday we have our Harness, Classical Dressage & 3 Phase Hunter. Saturday is our Youngstock Spectacular, Led Breed classes, Led Fun Ring, Costume & Western. Sunday is our Ridden Breed classes & Ridden Fun Ring.
This event is free to spectators to come watch and meet these amazing breeds while they show off what they do best!
Program out now.
Entries Close 28/02/2023
• Consistently throws great temperament and easy to train horses
• Crosses with any breed to improve the temperament of the mare’s progeny
• Homozygous Black so cannot throw a chestnut foal
• Progeny have won at State and National levels in Stockhorse Shows, Polo-X, Pony club, and also excelling at dressage, eventing, led classes, jumping, working equitation and campdrafting
• Dual Registered –ASH Rego # C2-152985 AQHA Rego # FS-25572
NSW – (02) 9879 677
3-4 Berry, 3-4 Rydal, 4 Uralla, 4 Nimmitabel, 10-12 Glen Innes, 17-18 Kangaroo Valley, 17-18 Gulgong, 17-19 Maitland, 18-19 Ashford, 19 Gunning, 24-26 CANBERRA ROYAL, 24-26 Inverell, 25 Binnaway, 25 Rylstone-Kandos, 26 Sofala.
QLD – (07) 3277 7747
3-5 Stanthorpe, 10-11 Allora, 17-19 Clifton, 34-25 Killarney, 25 Cooyar.
VIC - (03) – 5441 5555
4 Yarra Glen, 11 Korumburra, 11 Tyrendarra, 24-25 Rochester, 25 Foster & District, 25-26 Berwick & District.
NSW – (02) 9879 6777
3-4 Boorowa, 3-5 Barraba, 3-4 Armidale- New England, 3-5 Goulburn, 3-5 Mudgee, 3-5 Tamworth, 3-4 Milton, 3-5 Newcastle, 4 Braidwood, 4 Delegate, 4-5 Comboyne, 4-6 Deniliquin, 4-5 Luddenham, 4 Tumut, 5 Dalgety, 5 Koorawatha, 5 Tarago, 10-11 Coonabarabran, 10-11 Gresford, 10-11 Robertson, 10-12 Manilla, 10-11 Walcha,10-11 Wakool, 11 Adelong, 11-12 Blacktown City, 11 Blayney, 11 Cooma, 11-12 Taralga, 11 Wallamba (Nabiac), 12 Bemboka, 17-18 Lithgow, 17-19 Wingham, 17-19 Moss Vale, 17-19 Upper Hunter, 18-19 Castle Hill, 18 Baradine, 18 Bombala, 18 Cumnock, 18 Tumbarumba, 18 Yass, 19 Holbrook, 24-25 Camden, 24-25 Gloucester, 24 Batlow, Mendooran.
QLD – (07) 3277 7747 4 Dirranbandi, 4-5 Bell, 4-5 Millmerran, 10-11 Pittsworth, 10-11 Proston, 11 Tara, 17-18 Inglewood, 17-18 Murgon, 18 Oakey, 18 Tamborine Mountain, 24-25 Goomeri, 24-26 Warwick, 25 Jandowae, 30-1 RASQ (TOOWOOMBA).
VIC (03) 5441 5555
3-5 Deniliquin, 3-5 Warragul & West Gippsland, 4 Heytesbury, 7-8 Wimmera Machinery Field Days, 10-11 Wakool & District, 11 Tallangatta, 11-12 Mighty Mitta Muster, 12 Bellarine, 13 Orbost, 17-18 Cohuna, 18 Apollo Bay /Otway District, 18 Pakenham & District, 18 Wodonga, 23-26 Farm World-Larder Park, 25 Natimuk A & P Society, 25-26 Mildura Horse Complex, 26 Bunyip & District.
APRIL
NSW– (02) 9879 6777
10 Jerrawa, 14-15 Wauchope, 18-19 Kempsey, 21-22 Bonalbo, 21-22 Macksville, 21-22 Moree, 21-22 Stroud, 22-23 Central Coast Regional Show (Gosford), 25-26 Maclean, 28-29 Grafton, 28-30 Hawkesbury, 28-29 Gilgandra, 28-30 Gunnedah.
QLD – (07) 3277 7747
8 Gayndah, 14-15 Wandoan, 14-15 Dalby, 15 Nanango, 15 Mt Perry, 21-23 Monto, 22 Marlborough, 22 Goombungee-Harden, 28-29 Goondiwindi, 29 Tambo, 29 The Caves, 30 Eidsvold, 23 Rocklea, 30 St George.
VIC – (03) 5441 5555
21-22 East Gippsland Field Days.
www.agshowsnsw.org.au
www.queenslandshows.com.au
www.vicagshows.com.au
The design creates Power Steering and Brakes for strong horses. Very kind in the mouth and relaxes them. Lowers the horse’s head, creating a smooth, flowing, winning action. Can stop climbing, head tossing, pulling, leaning and time faults, making the difference of winning. Award-Winning Bit. Horses, trainers, coaches, and riders love them, stating: “It’s a Game Changer”, “Brilliant”, “Amazing Transformation”.
Check out our EP design for tongue over the bit, breathing & displacement issues.
So, you may be learning more about your horses hooves and common hoof problems or perhaps you’ve never really paid attention?
Until now - when we are all dealing with the aftermath of the extreme weather conditions of the last couple of years.
Droughts, fires, floods and mud – they all take their toll. Hoof problems don’t just occur in extreme wet weather although this is when most owners realise that horses hooves do not stand up to constant wet and mud well.
There is a flurry of activity at the barn, in the stables and under carports around Australia as owners desperately try to deal with the wet conditions. Most are out there doing their best to attend to hooves to either address current problems or try to prevent bacteria and fungi entering the hooves and having a “hoof funk party”. Well kept and nutritionally strong hooves will be more robust and able to ward off infection and correction than a more neglected or nutritionally weak hoof.
One of the common problems that will occur after you’ve wiped your brow and let out a few “phew, can’t believe we are coming out the other side of that” is Seedy Toe.
Seedy Toe is the invasion of the white line of the hoof by fungi or bacteria or a combination of both. Opportunistic, these microorganisms will find a distortion in the laminar connection and can create the infection known as Seedy Toe. This infection has ability to eat away at more than 1cm up inside the hoof wall every 4 weeks. So, if you are on a 6 week cycle, that could potentially be up to 2cm of invasion in between trims.
Initially it will appear as a small black line in the white line of the hoof. (fig 1). Generally, it will be located between “10 to 2” in the front of the hoof. In the very early stages of seedy toe, it may be difficult to detect by the owner, however, should be easily detected by your hoof care professional when rasping the hoof. Detection at this early stage is ideal and integral to ensure you aren’t going to have to deal with a bigger problem further down the track.
Is seedy toe driving you nuts? Are your horse’s hooves damaged and abcess prone from all the wet weather?
Healthy, strong hooves and thick soles can be grown by feeding the Aussie Farrier Hoof Growth supplementa quality pellet with all the nutrients required for hoof health
Often, all the initial stages of Seedy toe requires is a quick “nick” of the knife and the pathogens are removed. (fig 2) If these pathogens remain in the hoof, they thrive on an anerobic environment and will start to feast on hoof within the laminar connection.
Good communication with your hoof care provider is vital. They should be engaging you in their findings and ideally you are at the appointment with them to discuss any issues. Taking an active role in being present and learning what your hoof professional is seeing is a great way to learn and become more confident in handling hoof problems should they occur. However, not all hoof care providers will recognise or address Seedy Toe in the early stages which is a concern. If these small pathological changes aren’t addressed early on, then your horses hooves will start to show you the signs.
To order or find your nearest stockist: www.aussiefarrier.com.au
To order or find your nearest stockist: www.aussiefarrier.com.au
sales@aussiefarrier.com
sales@aussiefarrier.com
Small toe crack. A hoof care professional that is familiar with and at war with Seedy Toe will spot this a mile away and can alert you to a problem more often than not without even touching the hoof. If your horse displays a small black toe crack or line, then this is a sign to investigate further asap.
(Fig 3.) As you can see, this horse has just been had his hooves trimmed. However, there is a problem lurking that has not been attended to. Learn to train your eye and investigate.
If the hoof now displays more than a small black line to one that is starting to crack and have a hole or “defect” at the toe, again this is a tell tale sign that Seedy Toe is present and would now require a “resection.
Fig 4 – another recently trimmed hoof with an obvious defect harbouring seedy toe. The owner was unware this is a problem as it has not been mentioned at the recent trim appointment.
A resection of the hoof is an open cut by a qualified Hoof Care professional to expose and remove the pathogens within the hoof wall. This is obviously now a problem that needs to be managed by the owner in between professional visits.
Fig 8. Final stages of a Seedy Toe resection. You can see where the black line travels vertically eating its way up through the laminar. As hoof care professionals, it is ideal to try and “chase” all the black line until clear. This is not always possible in the one trim for various reasons but ideally it doesn’t get to the stage where it isn’t.
Seedy Toe occurs when the hoof wall connection with the sole is compromised. The loss of this connection or a deviation from outside force allows for debris (dirt, grass, mud, manure etc) to enter the area and invade the sensitive laminar connection. (fig 5). This provides the perfect anaerobic (without oxygen) environment for the pathogens to thrive. It is for this reason that the infected area should be opened up by your Hoof Care professional and cleaned out and packed thoroughly and regularly. Any stretching or deviations of the white line will allow the pathogens to enter. As discussed above, its not only the wet conditions that Seedy Toe is present. Overly dry hooves with longer hoof walls can and will display deviations in the white line and are also more susceptible to hoof cracks as the hoof tries to correct and breakaway the overgrown wall. There are plenty of hooves out there still in recovery mode with stretching and deviations in the white line which allow for Seedy Toe to easily take hold.
As we start to emerge from a really wet season in Australia and all the associated hoof problems, please be mindful that hooves will still need constant upkeep to avoid further problems until you can regrow a full hoof capsule nutrition being optimal supporting new hoof growth.
After a hoof resection (fig 8) or when Seedy toe is active and you are awaiting your next appointment with your Hoof Care pro, it’s important to keep the area clean. Daily hoof picks, along with flushing and protecting the area are vital. We suggest Hoof Mate soaks or daily cleanse with Bare Equine Hoof Spray. After drying off, pack the area with Hoof BallsBeeswax Blue Balls® which are formulated to target seedy toe and white line pathogens.
If ignored either by yourself of your hoof care pro, Seedy toe will continue to invade the hoof capsule usually straight up towards the coronet. This becomes a bigger problem for several reasons. Leaving it to invade more of the hoof capsule requires a more aggressive resection along with constant management and professional costs.
Potential for abscessing at coronet (fig13 )
Potential for more of the hoof capsule to be infected leading to white line disease
Costs for clients for “rehabilitation” hoof care provider costs
As you can see from the adjoining pictures, this is a pretty nasty case of white line disease. This would have been brewing for ... well a LONG time. Bare Equine stepped in as Hoof Care professionals on this job and the bottom is the same hoof after 9 months. Lots of work by the owner following our treatment protocol which included Hoof Mate soaking tablets and our earlier version of Beeswax Blue Balls®
Fig 13 – abscess blowout at the coronet from Seedy Toe invasion which has travelled up internally through the hoof capsule. Extremely painful for the horse and avoidable by addressing the infection prior to it reaching this point.
Sometimes, despite everyone’s best efforts, Seedy toe will occur. However, remaining diligent with the care of your horses’ hooves will aid in prevention or at the very least early detection. Ensure your horses feet are cleaned out as often as possible. This will ensure that your eyes are frequently on the hooves and should start to notice any changes early. Keep on a tight trim schedule. This should not exceed 6 weeks and preferably no longer than 4 weeks during the wetter months. Try your best to provide a dry area for your horse to stand in.
Ask questions! Your hoof care professional should be happy to answer them. Low sugar/starch diets with optimal mineral intake go a long way to helping prevent hoof problems. We all know that is the “ideal” and not always possible with the changing pastures and hay supply. However, it never hurts to educate yourself on this topic so you can make informed decisions when working on your feed plan and supplementation. Take professionals advice and work on a plan.
We should all be aware that the internet is filled with unqualified professionals giving advice. Hoof Care is a very common one. We pride ourselves on being staffed by Hoof Care Professionals who have been “under the horse” working for many years. Without this first hand knowledge, field work, study and qualifications in Hoof Care, you may be fighting an uphill battle or worse, causing damage to soft tissue by using an incorrectly formulated or recommended product on certain hoof conditions.
Topical support along with support from Hoof Care professionals is available at Bare Equine Australia. We have many articles available on common hoof conditions and what you can do to help your horse. Drop us a line if you want to chat or need more information. We’ve been there and our passion is to help educate and empower owners to take a more active role in Hoof Care.
Fig 12. 9 months Fig 11. 5 months in Fig 10. Initial visit resectionTake aways from this article:
• Be present with your qualified hoof care provider at each appointment.
• Keep on a schedule no more than 6 weeks, 4 weeks if possible. (remember the hoof grows 1cm per month)
• Learn a little about hoof care from Professionals in the field and train your eye to spot anything that may not look normal.
• Always seek advice from a qualified professional when choosing products or a management plan for your horse.
• Chat with a nutritionist if you feel your horses hooves are weak, prone to hoof problems or when working out a diet plan.
• Get on top of any hoof issues early. Mention any changes to your hoof care professional.
BIO – Julie Wright has worked as a professional Hoof Care provider since 2004 after working as an Equine Therapist for several years. Turning to “bending over for a living” after realising there were so many hoof issues that needed addressing with her clients’ horses. She has a passion for rehabbing hooves and educating owners to train their eyes to recognise pathology before it becomes a big issue for the horse. “Doing Crack” is her thing.
Bare Equine Hoof Care products were released in 2020 after years of formulating and testing the products “in the real world”. They are now proudly “Australia’s favourite Hoof Care range” and of course staffed by Equine Hoof Care professionals to help advise their customers on their recommended approach for specific hoof issues.
Julie Wright – Owner/Manager BARE EQUINE AUSTRALIA Dip. EPT (Equine Podiotherapy) | Certified EMT (Equine Myofunctional Therapist) www.bareequine.com.au
HorsePLAY® is the new definition of Life Lessons and Entertainment. It amps up Adventure, Excitement, Lasting Learning and Hilarious Belly Laughs to a whole new level.
HorsePLAY® is a DUAL Entertainer - an exciting Adventure Box + Coffee Table Book in a Box. You don’t even have to play it to love it. This new Award Winning Product of the Year sensation is the result of some fairly ordinary Australians doing what Australians do best – breaking the rules and taking on the stuffed suits.
REVOLUTIONARY in Design and Quality
HorsePLAY® combines two ideal products into one! The first is an exciting Adventure Game unraveling life’s great mysteries and secondly, a Coffee Table Book in Box, a feast for your eyes.
Play isn’t just the carefree horsing around of friends. It’s also about art, science and ritual. The whole mental attitude of the renaissance was one of play, and that era produced Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.
The illustrated PLAY characters in its name hint at the delights you’ll experience when you pop the lid on this hilarious adventure, excitement and suspense.
HorsePLAY® is a refreshing gallop through the day to day things we take for granted. Be prepared to be shocked as mysteries of life are revealed.
No matter your capabilities, in HorsePLAY® everyone has a chance to have that ride of their life, be a winner and let their unique talents gallop free.
Lose yourself in the stunning images and artwork. The list of artists featured in HorsePLAY® reads like a Who’s Who of the art world - Picasso, Robert Vavra, Tim Flach, Stubbs, Sorolla, Renoir, Van Gogh. Never has such incredible global talent been combined in a box of fun like this before.
Want to experience HorsePLAY’S new definition of Adventure, Excitement, Lasting Learning and Hilarious Belly Laughs? Order now at www. HorsePLAYgame.com
For more information about HorsePLAY® kindly visit: www.HorsePLAYgame.com or: www.instagram.com/horseplaygame_ www.youtube.com/user/horseplaygame4u www.facebook.com/horseplaygame
