Equestrian Business May 2016

EQUESTRIAN www.ebmonthly.co.ukuk

Bringing buyers & suppliers together

April 2016 Issue 166

Safety in the Saddle Charlott e Dujardin wearing t Equisafe he ty range

Inside...

A Life of Leisure

Essential Nutrients for Happy Hackers

Let’s Talk Summer Products Ailments

Grooming & Coat Care Products

Retailer’s Role & A Vet’s View

FAST FIBRE Suitable for horses prone to laminitis

the “Spread word...”

Fast Fibre®

Suitable for horses and ponies prone to laminitis • • • •

Only 7.5% combined starch and sugar levels High fibre, low calorie Barley and molasses free Super fast soak, in just 30–60 seconds

For friendly and helpful advice, contact our award-winning nutrition helpline today on 01362 822 902 or email helpline@allenandpage.co.uk Quote Ad Reference: STW Fast Fibre 2

www.allenandpage.com

Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Inside this issue...

4 News

The latest industry round up

12 Launch it

Brand new products to the market

15 Equine

33 Equine Nutrition

A life of leisure

38 Product Watch

What’s caught our eye this month?

Supplements

Nutritional supplements for laminitis

18 Show Preview

Al Fares – International Equine Trade Fair

22 Show Preview

Interzoo 2016 offers the greatest range ever

41 Summer Ailments

From sweet itch to sunburn and allergies to bites

47 Websites

Google’s new mobile rules

49 Business Matters Ticking boxes

50

Let’s Talk Products

Pick of the product in grooming and coat care

56 Ken Lyndon Dykes Saddle sense

57 Directory

25 accident

Contacts at a glance

awareness

Safety for horse riders and handlers

58 Five Minutes With

Theresa Morris, ‘conductor of the orchestra’ at Treehouse

EQUESTRIAN Editor

Production

Vanessa Britton +44 (0)1953 852948 Vanessa@ebmonthly.co.uk

Allison Kemp +44 (0)1953 852946 allison@ebmonthly.co.uk

Contributor

Accounts

Pat Crawford editorial@ebmonthly.co.uk

Mel Boggia +44 (0)1953 852935 creditcontrol@ebmonthly.co.uk

Advertising Sales

Sharon Long Design +44 (0)1953 852931 Carra White advertising@ebmonthly.co.uk carra@ebmonthly.co.uk

Disclaimer Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the information and reviews contained in this magazine are both accurate and up-to-date, neither Equestrian Business nor its contributors accept any liability to any party for loss or damage incurred by reliance on the information contained in this magazine or through omission or errors, howsoever caused.

Equestrian Business, The Old Dairy, Watton Road, Hingham, Norwich, Norfolk, NR9 4NN, UK

enquiries@ebmonthly.co.uk www.ebmonthly.co.uk

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What advertisers say about us...

Carr, Day & Martin used Equestrian Business to generate trade awareness for our 250th anniversary celebrations, we were delighted with the exposure and results generated by the team at EB”.

Laura Rossell Carr & day & Martin

Front cover image courtesy of Equisafety.

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Equestrian Business

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uk news A round-up of the UK’s equestrian trade news

If you have some news you’d like to share email us at: editorial@ebmonthly.co.uk or tweet@EBMonthly

FORWARD FEATURES June 2016 ❚ Equine Nutrition - Stud ❚ National Pride: Best of British Manufacturing

❚ Equine Supplements Skin and Coat

❚ Best Foot Forwards: Hoof and Leg Care

❚ Let’s Talk Products: Numnahs and Saddle Pads

July 2016 ❚ Nutritional Supplements Bones and Locomotion ❚ Diversification: Reaching for New Markets ❚ AETA Preview (Pennsylvania 13-15 August) ❚ Equine Nutrition – Balancers ❚ Let’s Talk Products: Jods, Breeches and Overtrousers

Hitting the headlines

P

robiotics International Ltd (Protexin) who manufactures healthcare products for equine, veterinary, human and agricultural markets, has been awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for a second time (first in 2011), in recognition of the company’s outstanding achievement in the International Trade category. The Queen’s Award for Enterprise is the highest business accolade a UK company can receive and is recognised globally. Protexin has been a leading manufacturer of innovative researched based products for the Equine, Veterinary, Human and Agricultural healthcare markets for over 25 years. Jonathan

Sowler, Commercial Director, Protexin, comments “The Queen’s Award for Enterprise is a global stamp of approval and is well known across the world.

To be recognised again that we have excelled in an industry that we are passionate about and dedicated to is fantastic.” Toby Lewis, Managing Director, Protexin, comments “Winning in 2011 was an honour for the company. To be recognised for a second time in 2016 really is exceptional. It is testimony to the hard work of everyone within the company over the past 5 years who have helped to ensure our business continues

to thrive.” Representatives of Protexin have been invited to attend Her Majesty The Queen’s Reception at Buckingham Palace on Thursday 14th July to celebrate this prestigious award.

Protexin factory

Celebrating 50 Years of Saddlery Succes T Our media pack and a full list of features for 2016 is available.

To get your hands on either of these, email: allison@ebmonthly.co.uk Furthermore, give us a call and see what we can do for you over the next 12 months.

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Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

his year the Society of Master Saddlers celebrates its’ 50th Anniversary and to mark the occasion a call has gone out to the trade and equestrian community.

Can you remember any major milestones; do you have any fantastic memorabilia to share or are you a walking encyclopedia when it comes to saddlery facts and figures?

As part of the 50th celebration dinner and dance at The Forest of Arden Hotel and Country Club in Warwickshire on November 19 there will be a display showcasing the history and heritage of the

society over the years.

The Society of Master Saddlers is currently developing an archive of material that will celebrate major achievements and the history of the association.

“We want the dinner and dance to be both a great celebration and an evening where people can remember and catch up on historic moments they may well have forgotten,” said Hazel Morley of the Society of Master Saddlers.

“From the history of saddle making, to how certain designs came about, why the saddlery industry moved from London

to Walsall and leading names who truly made an impact on the sector, we want to find out more.

“As well as older material that is in existence, we would also like to hear from students and younger people who have maybe written projects such as dissertations and thesis on the saddlery industry for their qualifications as this would also be very interesting.”

If you feel you can help or have material you would like to put forward contact the SMS office on +44 (0)1449 711642.

news

Kanyon Outdoor moves to larger premises K

anyon Outdoor, part of the Tripal Group, specialists in footwear for equestrian and country pursuits has moved to larger, purpose built premises in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire. With a rich heritage in supplying safety footwear and in 2015 the company has sold in excess of two million pairs of shoes to customers in a wide variety of industries around the globe.

From its humble beginnings in 1995 when three friends with a background in safety and military

footwear production founded the business in the small town of Raunds, Northamptonshire, this milestone marks an incredible achievement. As with any business success, there are challenges to overcome along the way, most recently the need for larger premises to accommodate its growing workforce and the requirement for additional warehouse space. The move into the new building was also an opportunity to bring together all of the company’s operations under one roof, as previously

Poole, one of the three Tripal Group directors commented; “the move into our new premises defines the confidence both we and our customers have in our business and we are now looking forward to the future and the opportunities we have to grow both our bespoke business and our brands domestically and globally.”

the warehouse and offices were in different locations. It has also enabled the group to make a further investment in their technical department. Simon

TRIPAL GROUP Directors (from left to right) Mark Burman, Simon Poole and Michael Turner

New test for encysted small strongyle S

Mollichaff relaunches complete feed range

M

ollichaff has relaunched its range of three complete feeds with brand new, full colour packaging and a new size of 15kg for all three varieties. The Mollichaff Complete range offers three fibre-based complete feeds for specific conditions: Mollichaff HoofKind for horses and ponies prone to laminitis; Mollichaff Calmer for nervous or excitable horses and ponies; and Mollichaff Condition for encouraging weight gain and condition.

Said Chris Tar of HorseHage: “The new packaging has been designed to catch the eye and differentiate the Mollichaff complete feeds from the Mollichaff range of chaffs, as we felt that many people were confusing the two ranges.”

To celebrate the relaunch, one bag from the new range

will have a ‘Golden Ticket’ inside to win a pair of VIP hospitality tickets for the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) for Friday October 7, 2016, which includes the best seats and a three course lunch whilst enjoying the show.

In addition, there will be a retailers’ competition offering £100 to the stockist with the best instore display featuring the Mollichaff Complete range and a consumer photo competition to win product on the HorseHage & Mollichaff Facebook page.

The relaunch campaign will be supported with national and regional advertising in both trade and consumer equestrian magazines and online. New point-of-sale items will also be available for retailers in the form of brochures and posters.

cientists at Moredun are currently developing a novel diagnostic blood test for the assessment of encysted small strongyle larval burdens in horses. The diagnostic test detects antibodies to larval cyathostomins encysted in the gut wall of infected horses.

Moredun has now entered into a collaboration with Austin Davis Biologics (service providers of EquiSal Tapeworm testing) to develop the test for use with saliva samples. If successful, this would simplify the sample collection process for horse owners, enabling them to take samples directly from their horses for analysis. For the early stages of this collaborative project, scientists are working with equine veterinary practices to collect matched samples

of blood and saliva and, after initial development, saliva test results will be compared with the previously validated blood test.

Group Leader, Professor Jacqui Matthews, who is developing the diagnostic blood test at Moredun commented: “We are delighted to collaborate with Austin Davis Biologics to further develop this test; the company has significant experience in the development of saliva-based tests for the equine market.” Dr Corrine Austin, of Austin Davis Biologics said: “We are very pleased to be working with Moredun on this exciting new project. A saliva test for encysted cyathostomins will provide horse owners, equine veterinarians and animal medicines advisors with a new tool to target the treatment of cyathostomin infections in horses.”

Global Herbs new website

G

lobal Herbs website and branding has had a refreshing facelift and hopes to make the buying experience more user friendly and efficient for its customers. Stephen Blamire, Managing Director, said: “I am delighted with our new website and our re-branding. With the new website now live, this opens up so many more opportunities for us to grow the business both in the UK and throughout Europe. Our

e-commerce capability will enable us to ship out products to our customers more efficiently and improve our service to end users, wholesalers, and retailers.” To view the new website visit: www. globalherbs.co.uk

May 2016 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Equestrian Business

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Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

news

E-Dressage shortlisted for business awards C

rewe based business, E-Dressage, and its founder, Roseanna Sunley, has been shortlisted as a finalist for three business awards already this year. Inside North West Young Professionals Awards for the Young Business Development Professional of the Year and E3 Business Awards, for the Young Entrepreneur of the Year and

Online Business of the Year.

The company, which hosts online dressage competitions and offers online dressage training memberships, was selected from amongst hundreds of nominees to become one of the finalists. Speaking on behalf of the company, Roseanna said: “E-Dressage has not even been trading for two years; we are still a

very new company and thrilled to get so much recognition. Last year we were shortlisted for six awards in total, and won one of them.

My main aim is to beat those statistics this year!”

“Each year, it becomes more of an achievement to win a finalist’s place,” said Mubarak Chati, managing director of 1 Events Media, which hosts the E3 Awards.

“Given the number and the high standard of entries, we certainly gave the Nominations Panel a difficult job. They have risen to the challenge, though, and their final selections represent the very best of the whole North West region.

For E-Dressage to have been named as a finalist for 2016 is an achievement of which it should be very proud.”

New website for retraining centre T

he British Thoroughbred Retraining Centre has launched an informative new website as part of its recent new identity and modernisation.

Packed with interesting information the easy to navigate site provides advice on how to get involved with the centre and the fantastic work carried out.

2016 is a very special year for the organisation as it celebrates its 25th Anniversary and the website includes a what’s on guide to everything that is happening throughout this exciting celebration.

There is also a ‘snap-shot’ look at horses that have been through

the retraining programme at the centre and on to new lives and homes around the country.

Over the last 25 years, The British Thoroughbred Retraining Centre has carried out some extremely valuable work and the section on Retraining and Rehabilitation looks at the process they go through and the facilities they provide.

Said TRC Chief Executive, Gillian Carlisle: “As part of our 25th Anniversary celebration, updating and relaunching the website has provided an exciting new look and feel that we hope reflects the development of the centre.”

The British Thoroughbred Retraining Centre celebrates its 25th Anniversary in 2016 and is delighted to have secured partnerships with three of the industry’s leading names.

Market leaders BEDMAX and Albion Saddlemakers, join long term partner TopSpec who have supported the TRC for nearly 10 years. visit www.britishtrc.co.uk

Want to learn more about stewarding?

E

quifest is on the lookout for more stewards to help out at this year’s event. Held at the East of England Showground, Peterborough, August 17 to 21, Equifest promises to be action packed with great showing, demonstrations and brilliant shopping.

Show secretary Betsy Branyan said: “Without our fabulous stewards, Equifest wouldn’t be possible. Our stewards are vital to ensure the show runs efficiently and professionally.

“We are on the lookout for more stewards to enhance the Equifest experience. At the same time stewards can enjoy being part of such a successful show.” You must be able to communicate well with the general public and spectators, be of a smart appearance and also be punctual. Full catering services and training will be provided to all stewards.

For further information contact Equifest on +44 (0)1733 363500 or visit www.equifest.org.uk

Premier Partnership A n historic milestone partnership has been announced between Godolphin, the global thoroughbred horseracing and breeding operation and Under Armour, the Baltimore-based global leader in performance footwear, apparel and equipment. This marks the first time an international equestrian organisation has teamed up with a leading global sports brand to be supplied with a bespoke clothing range.

Under Armour, already a partner to Premier League football clubs and sports stars around the world, will now produce a kit that is worn by jockeys, trainers and members of Team Godolphin, as they train and compete in the UK, Ireland, Australia, the United States, France and Dubai.

The new apparel range combines the best in cuttingedge technology and includes an Under Armour jacket which has been specifically developed by and tailored

for Godolphin, with unique features designed to give jockeys the best range of movement while riding.

Commenting on the agreement, John Ferguson, Chief Executive Officer and Racing Manager for Godolphin, said: “As two prestigious global sporting brands, Godolphin and Under Armour are natural partners. Together, we can take horseracing apparel to the next level with the ultimate aim of delivering a long-lasting impact for the benefit of the equine industry at large. Everyone in the team, from jockeys to stable staff, are incredibly excited about this. We are delighted to be working in partnership with a fellow pioneer as Godolphin’s kit supplier.” Under Armour will supply more than 1,500 members of Team Godolphin with uniforms across four continents, which was seen for the first time on track at The Craven Meeting in Newmarket in April.

May 2016 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Equestrian Business

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news sponsorship news

Terry Madden secures Equisafety sponsorship Equisafety Ltd is delighted to announce that Terry Madden, his team, and his horses will now be seen out and about in a selection of products from the company’s range.

TAJ performance horses has been built upon the skill, experience and passion for endurance that his driven Terry Madden for the past 20 years.

Nicky Fletcher MD said: “To be working with Terry, his partner Amanda Jones, team member Josie Ratter-Evison and these amazing horses is wonderful and I am really looking forward to seeing the products used in such a unique environment.”

“I am really looking forward to working with Nicky and for myself, my team and my horses to be wearing her phenomenal products out and about wherever we can,” said Terry.

SEIB backs BETA Business Awards The 2017 BETA Business Awards will see SEIB Insurance Brokers return as sponsor of Retailer of the Year - one of the British Equestrian Trade Association’s highly prized accolades designed to recognise and reward companies and individuals who have made significant contributions to the industry.

SEIB will support this popular award for a 12th year as part of

the company’s commitment to promoting retailing excellence.

“We are extremely pleased to continue our sponsorship,” said marketing manager Nicolina Mackenzie. “Retailers do a fantastic job in an often challenging environment and their professionalism, enthusiasm for what they do and fantastic service deserve to be celebrated.”

Haygain steams ahead at Equifest

Haygain steams ahead at Equifest

Terry training Latif Bin Kryaan, owned by HRH Sheika HRH Sheika Maryam Bint Mohammed Al Maktoum

SsangYong three-year sponsorship deal Rapidly growing Korean car brand SsangYong, has become title sponsor for three of the most prestigious horse trials in south east England, following

Haygain is delighted to sponsor the stable area and new Working Hunter Grand Prix classes at Equifest 2016. Equifest, the popular annual show, takes place at the East of England Showground, Peterborough from August 17th to 21st August 2016. As one of the largest horse shows in the country, attracting over 10,000 visitors each year, Equifest has more than 1,500

stables provided onsite and over 2,500 horses visit the event.

Said Becky James, Director of Research and Public Affairs at Haygain: “We are delighted to be sponsoring the new Working Hunter Pony Grand Prix series at Equifest. Haygain will be providing a free hay steaming service to all competitors at the stables throughout Equifest.”

a three-year agreement with the organisers, South Eastern Equestrian Services. Over 500 horses will be competing across different class levels, with both local and international riders appearing at all three weekends.

Commented Tim Nolan, joint organiser at South Eastern Equestrian Services Limited, “We

are absolutely delighted to have SsangYong Motor UK take up the title sponsorship of these three events; it’s a superb boost to the sport of eventing. We very much look forward to working with the company over the next three years.” Added Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK, “This is a great opportunity to demonstrate the off-road and towing capability of our range of 4x4 cars to the equestrian community, and to support our growing number of dealers while underlining our commitment to the area.”

Announcing the SsangYong sponsorship are Tim Nolan (centre), joint organiser at South Eastern Equestrian Services, Ian Armstrong (left) ofSsangYong dealer, Turners Hill Garage, and event rider Tom Crisp.

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Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

British Eventing Gatehouse 1* League British Eventing is delighted to announce the launch of a brand new CIC and CCI1* league sponsored by Gatehouse Hats, who is also welcomed xxxx on board as title sponsor to the new Stepping Stones 1* training series. The brand new Gatehouse 1* League will see competitors accumulate points at CIC and CCI1* events in the UK, and offer riders the chance to challenge for an impressive prize package worth over £5,000 which includes Gatehouse and Rodney Powell products across the top five placings.

Horsezone co.uk extends Para Equestrian sponsorship Horsezone.co.uk will be supporting two new para equestrian showjumping classes in 2016.

As a part of their continuing support of British Showjumping and Para Equestrian Showjumping, this year sees Horsezone.co.uk sponsor two new para equestrian showjumping competitions at Bolesworth CSI**** International (June 16-19) and Bicton Arena (June 24-26).

Gabrielle Barrett, marketing & business manager at Horsezone.co.uk said, “Horsezone was inspired by the talent on display during the National Para Club Championships last year and as a business we wanted to be able to promote the sport further. We are delighted to be working with British Showjumping to extend our sponsorship across a number of new para competitions at Bolesworth International and Bicton Arena as well as sponsoring The National Para Club Championships again this year. We hope this will be a very exciting year for para jumping and we are delighted that so many high profile riders and event organisers want to show their support for the sport.”

SHINE

Derriere Equestrian Wins National SME FedEx Business Award F

edEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp (NYSE: FDX) and the world’s largest express transportation company, has today announced the winner of its first Small Business Grant Contest in the UK. Derriere Equestrian was awarded the grand prize of £20,000 and a day’s consultancy with a London-based PR agency.

“A well-articulated, passionate and competent company, Derriere Equestrian was the clear winner. Derriere Equestrian successfully explained the market need for its product, as well as provided strong proof points highlighting its growth within its niche market. Passion and professionalism shone through and the brand clearly demonstrated its plans to expand and how this will be executed. Providing substantial evidence in support, Derriere Equestrian succinctly communicated how the investment would benefit the brand and propel it further to international success.”

Jayne Ross riding Cob In Hood, Champion Cob Hickstead Derby Meeting 2015

Photo: Spidge Event Photography

Jayne Ross and the team at Carol Bardo’s Moor Farm, winners of four HOYS Supreme and two RIHS Supreme titles, proudly sponsored

by Absorbine®

OUTSTANDING RESULTS FOR EVERYDAY GROOMING Claire Galer Managing Director of Derriere Equestrian

The Horse World’s Most Trusted Name®

® Available from your usual Absorbine Wholesaler 9 May 2016 Equestrian www.ebmonthly.co.uk Business www.absorbine.co.uk

©2016 W. F. Young, Inc.

Derriere Equestrian has been crowned the overall winner by a judging panel of business experts.

Claire Galer Managing Director of Derriere Equestrian says “We are absolutely over the moon to have won the FedEx Small Business Grant Contest 2016. This is the most fantastic achievement and win for Derriere Equestrian. We cannot reiterate our gratitude and thanks to FedEx enough, this has come at the most perfect time for the business. Our export trade has endless opportunities, the business model to date has proved both successful and fast growing. Our product range is sought after by horse riders all over the world; with the efficacy, style and quality of the products being outstanding. Riders love them! With the growth into the wider sporting market and the launch of the Derriere Equestrian Sports Bra, we are so incredibly grateful to FedEx for supporting us and ensuring we have the added value of their services and grant injection into the business.”

judges feedback

news appointments Dechra’s new trio enhances support Dechra Veterinary Products has made new appointments to enhance the service it offers to companion animal veterinary professionals. It has appointed three new Companion Animal Territory Sales Managers – Robin Hills to cover the North East, Sarah Halfide for London and Karen Richardson, who will

Companion Animal Territory Sales Manager Karen Richardson, who will assume responsibility for the S East

assume responsibility for the South East. Dechra introduced the new territory roles in addition to its existing network to provide an increased level of support across the country in response to a heightened demand for its portfolio of products.

Scott Shearer, National

Companion Animal Territory Sales Manager Sarah Halfide, who will cover the London area

Sales Manager, said: “We are delighted to have recruited three people with such strong foundations in the animal health industry to the Dechra team.

“Their veterinary experience will help us to continue enhancing the level of support we provide to our customers across the country.”

Companion Animal Territory Sales Manager Robin Hills, who will cover the North East

Dog Rocks appoints new head of sales Dechra Veterinary Products has made new appointments to enhance the service it offers to companion animal veterinary professionals. It has appointed three new Companion Animal Territory Sales Managers – Robin Hills to cover the North East, Sarah Halfide for London and Karen Richardson, who will

assume responsibility for the South East. Dechra introduced the new territory roles in addition to its existing network to provide an increased level of support across the country in response to a heightened demand for its portfolio of products.

Scott Shearer, National

Redwings to feature in Queen’s 90th Publication

T

he UK’s largest horse sanctuary, Redwings, will appear in the official commemorative publication for The Queen’s 90th Birthday Celebration to take place at Windsor Castle this May. While The Queen’s actual birthday was on April 21st and her official birthday is on a Saturday in June, The Queen’s 90th Birthday Celebration will take place from 12th to 15th May 2016 in Home Park, Windsor Castle, and will celebrate The Queen’s life, her dedication to the Commonwealth

10 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

and international affairs, her involvement with the armed forces and her love of horses.

As part of these celebrations, publisher St James’s House has produced an official commemorative album for the event – the only publication sanctioned and endorsed by the organisers.

In addition to celebrating the life and reign of The Queen, the publication showcases a selection of organisations. In the area of charities, one of the organisations selected to appear in the

Sales Manager, said: “We are delighted to have recruited three people with such strong foundations in the animal health industry to the Dechra team.

“Their veterinary experience will help us to continue enhancing the level of support we provide to our customers across the country.” publication is Redwings. With 1,500 horses, ponies, donkeys and mules living in its centres across the country, it is the UK’s largest horse sanctuary.

“Redwings is a charity dedicated to helping horses in need, and we were approached by publisher St James’s House with an invitation to appear in the event’s official commemorative album,” says Redwings’ Chief Executive Lynn Cutress. “We were invited based on our good editorial fit for the project, and it’s a great honour to be part of this historic celebration.

Copies of book – and the official event programme – can already be pre-ordered online at www. hmq90books.com.

New grazing muzzle research

N

ew research highlighting the effectiveness of grazing muzzles as a tool to help with weight management has also shown that longer grass can be more difficult for muzzled ponies to graze, and can cause frustration-related behaviour in some individuals.

Grazing muzzles have already been shown to reduce the pasture intake of ponies by around 80% by significantly reducing bite size and intake.

Ponies fitted with grazing muzzles may spend more time engaging in foraging and eating than their non-muzzled counterparts, yet the majority either lose weight or retain their body condition. This in turn helps reduce susceptibility to obesity and related disorders, such as insulin dysregulation and laminitis.

The new research was conducted by the Waltham Equine Studies Group in collaboration with Dr Annette Longland of Equine and Livestock Nutrition Services (ELNS) in Wales.

When wearing grazing muzzles pasture intake was reduced by 77% during spring and summer and by 83% during the autumn.

Clare Barfoot RNutr and the research and development manager at Spillers said: “While the frustration displayed when the muzzled ponies were on longer grass swards indicates that care should be taken to provide an accessible grass length, grazing muzzles remain an effective weight management tool. They allow turnout over large areas, increasing exercise and allow slow “trickle” feeding, to control weight gain and reduce the risk of obesity-related disorders, without significantly compromising the natural behaviour and wellbeing.”

New grazing muzzle research

May 2016 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Equestrian 11 Business

launch it

BrIght Ideas for WIse rIders

Luminosity

the latest in wearable technology

Luminosity and Visijax deliver hi viz technology to horse riders

L

uminosity has entered into an agreement with manufacturers Visijax to bring hi viz products (jackets, gilets, back packs, back pack covers and belts) featuring cutting edge wearable technology to the horseworld. Hugely popular with cyclists, the jackets, unlike anything else previously available to riders, are totally rainproof, breathable and lightweight, so can be worn over layers in winter and over a T-shirt in summer. Powered by a rechargeable battery, the range sports reflective strips and flashing waterproof LED lights; red on the back, white on the front and motion sensor, self cancelling indicators on the front and back of the sleeves.

The stylish jackets and gilets come with an ‘In Case of Emergency’ ICEid tag as standard, enabling first responders to an accident quick access to medical and next of kin information. For retail stockists this is an additional stock control tool.

The ultimate in visibility – now available to equestrian retailers from Luminosity

Find out more at www.luminosityonline.co.uk

luminosityonline.co.uk

Tel: +44 (0)1608 654040.

Pick of the Picks!

“S u p e rb ly e ff e ct iv e p re ci s e p a n d ic k ” - Farr iers Journa

l

Selected by Horse & Hound as one of the most exciting new products from BETA 2016

Unbendable, Unbreakable, Unbeatable, Guaranteed!

Precision angled solid steel Comes in two sizes original and junior to fit all equestrians Lifetime guarantee not to bend or break Contoured rubber comfort grip feels warm in winter Bright visible colours, makes it easy to spot on the yard Designed in the Rocky Mountains USA for the toughest conditions

www.ultimatehoofpick.co.uk Available from: T R A D E

Tel: 01392 460077 www.stockshop.co.uk

12 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Tel: 02380 814360 www.horsehealthtrade.co.uk

Designed in the USA, the Ultimate Hoofpick was Chosen by Horse & Hound as one of the most exciting new products from BETA 2016

T

he Ultimate Hoof pick was conceived in Colorado where the horses work on the toughest of ground.

A horse trainer and team of farriers came up with the pick to tackle compacted mud, ice, rocks and grit. Newly imported into Europe, the brightlycoloured pick with a contoured rubber grip is taking the equestrian world by storm – it’s unbendable, unbreakable, unbeatable and guaranteed for life. Horse & Hound Magazine selected The Ultimate Hoof Pick as “one of the most exciting new products at BETA for 2016.”

Tim and Jonelle Price’s grooms have used the picks on their busy yard since

January and this is what they had to say: “Awesome.”

“The leverage the pick has is insane. Magic’s hooves don’t take a million years to do anymore.”

“Highly rated. Can we have some more please?”

The Ultimate Hoof Pick is available from Horse Health Trade and Stockshop.

Find out more at ultimatehoofpick.co.uk

launch it

Changes Afoot at Equisafety Equisafety upgrades designs and introduces Charlotte Dujardin collection to keep one step ahead

“

Many high visibility products on the market nowadays have that hint of the Equisafety styling about them,” says Equisafety, “so we have decided to upgrade our collection to incorporate many

new innovative features in order to keep us ahead of the game.”

These changes will include luxury patterned linings, exclusive zip pulls and more. The company has also tweaked its patterns and grading for a more superior fit.

Equisafety is also delighted to announce that the exclusive Charlotte Dujardin high visibility collection, for which designer Nicky Fletcher has taken inspiration from international couture houses and by travelling extensively sourcing exciting new fabrics and accessories, will be available for forward orders from June.

Find out more at www.equisafety.com For further details, or to place an order, call +44 (0)151 678 7182 or email info@equisafety.com

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Introducing a new feed can set off an allergic reaction. Actually, horses develop allergies to something that they have already been exposed to, often for years – a process called sensitisation.

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My horse is allergic to oil. Allergies develop to proteins; oils are actually

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Equestrian 13 Business

www.bluechipfeed.com Available from: TRI Equestrian, The Curragh, Co. Kildare www.triequestrian.ie I sales@tri-ireland.com I 045 435020

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Equine Supplements

All sorts of reasons have been proposed in relation to the increase in the numbers of horses suffering from laminitis. While diet and long-term management are key, what advice should retailers be giving to customers in terms of the use of nutritional supplements to help in the battle with laminitis?

Nutritional Supplements

for Laminitis D

uring spring, the grass is ‘rich’ and plentiful and management becomes more difficult – and more important. But it would be unrealistic, indeed naïve, to believe that simply restricting access to pasture is the final and only answer.

In recent years we have witnessed a massive boom in demand for supplements, in addition to vitamins and minerals for horses. But how do owners know what they should be giving their horses? Can they rely on all the information available on the internet? Do all supplements do what ‘it says on the tin’?

Should equestrian retailers offer their customers advice about supplements for specific conditions such as laminitis, or is a little knowledge a dangerous thing and advice should be left to vets and other experts?

Vet’s Viewpoint

“Laminitis is an extremely painful,

debilitating condition that can be fatal,” explains Dr Becky Lees BVSc Cert AVP (EM) MRCVS. Traditionally it was accepted that laminitis was inevitable in certain types of pony over the spring and summer months, however this view is now outdated and the disease is in fact preventable.”

What causes laminitis?

Grass is the most common triggering factor for laminitis cases, but recent research has shown that up to 90% of laminitis cases are caused by underlying hormonal disease. This is why some horses develop laminitis while others grazing the same pasture do not.

Previously research into the cause of laminitis focused on the role of sugars (fructans) in grass.

It was proposed that eating large amounts of fructans could disrupt fermentation in the gut resulting in laminitis. However, recent research has shed doubt on this theory.

We now know that when horses with an underlying hormonal disease (Equine Metabolic Syndrome or Equine Cushing’s Syndrome) consume sugars such as fructans it causes abnormally high levels of a hormone called insulin. Research has shown that it is this high level of insulin that causes laminitis in these horses.

Sub header***Managing laminitis Horses showing signs of laminitis must be treated as an emergency and horse owners should be advised to seek urgent veterinary attention, as chances of recovery are maximised if treatment is started early. Any horse owner that suspects that their horse or pony has laminitis or is at high risk of laminitis should be advised to contact their vet as soon as possible. Likewise, if a horse is overweight then it is crucial that a weight loss programme is always conducted following the advice of an equine vet or qualified equine nutritionist.

Laminitis treatment and

“Horse owners are obviously desperate for their horse to get better as quickly as possible”

Previously research into the cause of laminitis focused on the role of sugars (fructans) in grass

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Equestrian 15 Business

Equine Supplements be reported to the VMD who will take appropriate action.

Do laminitic horses require a supplement?

Many laminitic horses are placed on restrictive weight-loss diets.

These often involve feeding low quality hay or soaked hay.

Recent research has shown that when hay is soaked significant amounts of vitamins, minerals and trace elements are lost.

It is therefore recommended that these horses are fed an all purpose vitamin and mineral supplement or balancer.

Supplements containing sugar must be avoided. Feeding a supplement designed to help maintain healthy hoof growth may aid recovery following an episode of laminitis. The best supplements to recommend are those containing a high level of biotin, MSM, methionine, cysteine and lysine plus zinc and manganese. Again these must be sugar free. Horse owners should always be advised to check with their vet before feeding a supplement to a laminitic horse. prevention involves time and effort and unfortunately there are no shortcuts. Veterinary advice must be followed to avoid further damage to the feet.

This usually involves box rest, remedial farriery and a diet and weight loss programme. Horse owners are obviously desperate for their horse to get better as quickly as possible and will often look for a nutritional supplement to help speed this up. This has led to a plethora of supplements being launched and marketed at the owners of laminitics. It is crucial for retailers to advise

horse owners that supplements are not an easy alternative, but must be used in conjunction with and following advice from their vet.

Laminitis supplements It is important to understand that laminitis supplements are not drugs which are regulated by the Veterinary Medicines Act. Because of this supplements do not have any peer reviewed research behind them to prove any effect to horses with laminitis.

“supplements do not have any peer reviewed research behind them” Supplements are considered to be complementary feeds and are not allowed to make claims to prevent, treat or cure any disease such as laminitis. If retailers believe that a product label, product literature or company is making claims that a product prevents, treats or cures laminitis then this should

Do all supplements do what ‘it says on the tin’?

SUPPORT OPTIMUM METABOLIC & VASCULAR HEALTH

IN HORSES & PONIES PRONE TO LAMINITIS

www.readysupp.com 16 Equestrian May 2016 01672 541 157 | info@readysupp.com Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Contact us to find out more on becoming a stockist

Equine Supplements

Pick of the products

Here’s a little helping hand when it comes to choosing and recommending laminitis supplements

Lami Light

Farrier’s Formula

When feeding horses and ponies prone to laminitis, the ideal solution is Blue Chip Lami-Light, a low calorie, low starch and sugar fee balancer that ensures correct levels of vitamins, minerals and nutrients are received on a daily basis. The whole cereal and molasses free formula combines the comprehensive hoof supplement, SoundHoof, formulated with biotin and methionine to improve hoof strength with pre and probiotics to ensure good digestive health. Highly recommended by vets and farriers, it is sold in bright, informative packaging.

The only product of its kind subjected to independent scientific research and published in a peer reviewed veterinary journal: The Veterinary Record.

Farrier’s Formula supplies the nutrients for strong and dense growth of the hoof wall and sole. The accelerated growth of strengthened hoof wall resulting from providing this ideal balance of nutrients supports laminitis recovery. Over 30 years of research, clinical trials and field testing validate its effectiveness.

www.lifedatalabs.co.uk

www.bluechipfeed.com

Think Laminitix

Laminaze

Think Laminitix provides a blend of natural, nutritional aids to stabilise the metabolism, digestive system and blood sugar levels to maintain circulation and soundness. This supplement contains a fully fortified hoof supplement along with nutrients such as MSM, magnesium, cinnamon and natural ant-acids.

Think Laminitix is part of the Think product range from Brinicombe Equine.

Laminaze is a unique blend of over 40 ingredients combining with key gut support, bio-available sulphur and targeted nutrients, in a palatable formula to maintain hoof health and improve their diet and lifestyle. Prebiotics and live probiotics are included for their ability to a stable, healthy gut environment. Naturally sourced antioxidants are present to support the liver. Bio-available sulphur (MSM) is recommended for supporting healthy hoof growth and strong sulphur bonds within the laminae.

www.brinicombe-equine.co.uk

www.naf-equine.eu/uk

LamiCare ReadySupp LamiCare is carefully formulated for horses and ponies prone to laminitis who require extra support. The comprehensive combination of ingredients supplies nutrients, nutraceuticals and herbs essential for healthy hoof growth and is designed to offer optimum vascular support and metabolic balancing.

LamiCare contains supra-optimal levels of biotin, plus chelated zinc and copper, essential fatty acids (DHA sourced from algae), live yeast to help reduce gut disturbance that can be involved with laminitis, balancing cinnamon and fenugreek, and vascular supporting hawthorn and nettle.

www.readysupp.com

Essential Balancer From Saracen, this is a cost effective, low intake, complete feed balancer for horses and ponies to be fed alongside an existing ration or forage only diet. A low sugar, low starch, non heating formula offering a source of quality proteins for muscle tone and function, and blend of yeast cultures to support digestive health. This barley free balanced ration contains superior oil sources to support optimum health, coat and skin condition and includes a full spectrum of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to support immune function, general health and well being.

www.saracenhorsefeeds.com May 2016www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Equestrian 17 Business

Show Preview

Al Fares

International equine trade fair In 2016, the oldest and most prominent international trade fair Al Fares, will once again open its doors from October 5 to 7. A Biennial event, the trade fair celebrates its 11th year of operation with a change of venue to Meydan, a venue synonymous with prestige and class.

Al Fares will cover the entire spectrum of the equine industry, unveiling an array of international products, services, equipment, and veterinary technology for the horse, rider, horse owners, breeders and equine professionals.

October is the beginning of the equine season in the UAE and it is entirely appropriate that Al Fares hosts the event at Meydan, turning a dream into reality. It is the visionary concept of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

Why Meydan?

Meydan was conceptualized with a view to hold the world’s most coveted Dubai World Cup, a high profile horse race that attracts horse lovers and owners, as well as the world’s rich and famous.

Today, Meydan boasts holding some of the most prestigious and glamour-filled events and exhibitions attended by elite businesses and delegates from around the globe.

At a strategic location Meydan is self-contained with a hotel, the best restaurants, and par excellence ambience. Needless to say, Meydan is surrounded by

stables and is home to the best of the Arabian bred horses.

Why Al Fares?

More than €4.5 million ($5.6 million) worth of retail deals were signed at the last Al Fares event.

More than 5,000 trade visitors from the equine industry visited the fair, while approximately 85 per cent of exhibitors have already confirmed participation at this year’s event.

Rasheed Mbayed, exhibition manager of the fair, which is organised by Al Fajer Information and Services every two years, said: “The GCC equine industry once again came under the global spotlight through Al Fares. Al Fares 2014 saw participation of international companies who reiterated their interest to be part of 2016 edition.”

Dr Walid Sherbiny, veterinary manager, Gulf Rider, said: “This is our 10th participation in Al Fares.

Since 1995, Al Fares has grown dramatically to be a leading hub for equine products, and we have been responding to that growth by booking larger stands every time.

“We brought to Al Fares this year products from 22 brands from different parts of the world, mainly Australia, Germany, France, UK, and USA, in collaboration with our partners Al Awani Company. Our products vary between veterinary

medicine and veterinary equipment, fortifications, vitamins, processing equipment, and stable equipment.”

Mustafa Ali Ahmed Anshan and Saif Khalifa Matar Al Mezaina, co-owners of Royal Equestrian Club Dubai, who were first-time participants, said: “Specialised exhibitions like Al Fares are so important because they bring visitors from all over the world to view the advancement of the equine sector in the UAE. Based on our first participation, we

“After the Dubai World Cup last March, AlFares will be the kick off for the next season in the UAE.” have received an overwhelming response to the services we provide. Our core focus is training riders, transferring them from beginners to world-class certified riders.

“We are in final stages of launching dedicated academic equine courses in collaboration with a British academy that will operate from the Royal Equestrian Club Dubai, bringing international experts and trainers from the UK, USA, and Germany. We have also

started a new service to video conference the courses, bringing our expertise to anywhere in the region. Al Fares is a great place to be seen.”

Another first time participant Michael Nosch, head of Sales, Eqvivance, a company that designs 3D statues of horses through innovative 3D scanning technology, said: “We came to the UAE because we have a passion for Arabian horses and Dubai is a big market to be in. We have displayed in Al Fares a creative brand-new project that combines scanning, picturing, 3D modeling, and molding technologies to create a true to life design of a specific horse for any owner in the region. We can create these statues in any specific position for the horse, adding the tiny details of the horse characteristics.”

More than 215 companies from 21 countries took part in the fair, which remains the only exhibition recognised worldwide as a leading trade platform to do business and capitalise on the booming regional market for equestrian products.

Among the major participants were global players in the equestrian trade market from Austria, Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, India, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland the US and the UK.

find out more To make the most of this exciting new equestrian market, visit or exhibit at Al Fares Dubai yourself.

To find out more contact official UK and Ireland Exhibition Agents: PressPoint Media Ltd Email: alfares@presspoint.co.uk Tel: +44 (0)1953 852937

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Equestrian 19 Business

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Equestrian 21 Business

Show preview

feeding

Visitor Service Exhibition Centre Nuremberg T +49 911 86 06-49 69 F +49 911 86 06-49 68 Email: visitorservice@ nuernbergmesse.de

Accommodation in Nuremberg Trade fair visitors can find accommodation at http://hotel. nuernberg.de/en. The NĂźrnbergMesse service team can provide assistance. Please call +49 9 11 86 06-84 07 or email hotels@ nuernbergmesse.de.

The Visitor Service can be contacted by phone +49 9 11 86 06-49 69, fax +49 9 11 86 06-49 68 or email: visitorservice@ nuernbergmesse.de

offers the greatest range ever More expertise, a greater global focus and a wider range: As the leading international fair for the pet supplies industry, Interzoo 2016 is set to break new records.

A

round 1,800 exhibitors (up from 1,700 in 2014) will gather in Nuremberg from May 26-29 to provide an overview of their global range of pet foods and accessories, grooming products, services, gardening and equestrian products.

Manufacturers, wholesalers and service providers from more than 60 countries will showcase their products and services at the world’s largest trade fair for the

22 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

pet industry on a record-breaking display area of around 115,000 square metres.

This year’s Interzoo has attracted much more interest from both Germany and other countries. The number of German exhibitors rose by 8 percent, while the number of exhibitors from overseas was up 10 percent.

As a result, the event continues to have a strong international flavour, with more than 80

percent of exhibitors from outside Germany. This is a further indication that Interzoo will once again be the No. 1 global event for the pet industry. Show organiser Wirtschaftsgemeinschaft Zoologischer Fachbetriebe GmbH (WZF) reports an increase in display areas booked by European companies from Belgium, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, the Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary. From overseas there

Animal protection at Interzoo has been greater demand from the USA, Brazil, India, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and Australia.

One of the trends already making itself felt at Interzoo 2016 is the demand for healthy, animalfriendly nutrition. “There is a long-term trend towards animal foods without additives such as flavour enhancers, preservation agents and colours. There is also an increasing move towards ingredients produced without GM technologies,” says Norbert Holthenrich, President of the German Pet Trade and Industry Association (ZZF). Also popular are pet rewards and snacks that have an added health benefit, for example chews that help reduce tartar, plaque and mouth odour.

Product segments

At Interzoo 2016, the largest display area is once again devoted to products for dogs and cats, accounting for 41 percent of manufacturers.

The second largest segment, with 12 percent each, is for exhibitors of aquarium products and articles for small animals

and rodents. Nine percent of vendors are exhibiting products for ornamental birds, while six percent will display articles for terrariums and products for animals in the garden respectively. Three percent of the exhibiting companies offer accessories for equestrian sports, and two percent offer boutique items for pets. There are also other display areas dedicated to shop fitting and packaging, pet food technology, accessories for living with pets and specialist literature/multimedia. The data provided by the exhibitors possibly included multiple answers.

Get more out of your visit

Visitors to the fair tend to have a lot of questions, for example about registration, services at the venue, the pet care centre or the correct address for their GPS. The answers to many of these queries are provided on the Interzoo website www.interzoo.com.

An exhibitor database allows visitors to search for company names and hall numbers and

make appointments. There is also a special search function for product groups.

Fast entry

Interzoo visitors who purchase their entrance tickets from the online ticket shop at www. interzoo.com/ticketshop benefit from speedy entry to the show on the day via the “fast lane“, without having to queue at the ticket office.

The same applies to visitors using an invitation from an exhibitor (electronic voucher or hard copy via post). These invitations also have to be registered online beforehand so that visitors can receive an online ticket. Vouchers can also be redeemed at the venue subject to a processing fee of €10.00.

The e-tickets can be printed directly online or saved to a smartphone. Pet industry professionals who already visited Interzoo in 2012 or 2014 do not need to have their trade visitor credentials verified again but will be sent the relevant documents by post for use in the online ticket shop.

Interzoo is a trade fair for pet supplies and is not for the purpose of selling live animals. If an exhibitor wishes to display pets, they must register this beforehand and adapt the way the pets are kept at the fair to comply with the provisions and regulations that apply in Germany. For example, ornamental fish in pillar or wall-mounted aquariums or reptiles in mini terrariums are prohibited.

As the world’s largest trade fair for pet requirements, Interzoo is intended for commercial enterprises selling pets and pet supplies, pet food and accessory manufacturers, vets, regulatory authorities and commercial consumers like vet clinics, alternative animal health practitioners, pet boarding facilities and pet grooming salons.

For more information on obtaining accreditation as a trade visitor go to: www. interzoo.com/en/visitors

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Equestrian 23 Business

Out of date web site?

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Safety

feeding

“you would at least expect the rider and the horse to be wearing high viz clothing” Bee Seen

Accident Awareness

We tend to restrict discussions about rider safety to riding on the road - and certainly horses and riders are among the most vulnerable road-users. This applies to main roads, side streets and country lanes, but safety is an important issue regardless of whether a rider is mounted, or a handler is on the ground or working around the yard.

T

here are about three million horse riders in the UK and, fortunately, fatal accidents are actually relatively rare. In 2014 the police recorded 104 rider/horse road accidents which included one adult rider who was killed, a child rider who was seriously injured and twentythree adult riders whose injuries were deemed serious.

Before we congratulate ourselves on the safety standards maintained, we first need to be aware that the number of accidents recorded is almost undoubtedly the tip of a very large iceberg - there are probably thousands of minor road-related accidents that aren’t reported and thus remain unrecorded.

The British Horse Society

draws horse owners’ and riders’ attention to the importance of reading and assimilating the information in an up-to-date copy of the Highway Code.

The BHS also points out that reference to roads ‘generally includes footpaths, bridleways and cycle tracks, and many roadways and driveways on private land (including many car parks). In most cases, the law will apply to them but there may be additional rules for particular paths or rights of way’. It is very unlikely that the average rider is aware of the extent of this legislation and retailers may want to contribute to safety by offering customers opportunity to purchase a copy of the latest Highway Code.

One of the recurrent situations that continues to anger car drivers and other road users relates to the rider who hacks out on a dull, dreary day - or in the dusk or even in the dark – wearing dark clothing on a darkcoloured horse! Of course, in ideal circumstances this should never, ever, happen because they shouldn’t be hacking in such conditions anyway. On rare occasions when there really isn’t an option - for example, when the rider sets out in sunshine but the weather quickly deteriorates - you would at least expect the rider and the horse to be wearing high viz clothing.

Why-oh-why do some riders assume high viz is something they only need to pull out during the darker months of the year?

Even on a lovely summer day, visibility can be quite limited when riding under a canopy of trees. High viz clothing ensures that car drivers see the rider/ horse much earlier so giving him chance to be ready, prepare, slow down and drive appropriately.

Even in rural and semi-rural areas, there are always impatient, discourteous motorists. Some consider they, as road tax payers, Some manufacturers offer comprehensive training covering the fitting of safety equipment

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Equestrian 25 Business

INTRODUCING THE

Fian

Preserving the tradition of a supremely elegant hat

MADE IN BRITAIN

BY APPOINTMENT TO HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN PROTECTIVE HEADWEAR MANUFACTURERS WREXHAM

26 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk Kitemarked to VG1 01.040 2014-12

VG1 01.040 2014-12

www.charlesowen.co.uk

Safety should have priority; others claim their lack of consideration is routed in the arrogance, unawareness, rule-the-road attitude of horse owners. There is probably a modicum of truth in their claim but, in any event, the rider has a duty to apply the courtesy and common-sense he would like other road-users to exhibit.

Very few horse owners can totally avoid riding on the road – even if it’s only for a short distance to reach a bridlepath or an exercise area. An accident can occur when taking a horse out to a paddock. No situation is totally ‘safe’ - and nowhere is totally ‘safe’ because riding and handling horses involves so many variables. An indoor arena is probably perceived as the ‘safest’ place to ride but there have been numerous freak accidents; only recently an experienced rider was bucked off a normally well-mannered horse, thrown against the kicking boards - and sustained a nasty injury. Repeat: no situation involving a horse is automatically ‘safe’ - it is up to the horse owner/rider to apply common-sense.

High risk

William Fox-Pitt, winner of two Olympic medals and twenty championship medals, had a serious accident causing a head trauma

“The Pony Club and British Riding Clubs are amongst the bodies that provide members with excellent information and advice concerning safety wear and equipment” Parents of young riders are generally pretty hot on equipping the child with appropriate gear

Riding cross country is regarded as one of the most dangerous equestrian disciplines – and this applies to riders at all levels of experience. William Fox-Pitt, winner of two Olympic medals and twenty championship medals, had a serious accident causing a ‘head trauma’ during the World Young Horse Championships in France last year and was placed in an induced coma.

Fortunately, William is back on the eventing scene but his accident demonstrates that the best in the world aren’t immune to injury. The Pony Club and British Riding Clubs are amongst the bodies that provide members with excellent information and advice concerning safety wear and equipment. Nevertheless, today’s riders are faced with ever-increasing choices and those who are new to eventing need specialist help and advice from their retailer.

Accident aware

Freak accidents are commonplace and it is fortunate that very few result in serious injury. Very sadly, the latest tragic death involved a nine-year-old girl who sustained fatal injuries when she was kicked by another horse whilst riding her pony. The little girl, taking part in an organised event, was riding behind the horse that kicked out at her pony.

Accidents in the stable are commonplace – fortunately they are generally trivial. A horse standing on the rider’s foot will be painful but hardly likely to be lifethreatening – however, it will be additionally painful if the rider is not wearing appropriate footwear.

By the same token, safety procedures should include tying the horse up before mucking out, grooming or carrying out other jobs in the stable; this reduces the risk of being trodden on, kicked, nipped, shoved or pushed over.

The safety gear and equipment available to today’s riders is extensive and effective – standards have never been higher.

But of course, simply buying the equipment isn’t the final answer.

Clipper Round The World Yacht Race sailor Sarah Young was not tethered to the yacht – standard

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Equestrian 27 Business

Safety Accidents can occur at any time

safety procedure – when she was tragically washed overboard in the mid-north Pacific. This accident identifies the importance of complying with safety practices – including utilising appropriate equipment and clothing at all times.

Safety equipment

Parents of young riders are generally pretty hot on equipping the child with appropriate gear including hat, back/body protector, suitable footwear and so on. One of the problems the retailer faces is that, despite advice to the contrary, some parents insist on buying ‘too large’ on the basis ‘he will grow into it’. In fact, safety equipment that doesn’t fit correctly may actually endanger rather than protect.

BETA - and some manufacturers - offer comprehensive training covering the fitting of safety equipment and although retailers cannot force customers to comply with their advice, they have a responsibility ensure that the information and procedures provided by staff remains up-todate.

procedures and legislation. In the event of an accident, failure to comply could have serious consequences. Horse owners also need to be aware that there have been several cases where riders have made successful claims for compensation in relation to injuries sustained whilst riding someone else’s horse. In at least one case, the claim related to the rider sustaining an injury whilst riding a friend’s horse.

Rider safety is dependent on many, many things: commonsense plus seeking, listening to and implementing sound advice are fundamental so all aspects of safety.

Insurance

Most owners protect their horse with an insurance plan but relatively small numbers take out a package to cover themselves.

Although some domestic and life insurance policies possibly include partial cover, all riders – not just those who own horses -should be encouraged to check their policy. We follow the USA in becoming an increasingly litigious society and it stands to reason that riding schools, livery yards, trainers, instructors – and so on – need to be fully aware of their comprehensive responsibilities in relation to health and safety

28 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

An indoor arena is probably perceived as the ‘safest’ place

Dead? Or Dead Slow?

New statistics from The British Horse Society (BHS) reveal the real threat on Britain’s roads for horse riders. Over 60% of incidents involving horses on the roads happen between 10am and 3pm, with accidents most

“An accident can occur when taking a horse out to a paddock.

No situation is totally ‘safe’”

commonly occurring in June.

75% of accidents happened because the vehicle passed the horse without allowing enough space, while over a quarter of respondents said that they also had to deal with driver road rage during the incident. The majority of these incidents happened on a minor road and in a rural area.

Nearly half of the horses involved were used to riding on the roads more than once a week.

The launch of the BHS campaign, Dead Slow, follows a number of high profile petitions calling for greater protection for horse and rider on the roads following the injury of carriage master Mark Evans and the death of his horse Wil, who was hit by a car in Wales as he pulled a funeral cortege.

Lee Hackett, BHS Director of Policy, said: “We are asking drivers to slow down to 15mph when they see a horse on the road. A lot of people aren’t sure how to safely pass a horse when driving, and so we have produced a video showing exactly how it should be done. We are campaigning for legislative change, but that can take a long time. That is why we are asking for this instant change in behaviour from drivers.”

Horse accidents can be reported to the BHS via the website: www. horseaccidents.org.uk

This is a fantastic opportunity for the retailer to work with a company that is looking to establish a national presence through “resellers” Saddletrac is a unique product every parent or rider should have! “To be seen is to be safe”

How does it work for the reseller? Simple!!

1. You are appointed as a reseller and allocated a unique identification reference (tracked URL).

2. You promote the product to your customer/client base 3. On line customer registration, either in store or on your web site at their leisure.

4. No administration or paperwork 5. Sales reports produced on monthly basis 6. Payment of commission made monthly in arrears

Benefits

1. Generate an unlimited new revenue stream for your business 2. Payment made per on going connection (every month whilst on line) 3. No Stock requirement 4. No Overheads 5. No accounting 6. No financial risk or investment

If you are interested in providing a safer environment for the rider who is potentially “at Risk” and want to find out more information and register your interest please contact Robert walker 07802952888 or email robertwalker@cleanround.co.uk

Spartan Boots With Steel Toe Cap

One of the leading equestrian safety riding boots on the market.

European standard EN ISO 20345.

Teams well with our half chaps and gaiters.

The whole boot has the safety certification not just the toe cap.

Tuffa Footwear Ltd E-mail sales@tuffaboots.com Tel 01953 880914 www.tuffaboots.com May 2016 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Equestrian 29 Business

Safety

Pick of the products New Champion designs RACESAFE PROVENT 3.0 All Champion hats are certified to PAS 015 or VG1 01.040 2014-12. With several stunning new designs recently added to the Champion collection, including the striking Puissance riding hat, your customers will be spoilt for choice. Also new for 2016, the Ti22 Body Protector heralds a whole new era in comfort, flexibility and protection. Featuring Champion’s trailblazing ‘SegTek’ panel construction, the Ti22 gives a minimum of 100 flexible sections that mould to the rider’s shape and flex with movement.

www.championhats.co.uk

A new generation of lightweight, breathable protection that delivers maximum protection and reassurance of the highest European & BETA 2009 Level 3 standard. Racesafe’s lightest ever Level 3 protection has been developed using the latest protection technology. It has double ventilation whereby heat is released via the perforated protection and breathable net outer. Increased flexibility is achieved via the flex of up to 70 independently hinged sections and slim line design.

An improved size range and elasticated self-adjustment system improves levels of movement and comfort.

Air vest

www.racesafe.co.uk

Hit-air’s Air Vest is continuing to help keep riders of all disciplines safe. Customers increasingly appreciate the incredibly neat and adjustable fit, the outward inflation and the unique neck and lower back protection. They offer great sales service and three year’s warranty.

Adult models start from £395 and the vests are available in black, navy, red, royal blue and florescent yellow. Detachable panels of back and chest protection are also now available from £35.

www.hitairuk.co.uk

AyrBrush The sophisticated yet sporty AyrBrush from Charles Owen features the same low profile, centrally located front and rear ventilation holes, and GRpx technology harness as the popular Ayr8.

The AyrBrush features a smooth matte finish created with an exclusive mark-resistant paint made specially in Britain for easy maintenance and has an impact-absorbing shell strengthened with glass-reinforced fibers. Sizes are 6 5/8 – 7 ½, or 5461cm and available Colors are black, navy and brown.

New 360 LED armband A brand new reflective LED armband has just been launched by wearable tech experts, Fhoss Technology, providing horse riders with 360-degree visibility during hours of low light and darkness.

Powered by a 100,000hour battery, the FiArmband is based on innovative and patented technology which allows users to be illuminated in complete darkness.

Made from lightweight, water resistant nylon, the FiArmband can wrap around the wrist, arm or ankle.

www.fhoss.com

www.charlesowen.co.uk

15mph Please!

Toggi Safety Footwear

Summer safety solution

Following sponsorship of Cornish rider Debbie Smith, who started an online petition calling for a legal requirement for motorists to ‘pass a horse wide and slow’ Equisafety Ltd is pleased to present its ‘Please Pass Wide & Slowly 15mph Air Waistcoat’. It is cut to ergonomically fit the body and is fastened by a front zip.

The cleverly designed back, enables the rider to make it larger to fit over winter jackets or body armour, but to clinch it in to wear over summer clothes.

The new range of protective safety footwear from Toggi is manufactured to provide customers with the ideal combination of comfort and protection. Perfect for potentially hazardous work environments, but comfortable enough for every day protection, these boots are suitable for riding and protect the wearer’s toes against injury from treads by a horse, falling objects and crushing. Incorporating the practical Kodiac protective jodhpur boot and the stylish Kendrick protective long riding boot (a first in the market), the range conforms to the EN20345:2011 safety standard.

Different from everything else in the equestrian hi viz space, a Visijax City Ace jacket from Luminosity is a hi tech, jacket featuring the latest LED lights: motion sensor indicators, white front and red tail lights. Powered by one rechargeable battery, this illuminated jacket is the perfect year-round solution for keeping dry, comfortable and, crucially, safe in the saddle. Incredibly lightweight the jacket can be worn over layers or, on warmer days, popped over a t-shirt. Each jacket is supplied with a complimentary ICE-id tag.

www.equisafety.com 30 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

www.toggi.com

www.luminosityonline.co.uk

WWW.TOGGI.COM

速

22

protective wear

feaTurInG kOdIaC and kendrICk A REVOLUTION IN ERGONOMIC DESIGN cutting edge comfort and flexibility achieved through revolutionary Seg-Tek construction channelled airflow heat release system military grade outer mesh kendrICk sTeel TOe Cap lOnG bOOT conforms to the eN 20-345 safety standard.

latest high-tech lightweight and malleable foam upwards of 100 forming Seg-Tek panels providing the perfect contoured fit

Features an anti-skid rubber sole with steel shanks

www.championhats.co.uk May 2016 Equestrian 31 www.ebmonthly.co.uk Business

serious tools for serious work

Ragwort & Weed Remover

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Emerald Green Feeds 100% Natural Grass and Alfalfa Feeds, see our website for details of the full product range.

“I use Emerald Green Feeds’ pellets for all of my horses because they are so versatile and provide a totally natural feed. My horses look and feel in great condition with gleaming coats ready to perform to their best.”

Sarah Bullimore, 4* Event Rider

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32 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

ed nd

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ucher & So Po

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Equine Nutrition feeding

A life of leisure Leisure riding – what a subjective description! It could be interpreted as including all forms of riding that are not directly competitive, but obviously doesn’t relate to police horses used for crowd control or those at the top of their competitive sports, ridden by professionals. Generally speaking, it most frequently refers to relatively gentle hacking, riding holidays, fun activities such as picnic rides, mounted games – and so on. It is quite obvious that the degree of equine fitness needed varies dependent on the regularity and standard of the participation – which indicates the importance of adapting nutritional advice to suit the individual horse.

E

quine nutrition has come a very long way in recent years and feed companies continue to invest in research and product development.

Today the numbers of specialist feeds, already vast, continues to expand. Aligned to this, the major feed producers operate advisory services for horse owners and formalised training for retailers. Although the retailer is not a nutritionist he needs to be able to offer comprehensive information and advice – and if he is unable to

solve a problem, he needs to know who can!

Common issues

Despite massive advances in equine nutrition, four ‘issues’ continue to cause problems.

The first – and very common concerns the fact that a lot of horse owners fail to follow the advice provided by the feed company. They perceive ‘adding a bit more’ to the recommended ration makes the horse ‘happy’ and demonstrates their love. And their desire to express ‘love’ can

be very liberal, often repeated and result in gross over-feeding.

Sadly, when the horse gets fat it is often the feed company that gets the blame on the basis that it is the food – not the over-feeding – that has created the problem.

Secondly and fundamentally important, many horse owners tend to be very bad at evaluating the amount and type of work their horse is undertaking. Time spent out of the stable or the paddock doesn’t equate to ‘work’ or ‘exercise’ when the horse is simply mooching along whilst his

owner carries on an animated conversation with another rider.

Aligned to this problem, many owners are very bad at reducing rations in line with changes in the management programme such as when the horse is off work or when exercise is restricted due to weather conditions.

Thirdly, owners will often continue to buy a particular feed for their horse because ‘he likes it’ whilst completely ignoring the fact that the animal is now ten years older, doing far less work and that another feed –

May 2016 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Equestrian 33 Business

equine nutrition

Leisure riding obviously doesn’t relate to police horses used for crowd control

Correct feeding also has a major impact on leg/hoof care

“When we speak of ‘supplements’ we are normally thinking about products that are formulated to redress specific deficiencies” albeit possibly from the same manufacturer’s range - might now be far more suitable.

Fourthly, owners who perceive adding a couple of scoops to the rations recommended by the manufacturer are also often guilty of adding supplements ad lib. Walk into a feed-room and witness a shelf or two devoted to supplements and ponder if they have been carefully selected and are really necessary. Some undoubtedly help by adjusting

It surprises many people how much work a horse can do based on energy received from a forage diet of grass

34 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

deficiencies or provide a meaningful boost in other ways - but many aren’t necessary and, in some cases, may unbalance the feed to which they are added.

Again, it is not the manufacturers of the supplements who are to blame; it is the fault of the owner who adds supplements without advice – often as further expressions of ‘love’ and ‘good management’.

When we speak of ‘supplements’

we are normally thinking about products that are formulated to redress specific deficiencies or other problems. They generally come in pots and tubs but horse owners often ‘supplement’ their horse’s feed by adding molasses or sugar beet or something else that is temptingly sweet. Most horses, like most humans, have a sweet tooth and adding what amounts to ‘sugar’, in whatever form, is as bad for horses as it is for us.

Fifthly and lastly – and directly related to 1, 2 and 4 above – many horseowners are very poor when it comes to recognising the difference between ‘fat and ‘fit’.

The fit horse is rarely if ever ‘fat’.

The ‘fat’ horse can never be truly ‘fit’. Human obesity has reached alarming proportions. The retailer who can persuade his customers to avoid over indulgence whilst applying common-sense is doing an excellent job!

choose a different feed which can be successfully given at the recommended levels.

Alternatively, if a customer needs to cut back calorie intake, advise them to feed less than the recommended amount of your chosen compound feed and top with a balancer to maintain the overall nutritional balance.

Fed by the mug, rather than the scoop, full, balancers are hugely versatile and, contrary to popular opinion, do not put

Balancing the Diet

on weight as they supply few or no calories. They do however contain a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals as well as quality protein, including essential amino acids, and very often a digestive enhancer, like a yeast culture, to promote gut efficiency. By adding a balancer to a previously unbalanced diet, overall condition, including that of the hooves and coat, as well as muscle tone and energy levels,

A fully balanced diet, supplying all the nutrients a horse needs at the right levels to suit workload and body condition, is, in theory, easily achieved by feeding the recommended amount of the right compound feed alongside forage. Where this doesn’t achieve the desired result, because it provides too many, or too few, calories, the customer must be advised to

“many horse owners tend to be very bad at evaluating the amount and type of work their horse is undertaking”

equine nutrition

Like pharmacists in high street chemists, retailers can offer advice on health, welfare and nutrition

“Research undertaken by Dodson & Horrell has shown that forage alone will not supply a horse with optimum levels of essential vitamins and minerals” are often improved because the horse is no longer missing out.

For the really good-doer, who may often have to do without hard feed, Lo-Calorie balancers are perfect for providing essential nutrients for a balanced diet but without the carbohydrate or calories associated with a conventional compound feed.

They can be fed on its own, alongside forage, or with a handful of low calorie chaff to make more of a meal.

Stuart Attwood, says that we should stop ‘compartmentalising’ topics and examine them more holistically.

“Equine retailers are in a unique position,” he says. “They are the inter-face between the manufacturer and the owner/ rider and, like pharmacists in high street chemists, could offer advice on health, welfare and nutrition, assuming they are sufficiently well informed and competent to do so. This aspect of service delivery could put them at an advantage when it comes to retaining customers – as well as being good for their bottom line.”

“In this issue of Equestrian Business there are features examining rider safety, equine nutrition and laminitis. These subjects are all interrelated – however, many retailers and

owners perceive them as standalone subjects, distinct from each other. In fact, they form a sort of giant jigsaw.”

“Think about it: if only retailers explained these interrelations and provided advice to customers in this way, the ability to crosssell products and provide good quality advice would move equine management on several steps.

Having a horse that is fed the correct balance of nutrients and minerals for the breed and work would favourably impact on ‘behaviour’ and ‘manners’ and encourage the horse to carry the rider safely and calmly. Think again: correct feeding also has a major impact on leg/hoof care because hoof, muscle and tissue care starts in the gut. It makes sense to discuss with customers the different options of feed available - as well as what they contain. This in turn would have an impact on the understanding of conditions such as laminitis.”

“Let us stop ‘separating’! Let us encourage holism!”

Nutritional considerations maintenance or light work

Sarah Kearney, Dodson & Horrell, Nutritional Advisor offers some specific advice to pass on

to customers.

The diet of horses and ponies in a lower level of work will be made up almost entirely of forage (grass and hay). Forage not only contributes to the overall energy and nutrient content of a horse’s ration but also helps to maintain digestive health through a physical effect on the movement of food through the gut, retention of fluid in the digestive tract and a protective effect on the microbial population within the hindgut. As a rule, a horse should receive at least 2% of their bodyweight in forage daily in order to maintain healthy gut motility, for example a 500kg horse requires 10kg forage per day.

It surprises many people how much work a horse can do based on energy received from a forage diet of grass and hay balanced with vitamins and minerals.

Research undertaken by Dodson & Horrell has shown that forage alone will not supply a horse with optimum levels of essential vitamins and minerals, therefore even if at maintenance a horse does require their diet to be ‘topped-up’ using a balancer or tasty vitamin packed treat.

If a horse does require additional hard feed in order to maintain bodyweight, feeding a low starch, high fibre diet is recommended.

If a horse has any clinical problems or is a good doer in a lower work level it can be beneficial to have his forage analysed. It is important that total forage intake is not restricted if a horse needs to be on a low calorie diet as this can lead to gastrointestinal disturbances such as gastric ulcers and colic. Instead recommend soaking hay for 12 hours in lukewarm water to reduce the calorie and sugar content.

Stuart Attwood Stuart Attwood has been a lecturer at a number of the UK’s best performing equine colleges in a wide range of subjects at higher education level. However, he always saw each topic as linked to others in the curriculum and taught them as such. His last role was to head up the equine higher education provision at Hadlow College where he was instrumental in writing the unique BSc (Hons) Equine Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation programme in addition to others in the portfolio.

May 2016 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Equestrian 35 Business

equine nutrition

Pick of the products

Feeds for Leisure Riding

Fuelled by Fibre

Alfalfa-mazing

A diet fuelled by slow release energy from fibre, combined with regular exercise and training helps to keep a horse in good heath for relaxed leisure riding.

Part of the Barley & Molasses Free range, Calm & Condition is soaked feeds that’s high in fibre, low in sugar and starch and contains linseed and soya oils, as well as vitamins and minerals for a balanced diet that promotes great condition.

The Emerald Green Feeds Alfalfa-mazing chop is excellent for bulking out a feed therefore extending the eating process, encouraging saliva production to help with digestion and also keeps acid levels down in the horse’s gut. This means that the horse’s teeth are put to use helping to keep them flat so they can grind their feed down properly. One particular element of the Alfalfa-mazing chop is that it contains both the stalk and the leaves of the plant, meaning the higher nutritional quality of the leaf are included with the feed as well as the fibrous stalk.

www.allenandpage.com

High Fibre HorseHage

www.emeraldgreenfeeds.co.uk

Pure Easy

High Fibre HorseHage is made from a selected mix of grasses that are high in fibre and low in protein and energy levels. Being lower in sugar than a typical hay sample, High Fibre HorseHage carries the Hoof Kind logo to show that it is safe to feed to laminitics and good doers.

It is suitable for riding club horses and ponies, native ponies, veterans and those that are resting, convalescing or laminitic. HorseHage does not contain any chemical additives and has BETA NOPS certification.

www.horsehage.co.uk

Keep Calm with Baileys Baileys Keep Calm is a high fibre nonheating feed for horses at rest or in up to moderate work. It contains Speedi-Beet, which provides highly digestible superfibres in a fully balanced low starch (7%), low sugar (4.5%) feed. Designed to soak to a tasty mash in just 10 minutes, Keep Calm is barley-free, with linseed for a shiny coat, while extracts of flavours of essential oils give it an irresistible aroma. Keep Calm is ideal for those looking to control starch and/or sugar intake and is even suitable for those prone to laminitis. Formulated to maintain condition whilst helping encourage a calm temperament, Keep Calm contains quality protein, to support muscle tone, and a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals, including calcium and magnesium.

www.baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk 36 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

A low energy feed developed for horses and ponies who are in little or light work. Pure Easy supplies everything required in a convenient all-inone feed; Perfect for the leisure horse or pony. The feed includes the Pure Feed Balancer pellet to supply optimum levels of vitamins and minerals, as well as ProFeed® and Brewers Yeast to ensure there are excellent conditions for hind gut digestion.

Pure Easy is suitable for horses and ponies at risk or prone to laminitis and promotes all round positive behavior.

www.thepurefeedcompany.com

AntiLam Horseheath AntiLam was formulated in 1999 to provide a safe cereal-free long-fibre mix, with live yeast & minimal starch & sugar, to minimise the risk of digestive upsets such as laminitis colic & The yellow flakes are soya: scour. Mothers can give virtually starch-free this mix to their daughters to feed their ponies, so neither get killed! Some top level dressage riders use it as their base feed, e.g. Beverley Brightman: “I use AntiLam as my main base feed, adding to it as required to suit individual horses’ needs. It particularly suits several horses that are prone to tummy upsets. They take a long time to eat it, which helps keep them occupied.”

www.gravenhorse.co.uk

Coaching in Bavaria offers 2016 • self driving tours with pairs, four- and five-in-hands on original carriages through beautiful Bavarian countryside

• combine the challenge of driving shooting breaks with excellent food and wine in Tuscany, travelling from castle to castle and from winery to winery

• beginner’s and advanced courses in traditional driving outside the ring and the • well trained guest turnouts always indoor school welcome to join our tours • road-coach journeys from 4 - 14 days all over Europe

Ask for our colour brochure for more details!

Andreas Nemitz, Kerschlach 6, D-82396 Paehl, Germany Telephone: 0049 8808 386 Fax: 0049 8808 1349 Website: www.coaching-in-bavaria.de Email: info@coaching-in-bavaria.de

May 2016 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Equestrian 37 Business

product watch Alice Reins East empty A unique riding aid for disabled riders and those water who have poor grip due to trough

arthritis, carpal tunnel and similar. The reins have three sewn loops on both reins and are fully adjustable. Available in 3 widths and 4 lengths they are handmade to order from excellent quality English leather. There are different designs to suit all needs and can be tailor made to specific customer requirements.

www.alice-reins.co.uk

The WT19 – water trough 19 litres, is the latest in Paxton’s WT range.

Designed to attach to a wall without the need for any brackets, the trough has an easy to access service box with a ½” ballcock with left or right fitting which works off the mains or header tank.

The first thing you notice about the WT19 is the large blue drain bung right at the front; the bung simply screws in or out and will completely empty the trough in less than 40 seconds, making it very easy to keep it clean.

www.paxtonagri.com

5 Piece Grooming Set Great individual and fun design as well as everything needed to ensure a horse/pony looks in tip top condition. These funky 5 piece grooming kit from the German Company HKM Sports come in dots varicoloured, zebra print and flowers varicoloured designs. The set includes a dandy brush, body brush and a face brush as well as hoof pick and a mane and tail comb.

Interchangeable Boots Makebe Temple boots are a new, original and innovative design with interchangeable central coloured inserts which make them just that little bit different. Available in black or brown in medium and large, the central coloured inserts are available in 9 colourways and can be bought separately.

Boasting maximum protection, ventilation, soft breathable neoprene lining, Lycra edging inside and elastic, adjustable straps, Makebe seem to have thought of everything.

www.hkm-sports.com

www.makebe.it

Prime 3L Rain Jacket some like it hot!

Made in a unique 3-layer Equtex fabric, combining full-stretch fabric with a high performance waterproof (10 000mm) and breathable (10 000 g/mm2/24h) membrane, the shell fabric of the jacket is has an ecofriendly fluorocarbonfree water-repellent treatment. It has pre-shaped sleeves and ergonomically cut-lines to enhance mobility and create a light and smooth jacket.

The jacket combines technology and design, with carefully chosen details to customize it for riding.

www.stierna.com 38 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

The Fynalite Horse Washer System uses the proven Eccotemp L5 Portable Tankless Water Heater to provide instant hot water. It’s fully portable for outdoor use and is perfect for the yard. The system comes complete with 5 metre of rugged commercial hose, spray gun and fittings.

The simple controls provide fast and reliable flow of hot water – it simply heats as it flows. The heater runs off a 13 kilo Butane bottle (not supplied) and without the need for an electrical connection.

www.fynalite.co.uk

product watch Curzon Classics UK retailers can now get their hands on a range of classic Tattersall shirts. Made in Spain from the finest Spanish and Portuguese cloths, Curzon Classic shirts offer a classic cut with button-down collar, placket front, chest pocket and personalised buttons. The premium range also features needlecord inserts on the collar stand, yoke and inner cuffs plus an embroidered logo on the yoke. The look may be completed with a lambswool country tie.

www.curzon.es

Equine Fusion

Equipe goes cross country

Norwegian company Equine Fusion has developed a new type of hoof boot – a flexible, light and durable jogging shoe that protect the horse’s hooves from shock, wear and unnatural pressure. The key features are to give the horse comfort, through a flexible shoe that works with the hoof giving support, dampening and grip. This promotes the natural function of the hoof and increases balance and stability.

Equipe has lanched a new EKClass saddle specifically designed for cross country riding. Developed as part of the E-Carbon range, the new EKClass has inherited all the qualities of traditional Italian craftsmanship along with the revolutionary carbon fibre saddle tree. This means it’s not only highly technical, but also extremely lightweight and beautiful to boot! Made of high quality Italian leather, the saddle adheres to Equipe’s commitment regarding attention to detail, innovative design, comfort and tailoring.

www.eqfu.no

Rhinegold’s new range

www.zebraproducts.co.uk/equipe

Minkeys Tweed Minkeys Tweed supplies and makes bespoke tweed coats and accessories for dogs. The company’s beautiful tweed dog coats are made to order, in a size and choice of tweed to suit, from Chihuahuas to Great Danes and particularly specialising in greyhound, sighthounds and lurchers. A range of luxury tweed dog beds and blanket to match, tweed collars and matching leather leads are also available as well as a luxury tweed harnesses in a range of sizes.

Rhinegold has launched an exciting new range of high quality and affordable products for both horse and rider. A family run business with over 15 years’ experience in the design and production of equestrian products, all products have been trialled and tested on their own horses to ensure they offer only the best in terms of quality, design and comfort. From clothing, accessories, and footwear to leatherwork and horsewear, each product has gone through a careful design process and has been produced using the highest

www.rhinegold.eu

www.minkeystweed.com

May 2016 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Equestrian 39 Business

SPRING CLEANING QUIP CLEAN

All the best ingredients are found in nature For use in all stabling areas, rubber matting, tools & equipment, feed bowls & even your horses bit.

Makes light work of even heavily soiled areas.

Can also be used on patios & bird feeders to.

Available in 1lt, 5lt & 20lt.

DEFENCE 7

A total biocide against viruses, bacteria & fungi.

Formulated for use in all equine housing, including stables, rubber matting Dilute between 1:100 & 1:300* (*depending on virus/disease)

He custom lp your ers to k e yards c ep their lean

www.animal-health.co.uk 01787 476400 40 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

That’s why all 21 of our grooming and skin-care products are plant-based.

Give your customers a chemical-free choice without the organic price tag.

To become a stockist contact sales@safecare-equine.com

www.safecare-equine.com

Summer Ailments

Tackling Summer Ailments Summertime isn’t much fun for horses that suffer sweet itch, sunburn, ‘ailments’ and ‘allergies’, repeated insect bites and other unpleasant conditions. Like some humans, some horses seem to attract more than their fair share of ‘nasties’ and – as with all problems – prevention is infinitely better than cure.

W

e all know what it’s like to be bitten by an insect that sets off a reaction that causes us to scratch – and scratch – and scratch – even though we know it is the last thing we should be doing.

Generally speaking, we can apply lotions that quickly soothe the affected area - and pharmacists are generally very good about providing advice concerning antihistamines and other medications thus usually making a trip to the doctor’s surgery unnecessary.

Horses that suffer sweet itch - caused by a bite by the Culicoides midge don’t have our ability to understand

Fly bites and wasp stings can also be a nuisance and cause intense itchiness

what is happening and they can become frantic; they may roll violently, rub against fences and stables and other hard surfaces - and even bite and chew the affected areas. The horse’s behaviour may change and a horse that is normally sweettempered may be irritable and difficult to handle. In severe cases – when management controls are applied ineffectively or too late – the horse may suffer considerable hair loss and develop lesions and weeping sores. In the latter cases it is imperative to prevent the affected areas becoming infected and veterinary intervention may be necessary.

Retailer’s role

The retailer has a very important part to play in helping the owner to manage a horse afflicted by sweet itch; advice has to commence with recognition that the midges are at their worst at dawn and dusk – their preferred feed times. Stabling the horse – with doors and windows closed – can help and consideration should also be given to installing midge screens.

Horse owners are often confused by the plethora of off-the-shelf products on the market to alleviate sweet itch and they are dependent on the retailer’s ability to provide professional up-to-date advice. Some retailers also stock specifically selected insect repellents and sprays that can help to control the stable environment – and there have been countless reports that adding garlic and other

strong-smelling dietary supplements to the horse’s feed can deter the midges from biting.

Manufacturers of horse-clothing are also producing innovative rug designs, masks and hoods which help to restrict the tiny midges access to some of the vulnerable parts of the horse’s body.

Of course, sweet itch isn’t the only summer ‘nasty’ – sunburn is also prevalent. Most of us have suffered sunburn at one time or another – not too surprising considering the skin is the largest organ of the body – and it is painful, debilitating – and can wreck a long-awaited holiday in the sun. We can suffer sunburn in virtually any part of our body – horses are most susceptible in any non-pigmented, pink-skinned areas of their body such as the muzzle, around the eyes – and the heels – the latter are often overlooked or dismissed.

culicoides midge

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Equestrian 41 Business

summer ailments “a horse that is normally sweet-tempered may be irritable and difficult to handle” We are well aware that we can suffer sunburn even in the winter months – small babies and young children are especially vulnerable.

Possibly relating to foreign holidays taken in hot, sunny countries, the incidence of skin cancers has risen dramatically.

Squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer in horses, is also related to sun exposure and generally occurs around the anus, genitalia, eyes/eye lids, the mouth/muzzle and other areas of un-pigmented skin. Generally speaking, sunburn in horses is limited to discomfort, redness and peeling – however, repeated sunburn damage can result in keratosis (thickening and scaling of the skin surface) which can lead to squamous cell cancer.

Grey, ‘white’, coloured, Palomino, chestnut and darker coloured horses with a lot of white markings are particularly susceptible to sunburn.

Management might include stabling the horse during the day and turning the animal out in the evening until early the following morning. Several proprietary sunscreens and sun blocks for horses are now available although many owners continue to use products designed for humans with reportedly good results.

There is no point in panicking but everyone in the equestrian industry needs to be aware that we may be forced to deal with new diseases as a result of climate change. Vector (insect) spread diseases such

Dr Becky Lees BVSc Cert AVP (EM) MRCVS Becky is an experienced equine vet who works as Veterinary Technical Manager for Nettex. Before joining Nettex Becky spent 10 years working in specialist equine practices and has a post graduate qualification in equine medicine.

She also enjoys dressage and has two horses and two Shetland ponies of her own.

42 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Recommend using a fly rug with hood and mask to cover all of the areas of the horse susceptible to bites

as West Nile Disease (spread by mosquitos) is on the move as is Pigeon Fever (causes deep muscle abscesses) is another.

These are just two of the ‘new’ diseases that might reach our shores before very long.

A vet’s view

Now is the perfect time to start thinking about how to advise your customers about summer skin ailments, as early action is by the far the best way to minimise their impact.

In the UK it is thought that over 50,000 horses suffer from summer skin-related problems and conditions. There are a number of causes of these

conditions, such as sweet itch, allergies, bites, stings, minor wounds and sunburn.

Sweet Itch

Sweet itch is an allergy to bites of the Culicoides midge and is the most common summer skin allergy. When a horse with sweet itch is bitten by a midge, the horse’s immune system reacts to a protein in the midge’s saliva which causes the immune system to over-react and attack its own cells which leads to the extreme allergic reaction of intense itchiness that these horses suffer.

Sweet itch affects 3% of horses, with some breeds, such as Icelandic, Shire, Welsh and Cob types being more prone to the condition. Most horses become affected after 4-5 years of age and the condition worsens with advancing age.

Sweet itch is notoriously difficult to manage. There is no cure for sweet itch and once a horse develops sweet itch it will recur every summer. A combined approach is needed in order to prevent horses with sweet itch showing symptoms.

Recommend these actions to help prevent the itch, scratch, rub cycle:

1.Decrease Exposure to Insects: ❚ Recommend using a fly rug with hood and mask to cover all of the areas of the horse susceptible to bites ❚ Advise moving the horse away from standing water and boggy land as midges like to breed on wet land and near water sources.

Stabling at dawn and dusk can also be helpful as midges generally feed most at these times ❚ A helpful recommendation for horses that have particular problem areas is to apply a salve to these locations as midges aren’t able to bite through salves 2.Insect Repellents: ❚ Advise choosing a long lasting insect repellent. DEET based repellents are particularly highly effective 3.Stopping the Itching: ❚ If a horse suffering from sweet itch has been badly attacked by midges and is extremely itchy then veterinary advice should be sought as prescription medication may be necessary.

Bites can become infected after horses rub them so it is important for horse owners to speak to their vet if their horse has had a severe reaction

ESTABLISHED 1990

Repair and protect Nail Hole Damage Repair

Hoof Hardener

Hoof Putty

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www.keratex.com • 01373 827649 For advice call 01373 827649 or email info@keratex.com All emails are answered within one working day.

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Equestrian 43 Business

summer ailments

In the UK it is thought that over 50,000 horses suffer from summer skin-related problems

“horses are most susceptible in any non-pigmented, pink-skinned areas of their body”

❚ For more mildly affected horses soothing salves or creams are an excellent recommendation as they can help to relieve the itching, help prevent new bites and promote hair regrowth.

Salves containing Neem oil are particularly effective. They are best started early in the year to prevent the itch, scratch, rub cycle starting

such as the muzzle and around the eyes. Recommend using sunblock or a fly mask that protects against UV rays. If sunburn is very severe veterinary attention should be advised as other serious conditions such as liver disease can initially present as severe sunburn.

4.Maintaining healthy skin: ❚ Recent research in Canada has shown that supplementing the diets of sweet itch horses with Omega-3 Fatty Acids reduced horses’ skin reactions to midge bites. Linseed Oil is an excellent recommendation as it contains high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids

Food allergies commonly cause hives over the body as well as itchiness, but occasionally affected horses can just be itchy.

They are difficult to diagnose and the horse owner needs to contact their own vet.

Contact allergies can make horses extremely itchy, but are usually limited to where the allergen has touched the horse.

Again veterinary attention should be advised.

Sunburn Sunburn is extremely common on pink skinned, hairless areas

44 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Food & Contact Allergies

Stings & Bites

Occasionally horses will roll in a nettle patch and get a very nasty itchy reaction. Fly bites and wasp stings can also be a nuisance and cause intense itchiness, especially if there were multiple bites/stings.

These all usually resolve quickly and can benefit from cold hosing and soothing salves or creams, but veterinary attention should be advised if a horse suffers a severe reaction.

of water and then a wound gel or cream applied. Larger wounds or those over an important structure, such as a joint require attention from a vet.

Cuts & Scrapes

During the spring and summer horses are turned out and ridden for longer periods, which unfortunately means that they have more opportunities to injure themselves. Minor cuts and scrapes should be cleaned with a chlorhexidine based skin cleanser diluted with the correct amount

Larger wounds should always be seen by a vet.

Stock both products and ease your customers’ fly problems in and out of the stable with…

Feed-Thru Fly Control Breaks the Fly Life Cycle. Prevents the Development of Stable Flies and House Flies in the Manure of Treated Horses. Highly Palatable Feed Additive.

For our complete range see our website www.lesliesutcliffe.com LS Sales (Farnam) Ltd. Bloxham Mill, Oxon, England, OX15 4FF T: +44 (0) 1608 683855 E: orders@lesliesutcliffe.com May 2016 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Equestrian 45 Business

summer ailments

Pick of the products Topical skincare Topical Antiseptic Skincare Aniwell is a NZ company that produces a range of topical skincare products for all animals, specifically for sun and wound protection. FiltaBac and FiltaClear are both total sun-blocking, reflective, antibacterial white creams. FiltaBac has an SPF of 30+, a UVA/UVB factor for maximum protection.

FiltaClear® can be rubbed in to ‘near clear’ and still has an SPF of 25+, UVA/UVB for superior protection. Both creams are ideal for protecting white noses/faces, clipped fetlocks from sun or dew burn.

www.aniwell-uk.com

Leucillin is a fast acting, effective and reliable first aid and skin management tool. Leucillin kills germs that can cause infection, irritation, dry, itchy, flaky or smelly problematic skin, it provides a powerful solution to combat all types of infection.

Leucillin quickly relieves, soothes and calms helping restore good skin and coat condition.

www.leucillin.co.uk

Time tested and proven

Cost effective sun care

Developed in 1938 Original M-T-G, and New MTG plus, is veterinarian recommended as the only solution needed for a variety of bacterial and fungal skin problems. M-T-G treats skin problems quickly and easily with results seen as soon as a day after the very first application. It formulated to eliminate the causative agent creating the skin problems so it treats at the source to dry up and heal the affected area. Its special ingredients also condition the skin and hair around the problem area which promotes both healthy skin and hair regrowth.

www.shapleys.com

Hooflex Frog and Sole Care Conditions such as thrush can affect performance and mean lost days riding, so caring for horses’ feet is paramount to their wellbeing. Absorbine Hooflex Frog & Sole Care helps soothe the hoof and eliminates odours caused by bacteria and fungi. The liquid formula penetrates the frog and sole tissue and will not sting, stain, or dry the hoof. Hooflex Frog and Sole Care is easily applied with the special squeeze applicator which is speciallydesigned to reach deep into the frog.

www.absorbine.co.uk

Treating Wounds with Vetalintex Vetalintex Sterile Wound Hydrogel from Robinson Animal Healthcare is a clear, viscose starch based hydrogel dressing, great for any firstaid kit. Easy to apply, with an excellent gentle cleansing action, it has excellent donation and absorption properties which have been found to maintain optimum hydration levels, helping to keep the wound moist and promote healing. Supplied in a sterile tube for optimum infection control, this innovative

www.robinsonhealthcare.com 46 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Equus Health Sun Off is ideal for horse and ponies who suffer from sunburn and harmful UV rays. Sun Off contains a lightly concentrated sun filter to protect delicate, light skin pigmentation. One application lasts for 2-3 days offering great value for money. For more information or to find your nearest stockist go online.

www.equushealth.org.uk

Magic Gel Magic gel provides intensive horses care. It detangles and conditions the mane and tail, ensuring a healthy gloss, making it easier to comb.

It can be used on dry or wet hair. The magic bit comes from it forming an invisible and lasting protective layer which keeps the mane and tail water repellent and clean for weeks. An absolute must for every grooming kit.

www.hkm-sports.com

NEW MESH COOLER RUG The New Back on Track Mesh Cooler Rug is a versatile rug that can be used all year round, inspired by the hugely popular Back on Track Mesh Rug. This rug is ideal during transport and after training and competition to enhance recovery. It may also be used under other rugs during colder months. The Back on Track Mesh Cooler Rug is made of revolutionary Welltex fabric which is infused with ceramic particles. These ceramic particles cause long wave infra-red heat to radiate back towards the body.

www.backontrack.com

Websites

Latest Update makes Mobile-Friendly Sites More Important Google has recently announced that it will be unveiling an update in May that will amplify its mobile-ranking signal in a bid to aid users to find more relevant, and mobile-friendly sites. However, as Darryl Britton from WiserWeb explains, Google wasn’t forthcoming about the exact impact it will have in the world of SEO.

M

obile-friendly sites have been gaining traction in the online world ever since Google made changes to its algorithm in 2014 which in effect promoted sites that were labelled as ‘mobile-friendly,’ which effectively means that the website can be navigated on a mobile device with very little difficulty. So this means that the webpage should not contain flash (as many mobile devices do not support it) and text should be presented in an easy-to-read way that doesn’t require pinching or zooming.

The mobile-friendly label was soon instilled as a ranking factor, which means that any websites deemed as not mobile-friendly would rank lower than their

mobile-friendly counterparts.

In fact, the algorithm update has such an impact on the industry, that it gained the name ‘Mobilegeddon.’

So what does the latest update from Google hope to achieve?

Well, the information surrounding the update is somewhat scarce, but it does enforce one message: having a mobile-friendly website is more important than ever.

Why Is There So Much Focus on Mobile Sites?

Just as technology has evolved, so has the way we use it. When

the Internet was first unleashed, the downloading of a webpage often took a number of wires as well as a great deal of patience.

Internet users in the current day can not only download information wirelessly at an astonishing rate, but they can also do it from a number of different devices.

The introduction of touchscreen smartphones and tablets means that the way people peruse the web has changed somewhat dramatically. Operating systems such as Android and iOS were offering a mobile platform that could equally match the operating system found on any home computer.

As such, many webmasters saw the potential of these operating systems, as stated to ensure that their website was built for visitors deriving from these platforms.

This often meant that the structure of the website would adapt to a user’s device and operating system, meaning that the navigation was only done via the touch screen.

As smartphones become commonplace in the modern world, a series of apps and mobile-friendly sites were unveiled which made navigating the web a much easier endeavour while mobile.

The focus of mobile browsing has been adopted into modern culture, with a series of people uploading pics to social media while mobile, as well as checking into their favourite businesses.

Businesses are also able to promote themselves to potential customers in the area, by offering special discounts and offers to anyone within the locality.

Of course, there is also the fact that Google will want to present websites that are relevant and mobile-friendly, to help better serve advertisers who use the Google platform to help expand their business.

What Does the

Update in May Actually Entail?

Google is holding back on this one, other than stating that mobile-friendly websites are a must. But Google has also been fixated on offering its visitors webpages that load quickly, and has introduced AMP (Accelerated Mobile Page) in the past, which helps sites load much faster, akin to Facebook’s Instant Articles feature.

As such, it can be expected that AMP will be introduced as another factor in Google’s mobile ranking algorithm, but this can only be speculated until the update is actually released.

How Can I Check My Website is Mobile-Friendly?

Evidently, some website owners may be concerned that their website may not meet the criteria set out by Google and therefore fall in ranking. However, Google does offer tools that can help webmasters ensure that their website is mobile-friendly.

Using Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test feature can help you determine as to whether you need to make any changes.

There are also a series of guides presented by Google itself that will aid you in customising your website software by offering a series of checklists, as well as some questions and answers.

While many could deem such updates as frustrating, it actually instils confidence in users who use the search engine on a daily basis, as they know they will only be presented with rich content and responsive websites, not a series of keyword-stuffed websites that have haunted the Google results in the past, and are part of the reason why such powerful algorithm updates were put in place in the first instance.

If you would like to know more, you can contact Darryl on +44 (0)1953 852939 Email: darryl@wiserweb.co.uk or view www.wiserweb.co.uk/equestrian

May 2016 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Equestrian 47 Business

xxxxxxx

48 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

business matters

Ticking boxes Mark Lumsdon-Taylor ❚ Director of Finance and Resources, the Hadlow Group He attended Keele University where he read Law and Economics. ❚ On leaving, he joined Macintyre Hudson a leading London accountancy firm undertook an ACA training contract and quickly rose to become a director of audit. ❚ Joined Hadlow College with an initial brief as a ‘troubleshooter’ to design and implement fiscal recovery and to effect change within the College’s central services. ❚ Appointed Director of Finance & Resources in 2004 after extensive work involving further recovery and reorganisation of the college’s activities, (Hadlow is rated Outstanding by Ofsted) ❚ Awarded Accountancy Age UK Finance Director of the Year (Public Sector) in 2007, was a runner up in 2010 and was shortlisted for the 2013 Award. In 2008, Hadlow College was awarded the title ‘KEIBA Large Company of the Year’ for its performance in business.

Awarded the Business Finance Awards 2014 title ‘UK Finance Director of the Year Public Sector and Voluntary’. ❚ Shortlisted for the Institute of Directors’ London and the South East Young Director of the Year Award 2014 and the Institute of Directors’ London and the South East Chairman’s Award for Leadership in Corporate Responsibility 2014.

Today we are increasingly driven – I use that word advisedly rather than ‘led’ - to comply with rules, regulations, policy, targets, rulings, directives, mandates, commands, statutes, restrictions, interventions, controls, procedures, decrees, jurisdiction…and more, all along similar lines.

They emanate from the EU, central government and local government. They are instigated by corporations, businesses, associations, bodies, groups, clubs, unions, SMEs - and all the rest. They proliferate in the public and private sectors – and even in the not-for-profit.

Are they all understood? Are all of them necessary? Do they all produce significantly positive results that add value – economically and socially?

Well the answer you hope for and expect is probably ‘No’ - and I believe you would be right! We are totally inundated with gobbledegook that is often imposed without an application of common-sense let alone lateral thinking – and then it is rarely withdrawn, modified or updated. That would be perceived as ‘weakness’ – anyway – responsive action would demand common-sense, something of which there is a sad shortage.

Unnecessary intervention – or intervention that is outdated – is destructive in just about every way. It reduces motivation. It kills inventiveness. It clouds team spirit. It results in a feeling of ‘unworthiness’. It smothers innovation and invention. It fails to stimulate. It turns what could be a challenging and thought-provoking job or area of business into something that is frustrating, depressing, dull, unexciting, self-defeating and – in many cases – upsetting.

At the same time, it encourages the belief that ‘ticking the box’ is the final solution and all that matters – no matter if it is achieved to the detriment of integrity and the collapse of ethical standards. It leads to corrupt practices and the belief that ‘anything goes’.

I have many times commented how often small industries and small businesses are better at many things than their larger

counterparts. They are more hands-on, more inclined to operate open-door policies that encourage suggestions from staff at all levels, more aware that it is often the people at the coalface who really have the answers. Small businesses are generally less arrogant and thus less inclined to overlook, patronise and dismiss. And before representatives of ‘big business’ write to the editor complaining my comments are unjustified, let me hasten to say that many, many multinationals contrive to run their business inclusively in ways that allow everyone to make a full and positive contribution. In the final analysis, it all relates to management, understanding and leadership – and to see the wood for the trees.

Of course, small businesses rarely have the clout enjoyed by the large companies when it comes to fighting unfair

access to business and professional development events that include conferences, seminars, and roundtable discussions. It increases opportunities for networking and making new contacts. It is usually the first step towards getting more involved in relation to the problem-recognition and problem-solving – that results in sensible policy-making and

“small industries and small businesses are better at many things than their larger counterparts” legislation requiring a crusade to get rid of the aforementioned gobbledygook. But businesses in the equestrian industry, no matter what their size, are fortunate to be able to join one of the excellent associations or societies that undertake sterling work on their behalf. BETA, the Society of Master Saddlers, the British Horse Society – and many, many more. These bodies forge policies and strategies that benefit all members and they are pretty good – arguably better than the average - at monitoring what is going on and the changes and developments needed to progress their specific section of the equestrian industry.

Membership of a trade or professional body affords

development. In some sectors membership of the relevant professional body is virtually de rigueur in regard to Continuing Professional Development.

Interestingly, CPD is possibly an area in which big business excels simply because it is generally more accessible, more understood and consequently more valued. ‘Communications’ have never in the lifetime of the planet been more available – but that doesn’t mean to say we are good at communicating!

Membership of the relevant organisation or professional body may well be a way of cutting the cackle and getting down to the nitty gritty of what really matters!

So – in effect – we have travelled full circle.

May 2016 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Equestrian 49 Business

What to stock for successful sales....

Coat Care Grooming kits and shampoos are stock essentials but don’t be complacent with this area of the market as there are plenty of opportunities to create further sales by offering the right advice and innovative products.

G

rooming products are often seen as low-priced items by both consumers and retailers, but good profits can still be made out of selling grooming products by making the most of bulk buying from suppliers and profiting from volume of sales.

Customers become creatures of habit and so once they have used a good brand, they will come back for it again. However, customers will only repeat-buy if the product actually brings results, so stocking a proven product that will mean multiple sales over the year makes commercial sense.

However, is is also important to cater for all needs, by stocking a range that supports the needs of all customers. Mid and higher priced items will offer quality and value for money alongside improved profitability and savvy retailers will take advantage when manufacturers and wholesalers offer discounts. Customers who ‘show’ frequently will often choose products from the higher end of the grooming product spectrum such as cordless trimmers and replacement blades. There are very few horses that do not benefit from some trimming to improve their

looks and keep them comfortable during the summer months. This is an area much neglected by many retailers, which offers good profits and repeat business in the form of replacement blades, oils and hygiene sprays.

And don’t forget to widen the net when planning stock – the grooming sector is more than just shampoo and body brushes, with many now considering hoods and coverall rugs as grooming aids, preventing the horse from getting dirty in the first instance.

From hoods and rugs to prevent the horse from getting filthy,

muddy and hairy to shampoos and products to clear grease and scurf, coupled with brushes to keep coat in tip-top condition and finishing with beautifying aids such as make up, show sheens, glosses and hoof oil. Considering the horse as a whole and working through the full grooming process in your head when thinking through stock ensures you will have the full complement of grooming products.

It also pays to be mindful of the season, stocking up with more show sheens and soft bristled body brushes in the summer, with curry combs and trimmers featuring more in the winter.

Over the years the redesign of traditional horse grooming products, and the invention of new and exciting ways to keep horses clean and tidy, have kept the market fresh. Grooming tools are now being designed to offer greater comfort for users – manufacturers understand that people want to enjoy grooming their horses and by offering tools which make the experience easier and more effective can only be a positive. In recent years, science has entered into the ring. More specifically bio-security has become a hot topic and the way forward. Customers are quickly becoming aware that grooming with the right products can actively promote and protect their horse’s health. By investing in grooming kits and tools which are clinically proven to kill a number of troublesome conditions, the consumer is able to take a responsible role in reducing infections being transmitted from horse to horse.

Abbey England

Abbey England

Fiebing’s Blue Frost Whitening Shampoo & Conditioner

Fiebing’s Horse Salon Shampoo & Conditioner

Fiebing’s Blue Frost Whitening Shampoo & Conditioner contains special brightening agents which enhance white and grey hair whilst targeting tough stable and grass stains with ease. Containing aloe vera, Fiebing’s Blue Frost Whitening Shampoo & Conditioner also promotes skin health and removes any residual build-up of fly sprays and environmental pollutants.

This rich, concentrated formulation cleanses hair thoroughly yet gently, drenching the hair with a luxurious, easy-to-rinse lather, removing residual build-up of fly sprays, detanglers, environmental pollutants and hard water minerals. Horse Salon contains two coat conditioners and aloe as a skin conditioner. These ingredients will protect the horse’s coat and skin from damage caused by combing, drying and plaiting while giving the horse a show-quality look.

Sizes: 473ml RRP: £12.95

Sizes: 946ml RRP: £13.99

50 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Let’s Talk Products Abbey England

Absorbine

Fiebing’s Satin Sheen

ShowSheen 2 in 1 Shampoo and Conditioner

Fiebing’s Satin Sheen keeps manes and tails tangle free and produces a healthy sheen and soft coat that repels dirt and dust. Non-toxic and safe for use on even sensitive horses, Satin Sheen guarantees a professional ‘show ring’ look. It comes in a spray bottle, which states that is ‘moisturizes, detangles, softens and shines the coat, mane and tail’.

Absorbine ShowSheen 2 in 1 Shampoo and Conditioner contains Pro-Vitamins to help nourish the skin and strengthen hair.

It deep cleans and conditions in one step to leave hair soft, strong and manageable without stripping natural oils. ShowSheen 2 in 1 Shampoo revitalizes and brightens the coat and the handy safety lid prevents spillages.

Sizes: 946ml RRP: £12.95

Sizes: 591ml RRP: £9.79

Animology

Animology

Mane Tamed De-Tangle Serum

Muck Out Shampoo and Conditioner

Mane Tamed is a leave in product that de-tangles mane and tail hair and leaves it in great condition. The advanced, vitamin enriched formulation contains conditioners and spf/uva filters to help provide long term protection and care for the hair, leaving it with a high gloss finish. It was voted Best New Grooming Product 2015.

‘The only shampoo you will ever need, regardless of the size, colour, breed and purpose of your horse,’ says Animology. The complex formulation blends silk and wheat proteins with vitamins and conditioners, to help deliver exceptional levels of care and protection to the skin and hair, including the mane and tail, maximizing condition and lustre.

Sizes: 200ml RRP: £9.99

Sizes: 750ml RRP: £9.99

Animology

Aqueos Care Ltd

Patch Work Stain Remover

Anti-Bacterial Shampoo

Created with experts to deliver the very best results when it comes to the removal of stubborn stains, Animology Patch Work helps to remove even the most stubborn of stains from a horse’s body, hoof, mane or tail.

With a deep clean, low foam formula it can be rinsed out quickly and efficiently, leaving as little residue as possible and cutting usage time to a minimum.

Anti-Bacterial Shampoo kills bacteria, fungi and viruses while combating itchiness and soothing minor skin irritations.

Its ingredients help to disinfect minor scratches and wounds. It is also gentle on the skin, leaving the coat, mane and tail soft. It is alcohol and phenol free with disinfectant tested to EN1276, EN1650 & EN14476.

Sizes: 200ml RRP: £9.99

Sizes: 1 Litre & 5 Litre RRP: £9.99 & £30.00 May 2016 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Equestrian 51 Business

Let’s Talk Products Battles

Carr & Day & Martin

HySHINE Magic Dazzle Whitening Shampoo

Canter Mane & Tail Conditioner

HySHINE Magic Dazzle Whitening Shampoo is a fast acting shampoo with a whitening enhancing formula to make those white areas dazzle.

According to Battles, ‘not only does it combat yellowing hair, is also has a fusion of avocado, lavender and wheat germ extracts to protect and repair the coat from damage’.

Canter Mane & Tail Conditioner is the original, long-lasting conditioner that reduces hair breakage and makes grooming quick and easy.

Customers simply spray the fine mist over the mane and through the tail for powerful detangling. It can be used on wet or dry hair and gives an immaculate, oil-free shine.

Sizes: 500ml RRP: £6.80

Sizes: 600ml, 1L, 5L RRP: £11.70, £14.50, £55.80

Charles Bentley & Son Ltd

Equimins

Slip-Not Deluxe Microban Antibacterial Grooming

Dry Clean Grooming

Part of the Slip-Not brand, this new collection has been designed following extensive consumer research and incorporates Microban Silver Shield technology, which is built into the bristles to kill and inhibit the growth of up to 99.99% of bacteria. Microban protection works as soon as bacteria comes into contact with the bristle surface, as the antibacterial technology prevents bacteria from reproducing, so the lifecycle cannot proceed and dies.

Dry Clean is an effective waterless body wash that’s ideal when time is the tight or it’s too cold to wash the horse. It contains natural grain spirit, allantoin and tea tree oil, in addition to other ingredients, and is formulated to remove sweat, grass, stable stains, dirt and grease without the need for water.

Sizes: 10 pieces RRP: £49.99

Sizes: 500ml and 1L trigger spray bottles RRP: £9.95/£17.95

Equimins

Flint’s Yard

Lavender Fresh Wash

Itching?

Repellent

Lavender Fresh Wash can be used to refresh horses after exercise and to help soothe minor cuts and bruising.

It contains pure antibacterial lavender oil to soothe and calm, and coconut to efficiently remove sweat and dirt, but is free from soap, thickeners and detergents. It can be diluted and used to wash a horse down after robust exercise and can also be used in the form supplied to help relieve bruising on legs.

Itching? is an extremely effective, 100% natural, repellent lotion. The advanced formula instantly cools and soothes hot, itchy skin whilst actively repelling flying insects.

It aids in the control of skin conditions such as sweet itch and dries transparent and non-sticky; meaning no build-up or residue.

Specifically designed to be diluted into a spray for maximum coverage, Itching? has a striking shelf presence and favourable mark up.

Sizes: 500ml and 1L bottles RRP: £6.25/£10.75

Sizes: 300ml RRP: £14.95

52 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Let’s Talk Products Flint’s Yard

leovet

Scratching?

Shampoo

No Rub & Bio-Oil

Recently launched after extensive research, Scratching? cools and soothes hot and itchy skin. 100% natural, Scratching? contains Aloe Vera and Margosa which aid in the conditioning of the coat. This 2 in 1 formula can be used as either a shampoo or a non rinse slosh wash. It gently cleanses dead skin and dirt away without stripping the coat of its natural oils. Scratching? is free from Soap, SLS, SLES, Parabens and MIT.

Bio-Skin oil - care for summer coat and skin conditions in horses. Natural ingredients such as pure oils from calendula, carrots and St. John’s Wort help treat summer eczema and eczema related swelling combined with an urge to itch and scratch.

No Rub - actively controls dandruff and prevents mane and tail chafing.

Salicylic acid, the active ingredient from willow bark, serves as an exfolient and renews skin while bio sulphur oil cures dandruff.

Sizes: 300ml RRP: £12

Sizes: 500ml (each) RRP: No Rub: £12.99 Bio-oil: £24.95

leovet

Mark Todd Collection

Shiny White Groom & Shiny White Shampoo

Bright White DeStaining Shampoo

Shiny White Curry Groom easily removes dirt from long hair and coat. Spray directly onto stains to remove them and be left with an enhanced clear white colour. Shiny White Shampoo is a gentle cleansing for coat and mane. Stains vanish and a clear white colour reappears, intensified by a brilliant white effect. Natural proteins from the African moringa tree prevents the accumulation of new dirt particles and stains for up to two days.

Developed especially for greys, this shampoo is formulated to clean and condition white and grey coats gently and effectively without drying or damaging the hair and skin. Creates a lustrous sheen and leaves the coat flat and shining. Ideal for use on white socks or for effective removal of manure and grass stains - the shampoo can be applied neat and rinsed off after one minute if necessary. Contains pure Avocado Oil, Chamomile and concentrated Aloe Vera in a Coconut and Citronella base.

Sizes: 500ml RRP: Groom: £13.99 / Shampoo: £10.99

Sizes: 500ml RRP: £7.75

Mark Todd Collection

Moorland Rider

Competition Silk

Coat Shine Mitt

Pure silk protein combined with herbal oils in this unique product ensures a sleek show shine without that unpleasant slippery silicone build-up. Competition Silk eliminates tangles and knots and conditions each hair for quick and effortless grooming, quarter marking and plaiting. The pH balanced formula can be used on wet or dry manes and tails and restores dirty, coarse, damaged and sun-dry hair to a rich and silky flow.

A clever grooming mitt that wipes away dust, dirt and grease. One side is made using ultra soft microfibre to give the coat a sheen, and the other side incorporates a layer of mesh to remove dirt and stubborn stains. It can be used all over the horse, including more sensitive areas such as the head. To keep it clean and hygienic, the Coat Shine Mitt is machine washable.

Sizes: 500ml RRP: £7.50

Sizes: One size RRP: £2.99 May 2016 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Equestrian 53 Business

Let’s Talk Products Nettex

Nettex

Hi-Shimmer Coat Spray

Everyday Conditioning Shampoo

Nettex Hi-Shimmer Coat Spray gives an outstanding hi-gloss finish, providing unrivalled sparkle under both natural and artificial lighting. Easy to use, it is simply sprayed directly onto the coat or applied with a cloth to significantly reduce grooming time.

It is the choice of champions such as Lynn Russell and Amy Stovold.

Nettex Everyday Conditioning Shampoo is a low foaming, easy rinse conditioning shampoo suitable for daily use on all coat colours and types and its sensitive formula prevents natural oils from being stripped from the coat. The choice of top riders such as Amy Stovold and Lynn Russell and part of the Nettex Grooming range.

Sizes: 300ml RRP: £10.85

Sizes: 1 litre, 5 litre RRP: 1 litre £6.15, 5 litre £26.50

Safe-Care Equine

Safe-Care Equine

Show ‘n’ Shine

Total Body Wash

Customers can now put some shine back into their horse’s life with this ‘leave in’ conditioner. With its unique formulation embracing the natural benefits of sunflower oil, Safe-Care Equine says it gives the coat, mane and tail ‘amazing shine, manageability and even enables the coat to resist dust and dirt for days’. It can also be used with confidence around the saddle and bridle area without fear of slippery coat finish. All Safe-Care Equine products are natural and plant-based. They contain no chemicals and are fully biodegradable.

This fragrance-free wash loosens dirt and gives a deep cleanse right down to the skin. Within minutes it can be rinsed away leaving a horse’s skin and coat smooth and flake free without endless scrubbing and rinsing. ‘Traditional shampoos burn off surface dirt but ours work in reverse by removing the surf at the skin’s surface first,’ says Safe-Care Equine. It is suitable for whole body use – especially for those a little on the sensitive side. Natural and plant-based it is chemical free and fully biodegradable.

Sizes: 750ml, 5 Litre RRP: £9.99 (750ml) / £29.99 (5 Litre)

Sizes: 750ml, 5 Litre RRP: £9.99 (750ml) / £29.99 (5 Litre)

Smart Grooming

NATURAL GOODIES/STOCKSHOPWOLSELEY

Coat Sheen

Lord and lady muck gift pack

A highly effective Coat Sheen this is one of the most popular products within their show prep range giving a fantastic finish but at a very affordable price. It enhances the natural coat shine without leaving any residue and provides a superb all over shine for all types of coats. A fabulous finish for show, competition or everyday use.

Low minimum order, great range of products. Free delivery

Sizes: 500ml RRP: £8.95 54 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Each pack contains a Lord or Lady Muck Body Brush, Dandy Brush, 250ml tube of shampoo and a story booklet. It contains no harsh or abrasive chemicals and contains natural extracts such as tea tree oil, aloe vera and lavender. It is perfectly pH balanced for equine use. Lord and lady Muck grooming brushes are robust child size brushes. The body brush is soft enough to produce a show shine and the dandy brush is tough enough to remove dried mud and grime.

Sizes: one size RRP: £14.95

Let’s Talk Products Stockshop

The Ultimate Hoofpick U.K. A tough precision tool for faster and easier hoof picking that’s guaranteed unbendable and unbreakable. This high grade steel, 40mm thick pick, with ergonomic rubber handle has a patent pending. A wide pick angle facilitatates removing even the hardest packed material from the hoof’s sole. Sizes in adult (yellow) and junior (pink and blue).

contacts: Abbey England

Moorland Rider

+44 (0) 01565 650343

+44 (0)1782 399728

Agrihealth (leovet)

Nettex

www.abbeyengland.com

www.moorlandrider.co.uk

+44 (0)2838 314570

+ 44 (0)1634 257150

www.agrihealth.co.uk

www.nettexequine.com

Animology

Safe-Care Equine Ltd

+44 (0)1772 786864

+44(0)1294 832061

www.animology.co.uk

www.safecare-equine.com

Aqueos Care Ltd (via Battle, Hayward & Bower)

Smart Grooming Ltd + 44(0)1823 681076

www.totallysmart.co.uk

+44 (0)1672 562007

www.aqueos.co.uk Sizes: adult and junior RRP: £14.99

Stockshop Wolseley

+44 (0)1392 460077

www.stockshop.co.uk

+44 (0)1522 529206

Hy-Equestrian.com

Vale Brothers Ltd

Carr & Day & Martin

Wolseley Diva polishing brush

+44 (0)845 500 4040

A unique polishing brush for the ultimate show shine. Soft horsehair bristles around the outside gently lift the dirt and a thick genuine lambswool pad on the inside gives the perfect polish.

Manufactured in Germany, a patented inserted hand strap avoids the use of sharp nails or tacks and the brush back is made of special synthetic material which will not crack.

+44 (0)1509 232757

Sizes: one size RRP: £19.99

Stockshop (L.E.) Ltd

Battles

+ 44 (0)1922 642222

www.kbf99.co.uk

www.carrdaymartin.co.uk

W. F. Young, (Absorbine)

Charles Bentley & Son Ltd

+44 (0)1903 892060

www.bentleybrushware.co.uk

www.absorbine.co.uk

Equimins

Westgate EFI (Mark Todd)

+44 (0)1548 531770

www.equimins.com

+44 (0)1303 872277

www.wefi.co.uk

Flint’s Yard +44 (0)1548 521777

www.flintsyard.com

Coming next month....

Vale Brothers Ltd

KBF99 Dandy Brushes & Body Brush KBF99 Anti-bacteria grooming products are clinically proven to kill bacteria and fungus without the use of chemicals.

Made with the KBF99 additive incorporated, this was tested at Coventry University and effectively killed 99.99% of the bacteria/fungus test culture (Strangles, Ringworm and E.Coli). Customers have also reported excellent results against mud fever, rain scald, scurf and thrush. In addition when used regularly KBF99 grooming products improve bio-security.

Sizes: One size RRP: from £13.90

The range of saddle pads, numnahs and accessories available for horses is constantly expanding and is one of the fastest moving sectors of the market. New designs incorporating enhanced features such as more breathable material and more flexibility makes saddle pads and girths for general exercise or competition even better at protecting horses from strains and sores.

With so much available Equestrian Business showcases the new and the best on the market at the moment, looking at saddle pads, numnahs and saddle accessories.

May 2016 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Equestrian 55 Business

ken lyndon-dykes

Saddle Sense

Look back to the mid-seventies and the choice of saddle designs was - by comparison with today –relatively limited. Nowadays the ranges available include specialist saddles for virtually every discipline and equestrian sport.

Such variation is good news for the horse owner but not so good for the saddlery retailer because it vastly increases the investment needed to offer customers comprehensive choice.

Saddle ‘selection’ Looking back to the seventies again, ‘saddle fitting’ - as we know it now - was virtually non-existent.

Many saddles were sold over the counter and, more often than not, the priority consideration was the rider’s comfort. Buying a saddle from ‘Moss Bros’ – the London store was regarded as seriously elite – involved the client looking at several saddles and deciding which appealed. A member of staff would then carry all those that found favour to a wooden ‘horse’. Aided by the assistant, the client ‘tried’ each saddle in turn and then selected the one he – or she – found the most comfortable. The assistant would then ask some very perfunctory questions about the horse – height, build, and so on. A saddle deemed suitable for the horse would then be selected and, with some wrapping around it to prevent scratches and other damage, it would be placed in one of Moss Bros’s posh bags! Alternatively, ‘Madam’ or ‘Sir’ could elect to have the saddle delivered.

Saddle ‘fitting’ Around that time, I was retailing saddles by mail order – I and most of the saddler trade didn’t know any better. It wasn’t until I was three-day-eventing at an advanced level that I really became aware that even some of the elite horses were very obviously ill-equipped saddle-

56 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

wise. It was then I abandoned mail order and across-thecounter sales and started to advise every client that their horse’s saddle needed to be fitted. Years later the SMS – led by the then president Julia Forsyth who put a lot of time and effort into the initiative introduced its qualification which virtually revolutionised the processes of saddlefitting. At the same time the SMS made certain that horse owners understood the importance –in welfare and success terms – of their horse being equipped with a correctly fitting saddle. Without a doubt – and largely as a result of the SMS’s campaign – British horse owners quickly became the most informed in the world in regard to this vitally important subject.

Saddle ‘sense’ Those were the good days.

Where did it start to go wrong – badly wrong? The internet and social media have a lot to answer for - as do the manufacturers who sell direct to horse owners. As do retailers who are happy to sell acrosscounter. As do people who pass themselves off as SMS qualified saddle fitters (the SMS operates an identity scheme enabling horse owners to check credentials but inevitably a lot of ‘scammers’ get through the net).

As a result of this hotchpotch the industry is becoming what I would term ‘destabilised’ and recognition that every saddle

should be fitted by a qualified saddle fitter is becoming a thing of the past. In some respects, money is at the root of this dilemma – ‘money is the root of all evil’. The reasons why it is fundamentally important for every saddle to be fitted are being cast aside and forgotten – obliterated in the name of ‘getting a bargain’ The fact is that many of the seeming ‘bargains’ are far, far removed from genuine bargains when considered in relation to the sorts of welfare problems that are resulting.

Saddle manufacturers, saddle retailers and qualified saddle fitters will all –ultimately - lose business if the rot isn’t stopped.

It is only by uniting in a positive and structured way that we can begin to re-establish that ‘every saddle should be fitted’, ‘every horse to have its own saddle exclusively’ and ‘the saddle-fit to be checked in line with changes to the horse’s

KEN LYNDON-DYKES ❚ Ex-international level three-day-event rider. ❚ Qualified Society of Master Saddlers’ saddle fitter and a member of the society’s executive committee, ❚ Owns and runs SaddleWorld, one of the largest saddle retailers in the UK. Ken is increasingly in demand as a professional witness and adjudicator in reation to saddlery-related claims and disputes. ❚ He is also well-known as an inspirational and interesting lecturer/speaker. shape. The erosion of ethical professional standards, for whatever reason, will have dire knock-on consequences. Above all, it is the real end users – horses and ponies - that will suffer the most.

The SMS made certain that horse owners understood the importance of their horse being equipped with a correctly fitting saddle

We need recognition of the dire consequences – and we need unity. We need bodies such as BETA, the BHS, the SMS, the Pony Club, British Riding Clubs and the many other groups and associations who recognise the disaster-in-themaking to join us. We must stop the rot before it is too late. I welcome telephone calls (+44 (0)1622 844440) and emails (kenjetjockey@aol.com)

suppliers Directory To advertise in the suppliers directory the minimum requirement is 5 insertions at £20 each.

A sixth insertion is then added free of charge, producing a net cost of just £16.60 each.

Abbey Diagnostics +44 (0)1638 552122 www.abbeydiagnostics.co.uk

Dodson and Horrell +44 (0)1832 737300 www.dodsonandhorrell.com

Fynalite +44 (0)1789 764848 www.fynalite.co.uk

Horseware Ireland +353 42 9389000 www.horseware.com

Merial Animal Health Ltd +44 (0)1279 775858 www.merial.com

Spartan Equestrian Products +44 (0)1474 705065 www.spartanequestrian.com

Abbey Saddlery and Crafts Ltd +44 (0)1565 650343 www.abbeyengland.com

Dog Rocks +44 (0)1628 822 243 www.dogrocks.co.uk

Gain Horse Feeds +44 (0)7912 197000 www.gainhorsefeeds.co.uk

Horslyx +44 (0)16973 32592 www.horslyx.co.uk

Mirrors for Training +44 (0)1902 791207 www.mirrorsfortraining.co.uk

Spoga + Gafa +44 (0)208 6818166 www.spogagafa.com

Acorn Developments +44 (0)1432 276600 www.acorndev.co.uk

Durango +1 740-753-1951 www.DurangoBoot.com

Global Herbs +44 (0)1243 773363 www.globalherbs.co.uk

Hucklesby Associates +44 (0)1362 696309 www.hucklesbys.com

New Equine Wear +44 (0)1172 303700 www.newequinewear.co.uk

Albedo100 UK Ltd +44 (0)113 3955266 www.albedo100.co.uk

Earlswood Supplies +44 (0)8450 171351 www.earlswood-supplies.com

Golly Galoshes +44 (0)7585 557775 www.gollygaloshes.com

Parkgate Equestrian +44 (0)1306 631374 www.parkgateequestrian.co.uk

Eazitools Equestrian +44 (0)1302 746077 www.eazitools.co.uk

Grays of Shenstone +44 (0)1543 483344 www.graysofshenstone.co.uk

Hunter-Outdoor (K & K CLOTHING) +44 (0)121 555 8334 www.rockall.info

Sportmark by Signam +44 (0)1926 417300 www. sportsmark.co.uk a Stable Safe +44 (0)7500 091650 www.stable-safe.com

EQ Life Magazine +44 (0)1953 852946 ww.eqlife.co.uk

Griffin Nuumed +44 (0)1458 210324 www.nuumed.co.uk

Allen and Page +44 (0)1362 822900 www.allenandpage.com Andover Healthcare, Inc. +1 978 4650044 www.andoverhealthcare.com

Animal Health Company Harold Moore Equestrian Creative Network +44 (0)1787 476400 +44 (0)114 2700513 www.equestriancreativenetwork.com www.equinehealthandherbal.co.uk www.haroldmoore.co.uk Equi-Ads B Jenkinson & Sons Ltd Harpley Equestrian +44 (0)1738 567700 +44 (0)1924 454681 +44 (0)115 9611537 www.equiads.net www.elico.co.uk info@harpleyequestrian.co.uk Equimat Baileys Horse Feeds www.harpleyequestrian.co.uk +44 (0)1536 513456 +44 (0)1371 850247 Haybar www.equimat.co.uk wwwbaileyshorsefeeds.co.uk +44 (0)1723 882434 Equine Speedskip Bedmax Shavings www.haybar.co.uk +44 (0)1989 769435 +44 (0)1922 621676 Hemp Technology Ltd www.equinespeedskip.com www.bedmaxshavings.com +44 (0)1986 835678 Equestrian Supplies Brinicombe Equine www.hemptechnology.co.uk +44 (0)8700 606206 +44 (0)1254 831645 Hilton Herbs Ltd www.brinicombe-equine.co.uk Equestrian Vision +44 (0)1460 270700 British Horse Feeds +44 (0)1403 865320 www.hiltonherbs.com +44 (0)1765 680300 www.equestrianvision.co.uk www.britishhorsefeeds.com Holdsworth PR EquiAmi Ltd +44 (0)1903 892060 Champion +44 (0)1584 891049 www.holdsworthpr.co.uk + 44 (0)113 2707007 www.equiami.com www.championhats.co.uk Honeychop Horse Feeds Equine Management Charles Owen +44 (0)1359 230823 +44 (0)1825 840002 +44 (0)1978 317777 www.honeychop.com www.equineman.com www.charlesowen.co.uk Horse & Jockey Ltd Equisafety Ltd Clarendon Equestrian Ltd +44 (0)1981 550467 +44 (0)1516 787182 +44 (0)1825 733361 www.capcover.net www.clarendon-equestrian.com www.equisafety.com Horsefair Classic Showjumps Exo2 +44 (0)1264 811425 +44 (0)161 765 2010 / 2014 +44 (0)1335 372600 www.horsefair.co.uk www.classicshowjumps.com www.exo2.co.uk

Kate Negus +44 (0)1249 740590 www.katenegus.com

Parallax Plastics Ltd +44 (0)115 966 3836 www.parallaxplastics.co.uk Pellet Beds +44 (0)1789 761333 www.pelletbeds.com PelGar +44 (0)1420 80744 www pelgar.co.uk

Keratex +44 (0)1373 827649 www.keratex.com Kevin Bacon’s +44 (0)1296 662473 www.kevinbacons.co.uk Kozi Kidz +44 (0)1302 746680 www.kozikidz.co.uk Lets Talk Horses + 44 (0)1953 850678 enquiries@letstalkhorses.co.uk Life Data Labs Inc +1 256 3707555 www.LifeDatalabs.com Likit For orders Westgate EFI +44 (0)1303 872277 www.likit.com Littlemax +44 (0)1668 213467 www.littlemaxshavings.com LS Sales (Farnam) Ltd +44 (0)1608 683855 www.lesliesutcliffe.biz Maquien Design +44 (0)8000 925699 www.maquiendesign.co.uk

Pfizer Animal Health +44 (0)1304 616161 www.wormingyourhorse.info PressPoint +44 (0)1953 851513 www.presspoint.co.uk Rima Exports +91 972 1504005 rimaexport@gmail.com Robinson Animal Healthcare +44 (0)1909 735000 www.robinsoncare.com Rockall +44 (0)121 5558334 www.rockall.info Rockies +44 (0)1606 595025 www.rockies.co.uk

Stormsure +44 (0)3333 441500 www.stormsure.co.uk a Taurus Footwear and Leathers Ltd +44 (0)1328 851432 www.taurusfootwearandleathers.

Tayberry + 44 (0) 2920 464606 www.tayberry.co.uk Toggi +44 (0)113 2707007 www.toggi.com Trelawne Equine Ltd +44 (0)8442 578585 www.trelawneequine.co.uk Vale Brothers +44 (0)1239 614648 www.kbf99.co.uk Vetericyn +353 91 796896 www.vetericyn.com Virbac Animal Health +44 (0)1359 243243 www.equimax-tabs.com

W F Young, Inc Saracen Horse Feeds +001 413 526 9999 + 44 (0)1622 718 487 www.absorbine.co.uk www.saracen-horse-feeds.co.uk Wahl Seaquim +44 (0)1227 740555 +353 (0)8623 64609 www.wahl.co.uk www.seaquimequine.net Westgate EFI Ltd Science Supplements +44 (0)1303 872277 +44 (0)8456 800606 www.sciencesupplements.co.uk Westgate Labs +44 (0)1670791994 Silvermoor www.westgatelabs.co.uk +44 (0)1665 602587

Horse Health Trade +44 (0)2380 814360 www.horsehealthtrade.co.uk

Maxavita +44 (0)8450 752754 www.maxavita.com a Mears Country Jackets Ltd +44 (0)1922 476930 www.mearsjackets.com

Smart Grooming +44 (0)1823 681076

Worklite Ltd +44 (0)1279 418052 www.work-lite.com

Horses with Attitude +44 (0)1274 852139 www.horseswithattitude.co.uk

Measom Freer +44 (0)116 2881588 www.measomfreer.co.uk

Solocomb +44 (0)1235 511358 www.solocomb.co.uk

Your Gift Horse +44 (0)1454 510102 www.yourgifthorse.com a

Clipper Sharp +44 (0)1823 681076 www.clippersharp.comt

Faulks & Co. +44 (0)1455 848184 www.wmfaulks.com

Horse First Ltd +44 (0)2830 848844 www.horsefirst.neta

Cox Agri +44 (0)845 600 8081 www.coxagri.com

Fly Away +44 (0)1384 877857 www.flyaway.ltd.uk

Creative Equine Marketing Friendship Estates +44 (0)780 3728646 +44 (0)1302 700220 www.creativeequinemarketing.co.uk www.friendshipestates.co.uk

Jack Murphy +44 (0)1768 867590 www.jackmurphy.co.uk

www.silvermoor.com

TBK

Performance Wear for Horse and Rider

Nom 201 inated 2 Sup Trade pli the er of yea r

Affordable Designer Jodhpurs & Breeches, headcollars and Saddlery Unique and Innovative designs generating excellent retail profitability Please call or email for your free catalogue

Email: k.bentley@tbkltd.com Tel: 01580 292632 Fax: 01580 848042

May 2016 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Equestrian 57 Business

interview

5 minutes with...

Theresa Morris From Pony Club to Conductor, Theresa’s come a long way.

What is your role within the company?

I’m the conductor of the orchestra, holding everything together at Treehouse.

What career path led to this point?

Having spent much of my childhood in Pony Club, I started off in racing, which is something I had set my sights on from an early age and was a very natural step for me. Alongside racing, my other passion was eventing, from which I used to get such an adrenalin rush when I competed.

It didn’t take long for me to get the inspiration to link these two passions together. I spotted a gap in the market and thought it would be a good idea to put racing designs on to XC colours and by the age of 24, I set up ‘Treehouse Sporting Colours’ as a British manufacturer, with backing from the Princes Trust, who gave me some brilliant mentoring and a loan on exceptionally favourable terms!

What advice would you give to your 18 year old self?

To be persistent, put in the hard work and don’t let little things knock you down.

The biggest challenge I faced was continuing the business through the Foot & Mouth outbreak. We relied entirely on sales generated through the showground and with every show cancelled during this period, I nearly lost the business.

We had to think very creatively and quickly on our feet and did this by trading online and through mail-order, when the Internet was in its infancy!

This proved to be a real turning point for the business and taught me very quickly to minimise risk by not relying too heavily on one area for income.

What new innovations have you brought to the company and what do you have in the pipeline?

One of our core strategies for the

58 Equestrian November May 2016 2015 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

business is to continually innovate with the launch of new products. Our latest 2 innovations have both won BETA awards in recognition of their pioneering technology, inspiring designs and original inventions.

The innovations we introduce to the industry all come through our distribution division. For the rider, the Helite AirShell collection of protective rider clothing was launched to give riders the option to wear a safety airbag concealed within a blouson, gilet or show jacket. This year, we launched the AeroChill boots, which have incredible technological capabilities for helping to provide effective evaporative cooling. In terms of rider health, we are developing our ‘Outdoor Hands’ product range, focusing on the launch of a 100% natural, paraben-free lip balm and cream for ‘outdoor faces’.

What business innovations have caught your eye recently?

I am fascinated by the influence technology has on our daily lives; whether through social media, apps or in the everyday appliances we use. So, at the moment, any equine apps that help aid training, offer equine advice, encourage interaction / sharing of experiences and of course help to improve rider safety, are all catching my eye.

What do you think is the secret to your company’s success?

A good team. I am so fortunate to have a loyal and enthusiastic team around me, to help grow and develop the business, some

Find us online...

Theresa Morri s of whom have been with me from the very early days.

I am a strong believer in treating people respectfully and this is testament to the loyalty of my team and our customer retention rate. I have always believed that reputations are built through providing good customer service and customer value. In an era where social media can be so public and influential, maintaining these values is more important than ever.

Traditional values lie at the heart of everything we do and we continue to invest heavily in customer service employee satisfaction. Our customers really appreciate this, especially when the knowledge of our team means they can connect with each and every one of our customers on a personal level.

What are you most proud of about your company?

I am most proud of the growth of our company and its reputation for good service and products.

Quickfire questions: What do you do in your spare time?

Riding my horse and spending time with my children Archie and Eliza – bar that, I don’t have a lot of spare time!

What’s your favourite holiday destination?

Mountains in the winter and seaside in the summer!

Describe yourself in three words? Bubbly, Busy & Conscientious When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be the next Ginny Leng or Lucinda Green (Prior-Palmer) – I can still remember everyone’s colours! I was always interested in what they wore and can still remember them all very clearly.

Where do you see the business in the next ten years?

To be in healthy position and ready to hand on to our children.

Equestrian Business is growing, so to find out more, access news as it happens or discover how you can get your brand in front of thousands of key decisions makers thanks to our website, visit www.ebmonthly.co.uk. Trade account holders access the full site content, including online versions of the magazine. To find out more email enquiries@ebmonthly.co.uk.

May 2016 www.ebmonthly.co.uk

Equestrian 59 Business

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60 Equestrian May 2016 Business www.ebmonthly.co.uk

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