We’re thrilled to bring you our second issue this month, following our Olympic Special a week ago.
Equestrian sport is rightly under huge scrutiny after the events of the past weeks, and whilst we don’t intend to focus on that here, it does serve as a good reminder to all of us to really ‘be better’ for the horses in our care and in our community. We’re incredibly privileged to spend time with these magnificent creatures, and it is our job to learn more about them so that we can better serve them and meet their needs as they take part in a sport that gives nothing back to them but means a lot to us.
We hope you’ll enjoy this edition and join us in our commitment to #bebetter for our horses, through educating ourselves and putting them BEFORE the sport at every single opportunity.
With the Olympics occupying our screens and closer to home, the upcoming World Cup Qualifier down in Shongweni, here at HQ, we’ve been pondering what it takes to optimally care for your horse at an event. Here are a few of our top tips:
1. TRANSPORT
While in the box, horses are constantly using their muscles for balance. With this in mind, you ideally want to arrive early to a competition, if possible, to allow your horse time to recover. After
the event, wait until he’s cool and rested before you load him and head home.
For long journeys, it is advised to take 20- to 30-minute breaks every four hours to let the horse rest. Horses are able to rest while the box is stopped but can’t get their heads down to clear their airways, so if the area is safe to unload (well off the road away from obstacles and, ideally, surrounded by a fence), it can be a good idea at this point to get them out to graze for a short while.
2. WARM-UP
The whole ‘recovery’ process after exercise actually starts as soon as you get on your horse at a show. A proper warm-up primes the body and optimises functions for the upcoming exercise by increasing oxygen delivery to the tissues. Warm-up also allows muscle tissues access to energy stores and increases the temperature within soft tissues to improve the elasticity of the tendons and ligaments, which helps to prevent injury.
3. COOL-DOWN
One of the most important steps in a horse’s post-exercise recovery is removing heat and metabolic byproducts from his deep muscles. For this reason, jumping off your horse straight after your round should be an absolute no-no. Your horse should be allowed to continue walking for at least 20 minutes after intense exercise. Slow movement, like walking, increases the amount of heat and lactic acid that is removed from muscles compared to standing still. This facilitates rapid cardiovascular recovery and minimises muscle soreness over the following days.
4. COOLING TECHNIQUES POST-COOL-DOWN
To cool your horse’s core, hose him with water. Start at his legs and work up his body as he tolerates. Fans and hand-walking also improve airflow across the horse’s body, and misting fans add an element of cooling. It is also important to seek shade to protect your horse from the sun’s heating radiation.
If it is a cold day, cool your horse with cold water (perhaps avoiding the very large muscle groups over the haunches), and once he is back to normal temperature, consider adding a sweat sheet.
DID YOU KNOW?
A horse’s ability to return to normal temperature depends on his fitness level. A well-conditioned horse will have developed physiological adaptations that help to dissipate heat in the deep muscles.
5. ADDRESSING THE LEGS
All equine athletes benefit from leg icing following heavy exercise to cool the limbs and reduce inflammation. For strenuous work or for horses with a musculoskeletal injury or concern, ice is very effective to reduce pain and inflammation but you need to completely submerge legs in ice water to cool tissues beneath the skin effectively. The best way to do this is to fill a tub, bucket, or boot with ice and water. You can also use commercial icing systems, which keep cold water flowing through the leg boots and add compression.
Another useful device is a cold-water salt spa. The salt makes the water hypertonic, so it has a ‘drawing’ effect to decrease oedema (fluid swelling). Cold water removes heat, and the jets and water movement massage (the legs) to increase circulation and also decrease oedema further.
Commercial ice boots that contain gel packs have some ability to lower temperature, especially in superficial tissues, if applied correctly. However, it is best to change the ice packs at least once in a cooling session for maximal impact.
TOP TIP Soak legs in water before applying ice boots—this helps conduct cold into the tissues.
6. WATER, FEED, AND ELECTROLYTES AT A COMPETITION
All horses need water to keep their metabolism and body working effectively. Allow horses to drink whenever they desire.
Some nutritionists also recommend adding electrolytes to your horse’s feed during shows. There are varied opinions on the use of electrolytes for competition horses and whether they should be given all the time or just at events, but all horses should either have access to free choice salt or have salt added to their food, whether at competition or at home.
Horses should be allowed to eat hay or green grass at every opportunity, as forage is an excellent storage vehicle for fluid and electrolytes in the intestines. However, you should withhold concentrate feeds until the horses are well cooled down to ensure blood flow is redirected from the muscles to the intestinal tract. With athletes competing at very high levels, it is often best to only feed concentrates after a few hours.
7. MONITOR FOR SIGNS OF DEHYDRATION
A horse needs to be well-hydrated to perform, regulate body temperature and recover well from exercise. To monitor your horse’s hydration levels, check for skin turgor, or how fast the skin snaps back when pinched; it should be about one to two seconds on the point of the shoulder.
NOTE: While people commonly pinch the neck, this is not as reliable due to differing amounts of fat beneath the skin. If you see a delay in the skin snapping back, the horse is already 3-5% dehydrated, which impacts both performance and health.
To encourage your horse to drink well before and after the event, make sure the water is room temperature, not ice cold, and add a small amount of molasses to the bucket if needed. Some find it effective to put some salt on your horse’s tongue to encourage drinking.
SIGNS OF DEHYDRATION
Knowing a horse’s normal routine and behaviour is critical for recognising that something is wrong. For example, it is a good idea to monitor manure production—not only the number of piles but also the texture. Dry faeces indicate dehydration, while faeces covered in a gelatinous mucus point toward dehydration along with a sluggish gut, with the potential to develop an intestinal impaction. Attitude changes often indicate dehydration and/or heat stress. Any alteration in the horse’s bright, alert interest in his surroundings is a warning sign. Deflated posture, poor tail tone, lack of response to stimuli, reduced appetite, and reduced urination volume or frequency are other signs of dehydration and metabolic stress.
8. BACK AT HOME
Once your horse is home, turnout will help him recover. Simply walking around a field will increase circulation and help clear the body of metabolites, reduce limb oedema, and prevent stiffness. Bodywork is also helpful for relieving stiffness, particularly in large muscle groups.
TAKE HOME MESSAGE
Use these strategies at every level of competition to help your horse recover following an athletic event. The steps you take immediately upon completion, as well as back home, can help your horse return to exercise while maximising his athletic longevity.
STANDINGS AFTER THE TOYOTA EASTER FESTIVAL
1. RONNIE HEALY & CORNET’S MANDARINO
Cornet Session x Mill Reef
POINTS: 20
2. LISA WILLIAMS & PROTEIN FEEDS PILGRIM
Perigueux x Friedensfurst
POINTS: 17
4. TAMARA RUEDA & REGENESIS VET CALLAHO LIANTOS
Lissabon x Heartbreaker
POINTS: 13
5. KELLY O’CONNOR & CAPITAL’S MOONLIGHT VAN HET KEIZERSHOF
Chin Win x Chacco Blue
POINTS: 12
6. LARA NEILL & DIAMOND DUNDEE
Diarado x Carpaccio
POINTS: 11
7. LEONA VAN DER MERWE & 334 FINALE U
Dollar D L Pi x Carthargo
POINTS: 10
8. DOMINEY ALEXANDER & CAPITAL KOLLIER
Capital Kronos x Capital A Star
POINTS: 9
9. ASHLEE HEALY & HAUSBERGER’S ELDO
Eldorado van Zeeshoek x Sambucco
POINTS: 8
10.
BRONWYN MEREDITH DOS SANTOS & CAPITAL LEVUBU
Cachas x Cassini I
POINTS: 7
GYMNASTICS
USING TO IMPROVE BALANCE AND REGULARITY
Gymnastics are a favourite of jumping instructors, and with good reason. Here we look at a simple gymnastic that can be used by riders of all levels to improve the horse’s jump through establishing better balance and stride regularity.
SET-UP
Set up the exercise as per the diagram here. You will need ten poles for the complete exercise, but beginners will start with just a pole and a cross-pole and add units of pole and cross-pole as they progress.
HOW TO RIDE THE EXERCISE
As always, begin with a thorough warm-up on the flat before starting the exercise. Then:
• Ride the exercise in canter.
• Initially, ride just a single pole and cross pole, and add more poles and cross poles as you gain confidence.
• Once you and your horse are comfortable, build up until you have incorporated the final cross pole and landing pole.
• Perform the exercise on both reins, but only approach it from one direction (as shown).
TOP TIPS FOR RIDING THE EXERCISES
• Since the distances are predetermined, you should concentrate on maintaining rhythm and direction during the approach and keeping still in your seat.
• Your horse should keep a consistent rhythm through all the bounces. Try not to interfere with him too much during the gymnastic, or you risk putting him off balance! He will gradually work out the best way to get himself through the exercise. If he is still struggling to keep a consistent rhythm after a few goes through the sequence, use your aids to help him adjust. Play around until you get it right!
RIDING IN AN
INDOOR ARENA
FOR THE FIRST TIME?
HERE ARE OUR TOP TIPS
Riding in an indoor arena for the first time can be both exciting and slightly intimidating. The enclosed space, different footing, and new environment can affect
both you and your horse. To help you make the most of your first indoor arena experience, here are some top tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride.
STEP 1: ACCLIMATE YOUR HORSE
• Allow your horse time to get used to the new environment. Walk them around the arena on a lead line before mounting. This lets them see and smell their surroundings, reducing potential anxiety.
STEP 2: ASK FOR HELP
• If possible, have an instructor or experienced rider with you. They can offer valuable tips and support, making the experience easier.
STEP 3: ADJUST TO THE ENVIRONMENT
• Indoor lighting can be different from natural light. Give your horse’s eyes time to adjust remembering that our horse’s eyes adjust a lot more slowly than ours to differences in light. In line with this, ride in a lower gait at first, especially if there are shadows or bright spots.
• Sound often echoes in an indoor arena (especially rain!). Be aware that your horse might react to
unexpected noises differently. Speak softly and calmly to help them stay relaxed. Similarly, don’t use loud verbal cues as you may upset both your own horse and other horses around you.
• If you are jumping, give your horse time to adjust to the appearance of the obstacles and the sound of his landing after the jump.
TOP TIP
Most indoor arenas feel small (simply because of the sides) so make sure you ride your corners!
STEP 4: FOLLOW NORMAL ARENA ETIQUETTE
• As always, follow normal arena etiquette, such as passing left shoulder to left shoulder, stopping if there is a fall, and calling out your intentions (e.g. ‘door’ when entering or exiting the arena).
STEP 5: WARM UP AND COOL DOWN AS NORMAL
• Whilst it can feel warmer (or colder) to us in an indoor arena, you should do your usual warm-up or cool-down when exercising your horse in these spaces.
DOGS
There have been accidents with dogs in indoor arenas. In most cases, this is because they were shut in with the horses and either were hurt themselves by the horses or caused falls. If you’ve ever heard a dog bark in an indoor arena, you’ll know that it sounds a LOT bigger than it is! Keep dogs on leads and out of the arena, or ideally out of indoor arena spaces altogether.
TOP TIP FOR JUMPERS
The jumps tend to ‘come faster’ in an indoor arena, so practice jumping in smaller spaces at home before attempting a track in an indoor.
STEP 6: ENJOY IT
• Your horse will pick up on your emotions, so try and stay relaxed and enjoy your time riding in this new setting. If you can stay calm and confident, your horse will feel more secure too. If you’re nervous, practice deep breathing and maintain a relaxed posture.
• Reward your horse for good behaviour and for calmly adjusting to the new environment. Treats and scratches go a long way in building confidence.
CONCLUSION
Riding in an indoor arena for the first time can be a rewarding experience with the right preparation and mindset. By acclimating your horse, understanding the environment, following etiquette, and staying calm, you can create a positive and productive riding session. Remember, patience and practice are key to building confidence and enjoyment in a new riding space. Happy riding!
FAST FACT
Horses and humans have similar maximum heart rates, with a horse reaching
per minute and a human reaching around
200 BEATS
per minute. However, horses have much bigger hearts, so a greater volume of blood is moved with each beat.
THE FORT STUD AND STABLES
Set in the beautiful, secluded Fort Nottingham hamlet, The Fort Stud and Stables has a unique climate ideal for horses. The cool weather and rolling green fields of the Midlands have produced many great sporthorses, as recognised by several of the top Warmblood Studs who have recently relocated to the area.
THE HISTORY
Jill Fox, the owner of The Fort Stud and Stables, grew up on the farm, which was then called Warham Stud and owned by her father, David Fox
Famous stallions that stood at the Stud include Sledgehammer, Majestic Crown, Phillipepi, and more
recently, King of Kings and Brave Tin Soldier.
The Fort Stud and Stables has also bred and produced Prix St George Dressage Horses, Open Showjumpers, Open Event Horses, and Champion Show Horses.
ABOUT JILL
Jill lives on the property and is a very experienced horsewoman. She takes a very hands-on approach and works with the horses daily.
Jill has a lifetime of experience backing horses for all disciplines. She believes that groundwork and thorough preparation are the keys to a horse being comfortable and
trusting around humans. She also believes that each horse has to be treated as an individual, and each horse's training progression is based on this philosophy.
Jill has represented KZN Eventing ten times in Inter-Provincial Eventing Teams, been a member of Dressage and Showing Teams, and ridden on an International Eventing Team.
THE STORY OF BOUNTY
Bounty is a crossbred mare rescued from the Standerton Abattoir with a foal at foot in terrible condition.
She was brought to The Fort Stud and Stables and fully recovered despite the state in which she arrived. After all she had been through, Bounty decided she did not want to be a ridden horse, so Jill put her in foal, and the rest is history. She is now happily retired with a long list of successful offspring to her name.
In total, Bounty has produced 18 very successful foals for Jill, including the following;
• Eve de Vescy by the Thoroughbred stallion Alnwick, who showjumped up to 1.20m classes.
• Wizard’s Wand, who is also by the stallion Alnwick, jumped up to 1.20m, did dressage up to Medium level, won many showing championships in KZN and has evented successfully.
• Poppet, who is by a Welsh Mountain Pony called Callador, won many championships showing classes, including the SA Victor Ludorum for the top Show Hunter Pony.
• Q Gandolf who is by the imported dressage stallion Quantico. Before Jill sold him, she took him up to Novicelevel dressage, and he won the Interprovincial Novice Championships representing KZN.
THE FACILITIES
The Fort Stud has large, wellventilated stables, a sand arena, huge grassy paddocks, and
experienced staff. Jill is always on hand and happy to work with the horses in her care.
Jill is highly experienced in breeding and foaling mares and finds the process very rewarding. The Fort Stud and Stables' natural approach to foaling down has proved very successful over many years.
Retired horses also thrive at The Fort Stud due to the natural environment in which they are kept.
To find out more about The Fort Stud and Stables contact Jill on 072 289 8471.
Fort Stud Stables is the perfect place to send your horse.
Situated in the beautiful, secluded Fort Nottingham valley in the KZN Midlands, it has a unique climate with acres of lush grazing.
With fresh spring water, large, well-ventilated stables, and great attention paid to feeding, this really is the ideal environment for your horse.
Jill Fox owns the Stud and has many years of experience breeding, foaling, backing, schooling, rehabilitation, and retirement of horses.
Saddle
love
CARING FOR YOUR SADDLE THIS WINTER
I
nspired by the Western Shoppe Saddle Care Challenge, we decided to delve deep into saddle care, maintenance, and storage.
Make sure to enter the Western Shoppe contest — we’d love to see an HQ reader take the prize!
WHY SADDLE CARE MATTERS?
A well-maintained saddle is crucial for your horse’s comfort and the longevity of your saddle. Here are our top tips for keeping your saddle in tip-top shape.
1. REGULAR CLEANING
Giving your saddle a quick clean after each ride is the first step in maintenance. Sweat, dirt, and hair can accumulate, leading to leather deterioration, so preventing build-up by tackling the issue after every ride is an absolute game changer. For most people, wiping the saddle down is all that is needed, with a proper clean (as outlined below) every few rides:
Steps to cleaning your saddle from Western Shoppe
Cleaning and conditioning your saddle is super important. Supple, strong, nourished leather helps your saddle last longer and look good!
Find good quality leather and synthetic cleaning and conditioning products at Western Shoppe, in-store and online. www.westernshoppe.com
Have a different sponge ready for each step:
1. Clean your saddle well with a leather cleaner to remove dirt, grease, and sweat. Several leather soap cleaner options are available, including traditional bars, liquids that can be conveniently sprayed, and cleaning wipes.
2. If your saddle feels dry and the leather looks dull, use some good quality leather oil on all leather parts except the panels (that sit on your pony’s back). Let the oil soak into the leather for an hour. Your saddle will have a richer colour and a more nourished look to it after oiling!
TOP TIP
Leather saddles and synthetic saddles are cared for very differently. If you have a saddle made with synthetic material, use a good quality cleaner (as recommended by the brand), and you are good to go!
3. After oiling, apply a light layer of leather balsam to all leather areas, even the panels, if they need it. Balsam locks in the oil, keeps the leather moist, and stops it from cracking.
2. DEEP CLEANING
A deep cleaning session should be conducted periodically, depending on the frequency of use and the conditions in which you ride. Deep cleaning involves disassembling parts of the saddle to ensure every nook and cranny is addressed.
Steps for deep cleaning:
1. Disassemble the saddle: Remove stirrup leathers, girth straps, and other detachable parts.
2. Clean and condition: Follow the regular cleaning steps above for each part of the saddle. Pay special attention to areas that are often missed, like the underside of the saddle.
3. Reassemble carefully: Ensure all parts are dry before putting the saddle back together to prevent mould and mildew growth.
3. STORAGE
Proper storage is vital for keeping your saddle in good condition.
Tips for storing your saddle:
1. Use a saddle stand: Always store your saddle on a stand to maintain its shape and prevent warping.
2. Keep it in a cool, dry place: Avoid storing your saddle in damp areas or direct sunlight. Excessive moisture can cause mould, while sunlight can dry out and crack the leather.
3. Cover the saddle: Use a saddle cover to protect it from dust and accidental damage.
4. ROUTINE INSPECTIONS
Regular inspections help catch issues early before they become significant problems.
What to check during inspections: 1. Stitching and seams: Look for loose or broken stitching and have it repaired promptly.
2. Leather condition: Check for cracks, dryness, or signs of wear. Condition leather as needed.
3. Tree integrity: Ensure the saddle tree (the internal framework) is not damaged. A broken tree can harm both the horse and rider.
5. PROFESSIONAL MAINTENANCE
Sometimes, professional care is necessary to maintain your saddle’s condition.
When to seek professional help: 1. Adjustments: To ensure good saddle fit, your saddle will need adjusting or reflocking periodically. Make sure to get your saddle fitter to check your saddle every three months or more often if you are worried about fit.
FINAL THOUGHTS
2. Major repairs: If there are significant issues with the leather, tree, or other components, a professional saddler should handle the repairs.
Caring for your saddle is an investment in your horse’s comfort and your own riding experience. By incorporating these maintenance practices into your routine, you can ensure that your saddle remains in excellent condition, providing years of reliable use. Happy riding!
THE WESTERN SHOPPE SADDLE CARE CHALLENGE
Show us how YOU 1) clean and 2) condition YOUR leather saddle on Instagram or Facebook by 1st September in a video or reel.
What we want to see:
• Your saddle ‘before’
• Leather cleaning and conditioning products of your choice
• Clear cleaning and conditioning steps
• Your saddle ‘after’ its TLC
• Include #saddlecarechallenge in your caption
• Tag Western Shoppe
• Ensure your post is visible to ‘public’ so we can find your entry!
• It’s okay to have a little help in your video but we want to see YOU doing the work
You could win one of three leather care kits each valued at over R1000!
On 2nd September, Western Shoppe will do a draw with all #saddlecarechallenge entries for a Carr & Day & Martin, Leovet, and Prestige Italia leather care kit.
Limited to three entries per person. 1 video = 1 entry!
Rules and T&C’s apply. Follow the link here!
INTRODUCING… TRAILBLAZERS
IN THE EQUINE SECTOR
It’s rare to discuss exciting news in the insurance world, but that is soon to change, thanks to Winx Brokers.
Founded by Francesca Snaith and Gina Goldsmith, Winx Brokers looks set to take the equine insurance world by storm. Both Gina and Francesca have a longstanding involvement with the horseracing world, but it was only recently that Francesca, a seasoned insurance executive focused on shortterm insurance, collaborated with Gina to launch the equine division of Goodsure Brokers.
The rapid growth of this equine division of Goodsure led Francesca and Gina to elect to separate the business from Goodsure through a management buyout to allow it to function as a dedicated, standalone operation under their exclusive ownership and leadership.
And so, Winx Brokers was born.
WINX BROKERS
It has been a busy period for the Winx Team, with the launch of the new brand and business, the opening of offices, multiple yearling and read-to-run sales, the launch of a new sporthorse insurance division and the impending launch of the owner administration division.
Of course, the main interest for readers of HQ Magazine is the new sporthorse division, which will be headed up by Open Showjumper Tamara Rueda. As Tam explained, “The energy and passion that Francesca and Gina have for Winx is infectious – I couldn’t pass up on the opportunity to be part of its growth and evolution.”
Tam, herself the granddaughter of renowned racehorse owner Shirley Pfeiffer, needs no introduction to the sporthorse world. With a list of titles to her name, including a recent win in the Grand Prix at Stokkiesdraai aboard her marvellous Callaho Liantos, she has all the knowledge and experience required to meet the needs of our sporting community.
Excitingly, Tam is also bringing on a whole host of equine ambassadors from the world of horse sport to support her in spreading the word about the Winx offering.
THE SPORTHORSE OFFERING
For showjumping, eventing, dressage, and leisure horses, Winx’s equestrian product offers tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of equestrian owners. Winx understands the time, effort, and passion we invest in our equestrian sports, and their services provide comprehensive coverage for unforeseen events.
KEY SERVICES INCLUDE
• MORTALITY
• LIFE-SAVING SURGERY AND CRITICAL CARE
• TRANSPORT AND QUARANTINE
• LIABILITY
• IMPORT TEST
• MEDICAL CARE
• PROSPECTIVE FOAL
• STALLION INFERTILITY
• PERSONAL ACCIDENT
• HORSE BOXES
• LOSS OF USE
WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT WINX
This exclusively female-owned (and staffed) insurance firm brings a fresh new energy to the equine insurance world. Winx’s mantra is always to put the client first and be available
24/7/365 to provide the best customer service possible. They seek to build deep client relationships, supporting clients to make the best possible choices for both themselves and their equine partners.
Insurance just got a WHOLE lot more exciting – get in touch with WINX to explore their offering. Details of the Winx offering, together with all contact information can be found at www.winxbrokers.co.za or by contacting Tamara Rueda (tamara@winxbrokers.co.za).
FAST FACT
When horses exercise, their spleen contracts, releasing a high concentration of red blood cells that enhance the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity. This natural mechanism is a remarkable adaptation that allows horses to sustain high exertion levels.
STRUCTURE THE
CORONARY BAND
GETTING TO THE HEART OF THIS VITAL
CORONARY BAND INJURIES
Injuries of the coronary band are all too common. They often result from overreach injuries, entrapment of the hoof or injuries caused by fencing or wire.
DID YOU KNOW?
Whole body vibration has been shown to increase hoof growth.
Lacerations that extend from the pastern region through the coronary band toward the back of the foot are the most common coronary band injuries. These so-called ‘heel bulb’ injuries generally occur when horses step on one another’s feet. But horses also sustain similar injuries when their feet become entangled in wire in their paddocks or when their feet get caught under fences or doors. When hacking, litter and sharp rocks put horses at risk for coronary band injuries.
Horses that overreach when performing their gaits are particularly at risk for coronary band and hoof wall injuries of the front feet. Certain disciplines also predispose to these injuries, with jumpers suffering a large number due to moving at high speed with lots of twisting and turning.
When your vet arrives, they will first want to determine the depth of the injury and whether any debris has been caught in the wound. The depth is critical, as deeper wounds can affect the coffin joint or pastern joint. Injuries deep enough to damage those structures can result in long-term lameness and the development of other complications, such as osteoarthritis, that affect soundness. Some horses who sustain wounds deep enough to damage bone structures and tendons must be euthanised.
After the vet has assessed the severity and depth of the wound, they usually wash the injured area with a povidone-iodine or iodine scrub and sterile water and remove any remaining debris or unhealthy tissue surrounding the wound.
If the wound is clean and less than six hours old, it might be suitable for suturing. However, as this is a very mobile area, a foot cast will also be required to minimise movement until the wound and coronary band are healed, which usually takes about three weeks.
Wounds more than six hours old or very contaminated are cleaned, covered with a hoof bandage, and allowed to heal on their own. If the wound is extremely contaminated, veterinarians might administer systemic antibiotics or even opt to clean and debride the wound in surgery.
AVULSION INJURIES
Active horses are also at risk for hoof avulsion injuries. These injuries create wounds that pull the hoof from the lower limb. Hoof avulsion injuries occur when a horse’s foot is cut through the entire coronary band and hoof capsule, usually after it has been caught under an object.
DID YOU KNOW? Hooves completely regenerate every eight to 12 months.
Vets treat these injuries by removing the damaged hoof wall and cleaning the wound. They then work with the horse’s farrier on a long-term treatment plan. The general principle of treatment is that the area under the damaged wall is trimmed shorter than the rest of the foot so that it doesn’t bear any weight. This gives the damaged area time to heal properly. A shoe will be applied to compensate for that section of the hoof’s inability to bear weight. These support shoes spread the load of the horse’s weight allowing the horse to stand on the undamaged portions of the foot while the damaged aspects heal.
The supportive shoes used to treat hoof avulsion injuries are constructed with either a single bar placed diagonally across the shoe or a pair of bars that cross each other diagonally from one side of the shoe to the other, forming an ‘X’ configuration. The severity and location of the injury dictate whether a single bar or an ‘X-bar’ shoe is applied to the injured hoof.
As healing takes place, farriers perform follow-up treatments such as trimming the hoof and replacing shoes.
OUTCOME OF CORONARY BAND
SECONDARY ISSUES
Hoof cracks often occur secondary to coronary band lacerations or avulsion injuries. Farriers treat hoof cracks resulting from coronary band injuries by using clips to secure shoes to the hoof wall. Farriers and vets might have to use acrylic compounds, staples, or wire lacing to close very severe cracks and support the outer hoof wall while new hoof material develops.
Most horses that sustain coronary band injuries recover complete soundness under appropriate immediate and longterm care. However, there will almost always be a hoof defect at the site of the injury.
Horses with injuries that do not involve damage to the coffin bone or pastern joint are usually very likely to return to their previous athletic soundness. However, even shallow injuries can result in some long-term effects if they involve a large portion of the coronary band.
ABSCESSES
Aside from injuries, abscesses are also common causes of coronary band damage.
Abscesses generally drain from the bottom of the horse’s foot, but when horses’ hooves are extremely hard, such as during periods of hot, dry weather, abscesses are more likely to track up the hoof wall, generally between the sensitive and nonsensitive lamina of the hoof, and break through the softer coronary band.
To treat a coronary band abscess, the owner (in discussion with their vet and farrier) will probably need to clip the hair at the break-out site, wash the wound daily, and apply an antibiotic ointment to the area.
CORONARY BAND DYSTROPHY
Coronary band dystrophy (properly termed pemphigus) refers to a disorder that causes the tissue at the top of the hoof wall to weaken or waste away. Several diseases can affect this area but with coronary band dystrophy the horse’s hair above the coronary band sticks out straight instead of laying down against the skin. There is crusting, scaling, redness, and ulceration of the tissue.
A hard band of tissue develops at the coronary band, and the hoof wall stops growing, causing the growth rings on the dorsal hoof wall to be tightly packed. The crusting and scaling extend down the hoof wall and can even involve the frog. An ulcerous condition called canker can develop, and some horses become lame.
The disease usually occurs in heavier breeds of horses, like Warmbloods.
A biopsy is the best method of diagnosing the condition, but biopsy sites are difficult to heal, so the diagnosis is usually made with an exam given by your veterinarian. If coronary band dystrophy is diagnosed, prednisolone, a strong steroid given orally, is often part of the treatment, as the disease is believed to be immunemediated.
Antibiotics are usually used to treat potential low-grade infections, and an NSAID may be prescribed for pain.
Treatment also involves removing shoes from your horse and clipping the hair at the coronary band. Your horse’s heels should be trimmed on the same plane as the frog, and all loose and unhealthy tissue should be removed with a rasp.
Cleaning the area daily and applying a cortisone ointment usually is an effective treatment. If canker is involved, treatment of the diseased tissue with cryotherapy is usually needed.
Although the condition usually heals with treatment, the treatment is time-consuming and requires huge commitment on the part of the owner.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU NOTICE A CORONARY BAND INJURY?
If your horse sustains a coronary band laceration you should call a vet as soon as you notice the wound. While waiting for the vet to arrive, you can gently wash the wound with water, apply a clean gauze bandage to the injured area, and place the horse in a clean stable to await treatment.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The coronary band is a small but crucial structure in maintaining our horses’ soundness. Whilst most injuries to this region are simply unlucky, we can seek to protect the area by keeping paddocks clean, maintaining fencing and stable doors and walls and using overreach boots wherever necessary.
C hia seeds
DO THEY HAVE A ROLE?
Chia seeds are small, round seeds generally considered healthy additions to human diets. The seeds come from the plant Salvia hispanica, a member of the mint family native to parts of Mexico and Guatemala. According to various studies and reports, chia seeds support cardiovascular and digestive health, reduce inflammation, and help control diabetes.
DID YOU KNOW?
Unlike with flaxseeds, as discussed in the last issue, the delicate surface of the chia seed breaks apart easily in the presence of moisture, so there is no need to grind them before consumption.
CHIA SEEDS FOR HORSES
While the positive effects of chia have yet to be scientifically studied in horses, it is not uncommon for horse owners to supplement equine diets with this ‘superfood.’ Anecdotal benefits of chia seeds for horses include improved skin and coat health, as well as digestive and immune support.
Chia seeds contain a whole host of great nutritional elements. They are a rich source of fat and essential fatty acids, including omega-3 fatty acids. In fact, chia seeds are the richest plant source of omega-3 fatty acids, according to the Harvard School for Public Health.
Chia seeds also feature a complete source of protein, meaning they contain all the amino acids that the body cannot make itself and must be consumed in the diet. They are also a rich source of antioxidants, fibre, calcium, phosphorus and zinc.
When chia seeds are soaked, the fibre portion forms a mucilage, which is a sticky, gelatinous substance. This mucilage is one reason some horse owners opt to feed chia seeds to horses diagnosed with gastric ulcers. The belief is that the mucilage coats the ulcers and supports healing; however, no research supports this claim.
The primary omega-3 fatty acid in chia seeds is alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA, which must be converted in the body to the bioactive forms docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Unfortunately, the conversion rate is relatively low. In a review study, it was noted that the conversion rate of ALA to EPA and DHA in humans is approximately 8-10% and that this is likely similar in horses. Ultimately then, even with chia seeds, additional supplementation with EPA and DHA directly was recommended.
HOW TO FEED
There is no suggested serving size of chia seeds for horses. A typical serving for humans is approximately two tablespoons (30 ml) according to instructions on store-bought chia seeds, so it is reasonable to estimate that this amount is too small for maximum benefits for a 500kg horse. If feeding chia seeds to a horse, soak them and mix with a small amount of soaked forage cubes, pellets, or concentrate (according to the horse’s regular diet) to minimise the risk of the small seeds irritating or getting stuck in the airway. Consult an equine nutritionist for guidance on how to safely add chia seeds to a horse’s diet.
In summary, chia seeds are packed with nutrients and have the potential to be a useful supplement in horse diets. Their high-fat content may support healthy skin and coat, but the proper serving for horses has not been determined.
References: Harvard Medical School. Chia seed benefits: What you need to know. Harvard Health Publishing. Tess, T., and T. Ross-Jones. 2014 Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in horses. Revista Brasileira de Zootecnia 43(12).
What is a floating trophy?
Floating trophies are trophies that are given out each year at an annual show. They must then be returned to the show holding body to be
handed out to the next yearly recipient. Floating trophies are environmentally friendly; there is no need to buy a new trophy or award each year.
How do I stand a horse up correctly for conformation shots?
Knowing how to take a good conformation shot is a great skill for any horse person to have. A conformation photograph can be a make-or-break factor in a horse’s sale, or if you are taking a photo for your records, using a consistent strategy will allow you to track his development accurately.
Our first tip is to wash the horse. Bath him, brush his mane and tail, and spray some coat conditioner to make him shine.
Once your horse is clean and ready for action, take him to an area with good lighting – barn shots rarely work! Ideally, you want the sun to be behind the camera, so pick your spot accordingly.
Next, you want to think about your background and the surface on which your horse is standing. Busy backgrounds detract from the horse and look unprofessional, so try to keep your background as clutter-free as possible. Similarly, it goes without saying that you want your horse to be standing on a flat, clean surface. This is trickier than it sounds, but even ground is vital if you don’t want your horse to appear artificially uphill or downhill.
In terms of position, you ideally want the horse to be standing with their legs ‘open’ or spaced out so that you can see all four legs. Make sure you have the legs on the side closest to the camera as the ones that are offset, i.e. the hind leg closest to the camera should be slightly behind the hind leg further from the camera, and the front leg closest to the camera should be slightly in front of the other front leg. Not only does this allow you to see all four legs, but it also enhances the appearance of the whole body.
Keeping your horse’s focus while you take the shot is the next trick. A distracted horse can easily ruin a photograph by looking away at the wrong moment.
Having treats or playing horse sounds can work well. Once you have the horse’s attention, try to get them to stretch their neck slightly down and out to show off their musculature. A tense horse with his head in the air will appear to have a hollow back and look under-muscled, so encouraging the head downwards is important. If you have a handler, they can step back from the horse and perhaps (if safe) kneel on the ground to encourage the horse to stretch towards them.
When taking your photo, aim to stand at the girth line to avoid being at an angle that distorts the horse’s body. Do not stand too far back or too far forward.
It takes time, patience, and practice for both the horse and the handler to get a good conformation shot. Don’t get frustrated—you will get it right eventually!
My horse’s sweet itch has not gone away completely this winter. Why is this?
Sweet itch in horses is the term for the itchiness caused by the saliva of biting midges. It typically appears in spring and often settles by winter. The condition is usually seasonal because, in sufficiently low temperatures (i.e., below four degrees Celsius), the midges do not fly and don’t bite the horses. Sweet itch results from an allergy to the saliva of these biting midges, so if the midges don’t bite, the skin can recover.
In your question, you do not mention where in the country you are based, but if temperatures with you are not consistently low enough, it is likely that the midges are still biting; hence, the sweet itch remains a problem.
TOP TIP
If you are looking to buy a horse during the colder months, be aware of the risk of purchasing a horse with sweet itch. As the condition is usually seasonal, many horses will have no signs of skin disease during winter, only to flare again when spring and summer come around. To protect yourself, look out for any signs of irregularity and discolouration of the horse’s skin in winter. This tends to be most evident if the horse has been clipped. Similarly, if the mane or tail is thin, do not just dismiss this as being due to a rug or hood that rubs. Instead, make sure to enquire with anyone who knows the horse about a history of skin issues.
Another explanation could be that your horse’s sweet itch is particularly severe, leaving him with uncomfortable skin that he scratches even without the causative midge bites. For these horses, the ‘itchscratch’ cycle can be challenging to break.
Either way, we recommend chatting to your vet about the issue and asking for advice on how to make your horse more comfortable.
Shopping fun
Sprenger AERO Stirrup
Wrap. Ride. Repeat.
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