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Dear Readers,
It has been both overwhelming and inspiring to create this Autumn edition As always, it’s a privilege to bring together stories that celebrate the Friesian horse community and shine a light on the dedication and expertise required to support these incredible horses
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For advertising enquiries please contact contact@ukfriesianfederation.co.uk
STORIES/NEWS
Got a story you would like to share with our community? From highs and lows, competition success to every day stories, We want to hear from You! Please email or D.M. on social media
Equine welfare is a key focus this season, as the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing comes into sharper focus Caring for our horses is no small task it takes a network of skilled individuals, from grooms and farriers to vets, saddle fitters, and trainers, all working together to ensure the wellbeing of our equine partners This issue features invaluable insights from industry professionals, offering guidance and inspiration for horse owners at all levels
This edition also celebrates the joy of the Friesian community From the incredible success of the Friesian Display Team to the heartfelt stories shared by our readers, each piece reflects the unique bond we share with our horses. Whether you’re stepping into the competitive arena, enjoying a leisurely hack, or cheering from the sidelines, you’ll find something here to ignite your passion
I’m especially proud of the interviews and features that highlight the lesser-seen aspects of equestrian life, such as the unseen work of grooms, the art of bit fitting, and the dedication of professionals who ensure that our horses thrive both physically and mentally These stories remind us of the depth of care and connection involved in equestrianism.
As you read through this issue, I hope you feel the same sense of awe and gratitude that I do for the incredible network of people who make this community what it is
Whether you’re looking for advice, inspiration, or simply a chance to celebrate, this magazine is for you.
The opinions expressed by individual contributors may not necessarily reflect those of the UK Friesian Federation Likewise, the presence of advertisements in this magazine does not imply an endorsement of the products and services by the UK Friesian Federation.
Warm Regards,
Samuel Wolfenden with Hessel (Andries 415 x Tsjalke 397) P. 50-53
New Forest Autumn highlights
All Steps Formation Gala highlights 14-16 Reaching New Heights- Gracie Catling and Jeb Conquer Grand Prix
20-24 Fenway FoundationGastroparesis & Gastric Rupture in Friesian Horses
26-30 Unlocking Equine Wellness, The Art and Science of Chiropractic care with Isabelle Rosser
31-32 It takes a Team Paige Beattie feature
34 British Grooms Association
36 - 44 International GroomFrancesca Manley
46-48 Faye O’Hara feature
Francesca Manley - International Groom Story P 36-44 Photo by: Jasmin Jung
FEATURES
50 - 53 Cover Star Story: Crafting Hooves, Building Legacy FarrierSamuel Wolfenden
54- 56 Paul Orchard of the Art and Challenge of Equestrian Photography
57-60 Triumphs and Adversity: Wamkjes Journey by Delia Jane Harris
61-62 Inside the Hoof, Understanding and Treating Keratomas in Horses
64- 69 Joey’s Triumph, A Journey from Adversity to the Royal Windsor Horse Show with Emma Barrie
71- 75 The Art and Science of Saddle Fitting for Friesian horses with Rachael Sivyer
78- 84 The Art and Science of Bit Fitting, Hilary Vernon’s Journey to Revolutionising Equine comfort
89- 91 Readers Gallery: Halloween Highlights
91-97 Readers Gallery: incredible pictures from our readers
As the leaves turn and the days grow shorter, we’re reminded of the seasonal changes and slowing down This Autumn edition celebrates resilience, growth, and the community spirit that defines the UK Friesian Federation.
We’re proud to bring you stories that highlight the incredible people and horses in our world From inspirational stories of recovery and achievements to practical advice on horse care, every page reflects the dedication and passion of our community.
Equine Welfare in Focus: This issue focuses into the collaborative efforts required to ensure the wellbeing of our Friesian companions We spotlight the essential roles played by grooms, vets, saddle fitters, trainers, bit specialist, physio & chircopractor, offering insights into how their expertise shapes the lives of our horses
Community Highlights: Whether it’s the awe-inspiring performances of the Friesian Display Team or Gracie Catling & Jeb 1st ever UK Friesian at Grand Prix level, the heartwarming journeys shared by our readers, this edition is packed with moments that celebrate the Friesian spirit.
We hope you find inspiration, guidance, and joy within these pages. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey with us
Saturday21stDecember,15.0015.30
Horses,health,andhappinesshowhorseshelpedmymental health:InconversationwithLindsay NicholsonMBE(Author:Perfect Bound)&FayeO'Hara JoininspirationalspeakersLindsay Nicholson,formerGood HousekeepingMagazineEditorand author,andcompetitivecarriage driverFayeO'Haraastheyshare theirextraordinarylifestories, facingchallengeandadversity, andhowvolunteering,horsesand gettingbackinthecarriagehave helpedwiththeirmentalhealthand theroadtorecovery.
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ExcitingNews! OurUKFriesian FederationGiletshaveofficially dropped!Thesestylishsoftshell gilets,asseenonourFriesian DisplayTeam,arenowavailableto orderfromXSto2XL Whether you’reatthestablesoroutand about,they’reperfectforshowing yourFriesianpride! ukfriesianfederation.co.uk/store
WouldyouliketoseeFriesianSpecificClassesat yourFavoriteShowssuchasShowing(County Shows/ForeignBreedShows),CarriageDriving,All StepsFormation,Dressage,EnduranceTeam,or anyotherdisciplines?
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By Rachael Sivyer - Director of College of Saddle Fitting
DECEMBER
What an AMAZING day at the Friesian & Friends Ride in the beautiful New Forest19th October. The sun was shining, and everyone had such a wonderful time. Thank you so much to Dee & Alex for organizing this incredible event year after year. We couldn’t have asked for better weather or better company! Until the next ride, 11th May next year — we can’t wait to do it all over again!
What an incredible experience at the All-Steps Formation Riding Gala Event at Merrist Wood on 31st Aug! A huge thank you to all the riders, grooms, and amazing support groups who traveled from far and wide to witness the very first performance of the Friesian Stallion Duo & Friesian Display Team. It was truly heartwarming to see what this moment meant to each rider, horse, and their families and friends who came out to support and cheer us on. (The atmosphere was so exciting and buzzing that we did have a silent applause moment at the final salute, as some horses got a little too excited! ) We're incredibly proud to have had 10 Friesian horses participating in the event! We certainly had a “Sky Full of Stars” and “Danced in the Moonlight” kind of night. We absolutely loved the experience and just want to say thank you to everyone who came to watch and support. It truly means the world to us!
So, who is it behind the Quantum Bridle?
I’m Jill Hick I’ve been in the equine industry for over 30 years I’ve worked in many different areas, equine behaviourist, saddler, trainer and equine body worker Alongside Gill Batt, of Horse Bit Advice, and independent bitting expert for 25 years (See bitting feature)
What inspired the design of the Quantum?
As a body worker I attended many seminars and one in particular caused me to want to design a better bridle The seminar was from Vibeke Elbrond, a Vet and now faculty of Health and Medical Science Joining forces with Gill Batt and bringing knowledge from each of our fields, we then developed the Quantum Bridle, solely designed for the comfort of the horse, as it relieves pressure & works around facial nerves, facia lines & the TMJ.
What are you most proud of in regards to the bridle?
We are both incredibly proud that we have built a bridle that doesn’t look like a “normal” bridle, because that’s what the horses need. We’ve watched and learnt from all the horses we have fitted to over the past 7 years & we are happy that we are getting it right for them We’ve spent the last 2 years disagreeing with BD and FEI To stay BD and FEI legal we had to adjust the design This was difficult for us to do, knowing the cavesson is what our horses like the most But we wanted to ensure those horses competing were able to remain in a Quantum Sadly, unless they make it compulsory for all tack to be scientifically tested by vets on an independent basis horses will carry on being ridden in uncomfortable equipment
With the access to so much information now on social media, we feel that everyday horse lovers like ourselves can stand up for our horses, and disagree with the decisions that are made for our horses to compete, by people & organisations that have never met or seen our quirky little individuals!
To find out more, and view all of the independent research go to www.quantumbridle.com or scan the QR code
Can you tell us more about the independent research which includes The Quantum Bridle?
Becausethedesignwassodifferentwewereapproached toruntrialswithTheQuantum,ofcoursewehadnoidea whattheoutcomewouldbe,wejustknewthathorses weremovingfreer,seeminghappier,andourclientshad beenblownawaywiththeirhorseschangeScientific evidencewasonadifferentlevel,withtheevidence,we knewthatthiscouldmakechangesforthewelfareofthe riddenhorse
WeweresopleasedthattheQuantumwasabletobeused underrulesbytheFEI&BD,suchgreatnewsforour clients Fouryearslatertheybannedthecavesson Quantum,whichthenledustorunmoretrials&alsobe involvedinindependentresearch,alongwith4otherFEI approvedbridlesTheQuantumwasshowntobethebridle thatcausednopressure.Twoofthebridleswithinthetrials causedsomuchpressurewhenbeingused,thatthe horseswouldbeinpainThishasbeensubmittedtothe FEIbuttherehasbeennofeedbackfromthem.Wearestill fightingtobeheard,andwewon’tgiveup,aswebelieveit istimeforachangewithintheequestrianworld,andthisis ourchancetostandupforourlovelyequinefriends
In an inspiring journey marked by dedication and perseverance, Gracie Catling and her Friesian horse, Jeb, have achieved the remarkable achievment of reaching very first Grand Prix level in dressage for Friesian horse in the UK. Through years of careful training and an unbreakable bond, Gracie and Jeb have proven that Friesians can excel at the sport’s highest levels. From their disciplined routines to the unwavering support of her family, Gracie shares insights into her journey and what this milestone means for her, Jeb, and the wider dressage community.
Congratulations on reaching the Grand Prix level with Jeb! How does it feel to achieve this milestone, and what does it mean to you and Jeb as a team?
Reaching GP with Jeb has been the result of 14 years training He was never bought with the intention to do that but he just kept training slowly and carefully up through the levels Not many horses stand the challenges and physical demands but he has been amazing and kept on going for us. It helps that he has a great personality and enjoys the work I would say he is more mentally a GP horse than physically For us as a family to have home produced a horse to GP especially a Friesian is very rewarding and quite unique
Can you walk us through the key steps and challenges you faced while training Jeb for Grand Prix movements like piaffe, passage, and tempi changes?
What was the most challenging movement to master?
The main challenge has always been stamina with Jeb, because he hasn’t got the best levels you could only train slowly he gets puffed quickly. In hindsight this may be why he stood the test of time as you can’t over ride him Piaffe and passage is more easy for him and he loves it, tempis took a long time and demand more physical effort so this was a long time but when he got them it’s his party piece now
Being featured on the cover of British Dressage is a huge accomplishment. What was that experience like, and how did it feel to see yourself and Jeb representing Friesians at such a high level?
Being on the front cover of BD magazine is usually for the likes of Olympic medalists! It was an honour to be asked after he won the Petplan championships at inter. A real bucket list moment and accolade for the breed and myself.
How have your training routines evolved as you’ve moved up to higher levels in dressage? Are there specific exercises or techniques that have been particularly effective in preparing Jeb for Grand Prix tests?
In preparing Jeb for GP the key has been less is more. Don’t over work him, warm him up and crack on with the movements don’t waste the energy He is very core fit and doesn’t struggle but he would if you wanted to canter round for long periods. You can bring him into collection much quicker than my WB horse who needs a lot of energy out of him first There is a big difference in riding and schooling the different types of horses.
Achieving success in dressage is often a team effort. Can you share how your support system, including your mom, Julia, and others, has helped you reach this point?
Teamwork is the key to success, my mum is passionate about the friesians and understands them so well and also she is a BD judge so she helps with test prep and how much you really need to do for the good marks. We have excellent professionals around us to keep the horses as good as they can be and training with David Trott who is a list 1 judge who really helps me with the higher level work
What do you think are Jeb's greatest strengths as a dressage horse, and how does his personality influence your rides? Jebs greatest strengths are his temperament to always try for me, he has a bit of a mental block sometimes he isn’t always perfect! He has a natural ability for passage which is great.
For riders aspiring to reach the Grand Prix level, what advice would you give them based on your own journey?
For riders aspiring to GP you need a sympathetic trainer who doesn’t want to push hard like some do, quality over quantity! Focus on your strengths, don’t get too fixated on the weaknesses.
Now that you’ve reached Grand Prix, what are your future goals for you and Jeb? Are there any specific competitions or achievements you’re aiming for next?
Jeb’s 18 now and we will keep him happy at home and fit and train the GP work and do a few more I hope He owes us nothing and we owe him everything I feel to train and produce a horse at home to the top level of the sport and keep them happy and healthy at this age has been a privilege and one that riders dream of so we have been very lucky.
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By: Fenway Foundation
Research has indicated Friesians appear to be disproportionately affected by primary gastric rupture. To determine the genetic inheritance of gastroparesis and gastric rupture in Friesian horses, The Fenway Foundation for Friesian Horses, based in the United States, has launched a genetic research study at the University of Kentucky. One theory researchers have contemplated is that the increased presentation of primary gastric rupture in Friesians may be caused by gastric dysmotility due to a breed-specific collagen-related connective tissue disorder. However, this has not yet been proven. Until there is a genetic test for gastroparesis in Friesian horses, owners must be aware of the signs and symptoms of this issue so they can take prompt action to prevent gastric rupture.
Gastric motor function and gastric emptying in horses is a complex process. Many horse owners don’t consider that liquids and solids are handled differently within the equine stomach. Solid food undergoes a process called trituration once it enters the stomach, which crushes and grinds food into tiny particles and mixes it with water and digestive juices to form “chyme”- a thick semifluid mass of partially digested food and digestive secretions.
The trituration process requires coordinated gastric motility consisting of peristaltic contractions, which generate pressure and move chyme down towards the stomach's exit.
Compared to humans, the equine stomach has minimal potential as a reservoir for large meals. A horse’s stomach is relatively small, with an average capacity of approximately 9.4 liters (9 kg) for a 453 kg horse. A horse’s stomach is also unable to relax and accommodate food in response to gastric distention. Therefore, a horse’s stomach contents should not exceed 2/3 of its capacity (including forage) at any time. This equates to a maximum of 6 liters (5.8 kg) of total ingesta for a 453 kg. horse. This explains why, among many other reasons, horses should not receive large concentrate or grain meals and should ingest forage at a slow pace Additionally, soaking food items such as concentrates, grains, and forage pellets and cubes in water before feeding them assists in trituration.
The exit of the stomach is a thick circular muscle called the pylorus that remains partially contracted at all times. In order for chyme to exit through the pylorus, larger food particles must be triturated down to an acceptable size, ideally 1-2 millimeters This process is referred to as gastric emptying, and the rate of emptying is influenced by the nature and volume of the meal ingested. Large-volume meals, large food particles, long-stemmed forage, high-fat meals, and high-carbohydrate meals all empty the stomach at a slower rate than their alternatives The average rate of gastric emptying in healthy adult horses is 1.5 hours for solids and 10 – 70 minutes for liquids.
Gastroparesis is a gastric motility disorder characterized by delayed gastric emptying in the absence of mechanical obstruction. Delayed gastric emptying is a term commonly used by veterinarians, but it is not a disease itself Instead, it describes symptoms that can be caused by many issues, some of which are temporary and treatable and others that are chronic and progressive. In humans, a plethora of conditions cause delayed gastric emptying, and it would be naïve to assume that similar conditions do not exist in horses.
Gastroparesis is a poorly defined disease in horses characterized by delayed gastric emptying of solid food, primary gastric impaction, and primary gastric rupture. Affected horses do not appear to have difficulty emptying liquids from their stomach and, therefore, rarely present with fluid distention of the stomach or gastroesophageal reflux. Clinical signs are vague and include many symptoms often confused with ulcer symptoms, such as inappetence, mild recurrent colic, reluctance to work, signs of pain, sensitivity to touch, and aversion to tightening the saddle girth. Gastric ulcers, particularly glandular ulcers, are often present in horses with gastroparesis. Affected horses can be asymptomatic; in such cases, the condition is usually identified incidentally during gastroscopy.
Fortunately, diagnosing gastroparesis is relatively straightforward and inexpensive. Horses can be diagnosed at a referral clinic or even on the farm by fasted gastroscopy. Horses typically fast for at least 16 hours, with water withheld for the final three hours of fasting. A marker, such as a piece of carrot, is often fed at the beginning of the fast. Once the horse has been fasted sufficiently, a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light called an endoscope is inserted through the horse’s nose, down the esophagus, and into the stomach. The horse is sedated, and the stomach is inflated with air to allow for a full examination.
If the horse’s stomach is functioning properly, the entire stomach can be visualized, including the pylorus (exit of the stomach), and any ulcers present can be graded. Close attention is paid to the pylorus to ensure it is capable of fully opening and closing with regular contractions The procedure typically takes 15 – 20 minutes to complete. If the stomach is full or partially full, a complete examination cannot take place, and further fasting, up to 24 hours, may be required.
Resolving gastric impaction can be difficult, particularly if it is left to progress for a significant amount of time. However, if gastric impaction is caught early enough, horses can be fasted for a period of time and then placed on a diet of soaked hay pellets and soaked concentrates to prevent future impactions. Additionally, there are medications that can be given, with varying degrees of success, in an attempt to improve gastric motility.
The best approach to preventing gastric rupture is to treat all colic-like pain as an emergency. Acute cases will develop rapidly, and once the stomach ruptures, there is little that can be done Fortunately, impending secondary gastric rupture as a result of intestinal obstruction can often be confirmed and relieved by passing a nasogastric tube into the stomach through the nostrils and draining gas and fluid from the stomach.
If an impaction has gone undetected, it can lead to gastric rupture. Gastric rupture is rare in horses and is almost always fatal. There are two types of gastric rupture: primary gastric rupture and secondary gastric rupture.
Primary Gastric Rupture is caused by the abnormal expansion of the stomach with feed material due to delayed emptying, often due to a physical obstruction such as a tumor, glandular gastric ulcers, or gastroparesis. Other less common causes of primary gastric rupture include severe gastric ulceration leading to perforation, death of stomach wall tissue due to localized loss of blood supply, or extreme overeating.
Horses with primary gastric complications will often initially present with a slow onset of symptoms typically associated with gastric ulcers that may be missed by the owner. This, among several other reasons, is why it is particularly important to perform a gastroscopy prior to treating any horse for ulcers If the horse is misdiagnosed with a simple case of ulcers and no gastroscopy is performed, gastroparesis could result in a subsequent gastric impaction and, ultimately, primary gastric rupture
Secondary Gastric Rupture is caused by the abnormal expansion of the stomach as a result of an intestinal obstruction (colic) which then causes gas or the contents of the small intestines to backflow into the stomach.
Regardless of whether it is related to primary or secondary causes, the hallmark sign of impending gastric rupture is intense and unbearable abdominal pain, which often causes an extremely violent reaction from the horse as the stomach nears rupture. This pain is nearly always unrelieved by the typical pain medications given for colic. If the horse is particularly stoic, as Friesians are known to be, it may not show signs of intense pain until it is too late for intervention. Surgical repair of a gastric rupture is very rarely possible, as the horse must already be at an equine hospital and prepared for surgery when the moment of gastric rupture occurs.
A study of primary gastric rupture in 47 horses from 1995-2011 that was published in the Canadian Veterinary Journal found an apparent breed predisposition of Friesians and Draft breeds to primary gastric rupture. Researchers hypothesize the predisposition may be related to breed-associated differences in pain tolerance or the presence of underlying connective tissue defects or gastric dysmotility (gastroparesis).
Subjectively, Draft horses and Friesians are more stoic breeds and may not manifest gastric pain until severe, possibly delaying treatment and predisposing them to gastric rupture It is also possible that both draft horses and Friesians have an underlying structural or functional defect in their stomach, making them more likely to rupture compared with other breeds. The Friesian breed suffers from several diseases thought to be connective tissue-related diseases, including megaesophagus and aortic rupture, and it is conceivable that a connective tissue-related disorder could also affect the stomach of Friesian horses.
It is also worth noting that over the past four years, the Fenway Foundation has been studying the genetic inheritance of megaesophagus in Friesian horses; a significant number of Friesians with megaesophagus also have gastroparesis
If and how these two diseases are connected remains to be determined, but this is certainly an important line of inquiry for researchers.
It is critical that Friesian owners understand the symptoms of gastroparesis, which are often misinterpreted to be associated with gastric ulcers. If horses with suspected ulcers are actually suffering from gastroparesis and the owner or vet elects not to perform a fasted gastroscopy and instead simply treats the horse for gastric ulcers, in the worst case scenario, this could lead to a primary gastric impaction and rupture, which is usually fatal. Friesian horses that show symptoms of gastric ulcers should undergo fasted gastroscopy to confirm the presence of ulcers, determine the type (squamous or glandular), and receive the specific medication appropriate for treating ulcers in that region of the stomach Finally, due to the apparent breed disposition of Friesians to primary gastric rupture and their stoic nature, it is essential that owners take any signs of colic pain seriously and consult with their veterinarian without delay. If owners are able to recognize the signs of gastric pain and take action early enough, gastric rupture can hopefully be prevented.
For more information on gastroparesis or gastric rupture or to enroll a Friesian horse in the Fenway Foundation’s genetic research study, please go to www.fenwayfoundation.com/
Equine chiropractor Isabelle Rosser shares insights into the benefits, challenges, and transformative power of chiropractic care for horses
In the world of equine care, chiropractic therapy is gaining recognition for its profound benefits. Isabelle, a passionate and skilled equine chiropractor, has dedicated her life to helping horses overcome pain, improve mobility, and enhance performance Inspired by her own transformative experience with chiropractic care, Isabelle provides a unique perspective on how this practice supports equine health and longevity. From addressing injuries to boosting overall wellness, her work exemplifies the potential of holistic approaches in equine care
Horses quickly understand you ’ re there to help. With patience and mindfulness, chiropractic care can truly change their lives.
Can you share your journey into becoming an equine chiropractor? What inspired you to specialize in chiropractic care for horses?
I wanted to become a chiropractor from a young age after a fall during a riding lesson gave me terrible neck pain and headaches The hospital could find nothing wrong and in desperation I was sent to a chiropractor, the difference after the first adjustment was amazing. My pony then broke her withers very badly and with the help of a chiropractor she went back into full work with no problems!
For those unfamiliar, what exactly does a horse chiropractor do? How does it differ from traditional veterinary care?
A Chiropractor is primarily working on the nervous system, which is responsible for all bodily functions, by way of performing specific adjustments to those joints that are not functioning correctly This helps to restore the correct functionality and reduce any painful symptoms
Many chiropractors, like myself, will also add soft tissue work to their treatment, such as massage and stretching Chiropractic is an adjunct to and does not replace traditional Veterinary Care - your Vet remains Primary Care for your horse at all times
What are the most common issues or conditions that you treat in horses?
Initially, I am usually called out in response to a problem For example stopping at fences, finding particular movements harder one way than the other such as picking up canter leads Often it can be for undiagnosed lameness and literally a last ditch attempt for an owner or vet to get to the bottom of things Mostly once owners can see the benefits of chiropractic treatment they like to continue with periodic maintenance treatment
What are the key benefits of chiropractic treatment for horses? Can it help in both performance horses and leisure horses?
Chiropractic can be a beneficial addition to most horses care It is worth noting that your vet does remain Primary Care for your horse at all times and it is important that they are kept in the loop with any findings As with humans, having chiropractic adjustments and work to the soft tissues helps the body to function correctly and reduce wear and tearlike having tracking done on your car to ensure your tyres wear evenly Reducing discomfort and enabling better performance of your horse can only be a good thing
Are there any specific disciplines where chiropractic care is especially beneficial, like dressage, show jumping, or carriage driving?
Chiropractic care is really for any discipline, in-fact even retired and older horses can benefit greatly from maintenance treatment, thus helping them to move around more comfortably. Generally speaking, other factors aside, the greater the horses workload the more frequent treatment intervals will be. It has to be said though that I find horses ‘fix’ a heck of a lot quicker than humans presenting with similar problems!
How can an owner identify if their horse might benefit from chiropractic care? Are there signs or symptoms to look out for?
If something changes, particularly in the horses work or their handling, it can be that they might benefit from Chiropractic treatment. Often a horse will have trouble picking up a canter lead, stopping at fences, napping, unhappy taking a contact - the list goes on! However, as mentioned you do need to speak with your vet first as other causes might need to be ruled out. It is important to note that if you would like anyone at all other than your Primary Care vet to treat your horse, your vet does need to give their permission as per the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966.
How often do you recommend horses receive chiropractic treatment? Is it a one-time solution or something to be incorporated into routine care?
It very much varies depending on any preexisting conditions, workload and the horses environment A racehorse or GP dressage horse might be treated every few weeks in close conjunction with the vet
Your regular competition horses often find 3-4 times a year is a good aim if there are no additional problems and this can always be in conjunction with other therapies, while being mindful to leave enough of a gap between for example a physiotherapy appointment and a chiropractic adjustment Happy Hackers are often good with an annual MOT!
What role does chiropractic care play in the rehabilitation of horses recovering from injury or surgery?
Chiropractic care can assist in ensuring the spine and therefore the nervous system are functioning as well as they can, helping to maintain homeostasis, the horses equilibrium In turn this allows the body the capacity to heal Especially after general anaesthetic the horse can have ended up in awkward positions and chiropractic adjustments can help to iron him out again! A bit like the feeling you might get in your jaw or neck when you ’ ve been in the dentists chair for a long time!
Could you share any success stories of horses that have made significant improvements with chiropractic treatment?
One that will always stick in my head was a showjumper with an undiagnosed forelimb lameness His insurance had maxed out long ago, he’d had xrays, MRI’s and scans and countless work ups The vets couldn’t pinpoint the cause and given the horse was definitely not a candidate to become a field ornament, the owner was considering euthanasia A client of mine suggested to the owner as a last ditch attempt to get me to have a look It turned out his C5/6 joint, right at the base of his neck was totally stuck thus aggravating the nerve, causing pain The first adjustment was a big one but his post adjustment trot up showed a good 50% improvement in soundness! He went on to have a couple of follow ups only a week apart, then a few weeks later a further examination and adjustment whereby he now appeared sound and back to normal This was a decade ago but really sticks in my head and makes me happy I do what I do! He went back to full work and a happy life.
What techniques do you use most frequently during chiropractic sessions? Can you walk us through a typical treatment session with a horse?
Chiropractic adjustments are a specific impetus into the exact plane of the joint, to help increase the range of motion of that joint where it may have become dysfunctional for any reason I will discuss the reasons for calling me out, with the owner and maybe have additional conversations with the Vet and trainer. I will then assess the horse at rest in a comfortable environment and get a general idea of how they handle themselves, ie relaxed, a little tense etc I go on to perform various assessments both with palpation and biomechanical assessment, which can include lunging or riding Based on my findings I will go ahead and treat, so long as there are no red flag signs meaning I’d want to refer back to the Vet. Treatment consists of any adjustments needed and mostly with soft tissue work too, unless contraindicated, for example in a horse with laminitis I will then discuss with the owner how we should proceed regards time off, rehabilitation exercises and further treatment if deemed necessary
I am always on the end of the phone for my clients who can update me with videos which can be particularly useful Sometimes the updates will show me the horse galloping across the field or winning at his next show - I love these updates!
How do you ensure the horse is comfortable and cooperative during the session, especially if they are new to chiropractic care?
As previously mentioned I take time to assess the horses temperament and how he handles himself.
Safety not only of myself and the handler, but also of the horse is paramount. I never tie a horse for treatment unless it’s a horse I know and can read very well while treating on my own Some horses prefer treatment in their stable, some outside but pretty much every horse realises very quickly that you ’ re there to help. I always have a radar out keeping an eye on the horses body language so I can back off or make a leap off my block if necessary! It’s common that I’ll turn up with my treatment block and the owner or handler will tell me I won’t get it near their horse, the horses always let you if you take your time and are mindful how you present it to them Horses are very intelligent animals!
How important is the role of the owner in maintaining their horse’s spinal health between treatments? Are there exercises or routines they can follow?
The owner, farrier, vet, yard staff, saddler, dentist, trainers and any other therapists they use, all play a vital role in the horse’s wellbeing I love how many Vets and others are happy working as a team, sharing knowledge and putting our heads together with more unusual cases. The owner can much more easily do what’s right for their horse if everyone involved is reading from the same book! For the owner, yes stretches and ridden exercises really help, even when you don’t feel there’s a problem, they keep the horses core strong and the body supple. It’s important to warm up and cool off properly every time the horse is exercised
What are some common misconceptions about chiropractic care for horses that you would like to clear up?
Good question, mostly for me this applies more to treating people than horses! Us horse people seem to be very much in line with using different modalities of all kinds to help fix problems and help our horses. It’s amazing in human clinic how I have desperate new patients who’ve been up to their eyeballs on meds for years with debilitating headaches and are genuinely shocked to find these headaches can stop The medical profession still can seem unsure about Chiropractic, however I find the Equine Vets are vastly different and embrace us Chiropractors in the aim of achieving the same goal of making life better for our 4-legged patients
What advice would you give to horse owners who are considering chiropractic care for the first time?
Check who you are using and that they are properly qualified and insured, often recommendation from a knowledgeable horse person is a good way forward but still make the checks Chiropractor is actually a protected title, anyone using this should be registered with the statutory body, The Chiropractic Council
However, it is worth noting that this refers only to treatment of humans and currently there are no statutory bodies for therapists who treat horses, I come across people referring to themselves as Chiropractors when they are not which can be worrying Any therapist, Chiropractor or otherwise must ask you to obtain consent from your Vet prior to them being able to treat your horse, remember this as it’s very important should you have a problem. To conclude, it can be a minefield out there - do your homework and choose carefully for your horse!
How can owners ensure they are choosing a qualified and experienced equine chiropractor?
As mentioned there are no current statutory bodies for Equine Therapists, this leaves us open to therapists making claims about who they are and what they can do. I trained as a Chiropractor for 5 years in order to be able to use the title legitimately and to treat people Amazingly, if I chose to, I could go on to treat horses with no further training! However, I trained with world’s main Animal Chiropractic training providers, the International Academy of Veterinary Chiropractic They run courses worldwide headed by the very best and experienced Vets and Chiropractors - in addition they will only accept fully qualified Chiropractors or Vets into their course, which gives owners peace of mind So remember to check, if they call themselves a chiropractor they will have a GCC registration number and check they have done valid post graduate equine training And remember to enjoy your horse, we are very lucky to have such wonderful creatures in our lives
Isabelle covers Home Counties - London, Bedforshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Hertfordshire, Hampshire, Oxfordshire, Surrey and Essex and surrounding areas on request
vet-chiropractor.co.uk
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Understanding the behind-the-scenes work that benefits both horse and human.
Contributor and owner of Paige Beattie
Digital Marketing and Management
Paige Beattie Msc, BSc, GMBPsS
Looking after a horse isn’t just a task; it’s a commitment that requires time, care, and genuine respect for their wellbeing. True equine care often involves a number of individuals behind the scenes too. Sadly, not everyone who claims to care for horses truly understands what that responsibility entails - or treats it as the friendship it should be However, for those that do understand, every moment spent is worth it
Caring for a horse isn’t just about keeping up appearances or social media likes; it’s about building a bond based on trust, respect, and a genuine commitment to their well-being
I am so grateful to have a vast and supportive team around Blake and I - which seems to grow bigger and bigger by the day!
I guess this article is going to be a mix of me highlighting the different types of professionals behind-the-scenes whilst also giving a shoutout to the ones that have specifically supported me, because I think it is important to acknowledge them!
I have managed to keep Blake barefoot so I have a podiatrist (Catherine Bradley - Fit For A Queenie) who comes every 5-6 weeks Honestly I didn’t think I’d learn so much about my horse just by paying attention to his feet - from ‘trauma lines’ to subtle spikes in sugar level which leads to footiness
I’m extremely lucky to be sponsored by Global Herbs - 100% natural supplements which help Blake’s diet mimic what he’d naturally find in the wild. You don’t need countless products for a healthy horse - just listen to what your horse needs For Blake, that’s his supplements and a handful of chaff, which is enough to keep him thriving. He also has a pollen and dust allergy that didn’t respond to conventional treatments, but Global Herbs' PollenEx worked wonders for him and eventually led to our sponsorship! I also offer Blake self-selection herbs and herbal teas, giving him the freedom to choose what he needs. If you’d like to try the products by Global Herbs you can get 20% off using code GHPB20!
I’d love to say that you can own a horse and not ever have to call a vet - however, I’d be lying! I was extremely lucky with Blake for the first couple developed allergies, a respiratory infection, stomach ulcers and slight lameness issues all in the same of years and then he suddenly year! thanks for that!
I am extremely lucky to have a good relationship with my vet - Stringer Equine! I am a selfconfessed overthinker/worrier and will admit that I probably call them more often than others would but I want to make sure he’s okay! They have always supported me and not once made me feel silly for calling! Fancy some feet pics?
Closely related to this is physio/chiropractic therapy I normally have Blake done once a month and can notice the difference! Carole from Lowton Equine Rehabilitation has worked wonders with Blake. He’s always been wonky (right pelvis dropped and undermuscled on the right side of his body as a result of this). Regular treatments have evened him out and whilst I am not sure any horse is truly ‘straight’, he’s much more balanced and comfortable in himself
Oh, and whilst we are on the subject of ‘straightness’ I also see a soft tissue therapistKPL Soft Tissue Therapy - and this has helped me no end with my own wonkiness and lower back pain! I can’t really expect Blake to be straight and balanced if I’m not.
As a photographer myself, I am especially grateful for those that often spend hours out in the cold and then even more time behind the computer Initially I was trained by ESP Photographic who were incredible! Now, I own my own business and even have a sponsor myself - Martha Morgan photography which is just amazing!
It’s also important to acknowledge the livery yard owners/grooms, trainers, the callers, stewards, judges, venue organisers, bit fitters (Charlotte Warman), saddle fitters (massive shoutout to Kerry Boyd!) and probably countless others that I have forgotten to include in this list! Without all of these people I certainly wouldn’t be in the position I am in today!
In a nutshell, it takes a lot of people behind the scenes to ensure that both horse and rider are happy and healthy! It wouldn’t be an article by me if I didn’t mention something about mental health: All these people individually contribute to a healthy and welcoming environment in the horse world - and if they don’t, you can change this! Life is way too short for toxicity and negativity and quite frankly it’s not nice for the horses either Don’t be afraid to stand up for your horse if you feel something isn’t right! They don’t have a voice, but we do!
"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."
- Maya Angelou
Whether you're a business owner seeking to expand your reach or a rider aiming to secure sponsorship, I can help you build a strong, engaging online presence that sets you apart. With expertise in digital strategy, social media, and content creation, I’ll work with you to connect authentically with your audience, showcase your unique strengths, and grow your brand with impact. PHOTOGRAPHY | VIDEOGRAPHY | SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT ADMINISTRATION | BOOKINGS, CALENDAR & EVENT MANAGEMENT WEBSITE IMPROVEMENT
The British Grooms Association (BGA) represents and supports grooms working across various equestrian disciplines in the UK. Founded to give a voice to the often-overlooked professionals in the equestrian industry, the BGA operates as social enterprise and a vital resource for grooms at every stage of their careers.
The BGA provides practical tools, career advice, and representation for all grooms. Members can access benefits such as:
Insurance options (e.g., personal accident and freelance liability coverage)
Legal support and employment advice, including templates for contracts and letters
Professional development tools like a CV creator and e-learning courses
Mental health resources through the "Grooms Minds" initiative
Networking and job-finding support via a grooms' jobs board
The BGA supports all individuals working hands-on with horses, from employed and freelance grooms to volunteers and apprentices. Its inclusive membership is available to anyone over 16 and ensures everyone can access the same level of support, no matter their employment situation.
BGA Membership is so more than just access to resources; it's about being part of a community that champions the rights and recognition of grooms. By joining, members contribute to ongoing advocacy efforts that promote Good Employment throughout the equestrian industry, including fair wages, safe working environments, and respect for their profession. Additionally, the peace of mind that comes from tailored insurance and professional support is invaluable for many members.
“The BGA is the professional membership organisation for all that work with horses. It is critical for grooms to have their own organisation to belong to and a voice to represent them in the equestrian industry.” Lucy Katan, Executive Director For more details and to join, visit the British Grooms Association
by: Cathrin Schutt
Francesca Manley has spent her life surrounded by horses since she was 3 years old. She grew up on a farm riding the neighbours horses and helping out in the stables whenever she could. After finishing school she went on to study horses at Merrist Wood collage where she achieved an equine business management degree. She went on to specialise in dressage from the age of 20, going to work at an international dressage stable near Brighton where her love for grooming and organisation bloomed.
Francesca moved to Germany at the age of 22 and split her time living between the USA and Germany for the 4 years to follow. She became an international groom, travelling to top shows across the world for 15 years. At the age of 34 Francesca started riding for Team Filipe Fernandes, a team of Friesian horses in a show called Cavalluna.
Cavalluna is a theatrical performance like Cirque de Soleil, but with horses and dancers. It’s a beautiful presentation of skilled horses and riders taking you through a breathtaking story that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, even non-horsey people. There are 60 horses and 25 riders taking part in the performance, touring all over Europe for 9 months of the year.
How did you first get into the world of professional grooming and equestrian shows?
When I left school all I knew was - I loved horses, and I had no idea what to do with my life, so I went to Merrist Wood college to study horses, leaving with Equine Business management Degree. There, I met my amazing trainer Ella-Louise Mayhead who trusted me with her horses. She gave me ride on Tirclyn Sportsman, a Welsh section D, who everyone stopped me to asked if he was a Friesian. I took Sporty to do an apprenticeship at Dane Rawlin’s yard, where unfortunately I fell off and broke my leg and lost a lot of confidence. This is where my passion for international show grooming and stable management blossomed. I absolutely loved organising everything for the international shows, and would spend hours packing, organising and cleaning the lorry. I just loved it.
I have such fond memories or laying in the back of the truck in a sleeping bag at 3am, Coldplay and Tracy Chapman blasting out over the speakers on our way to Dover for the ferry crossing. From here I went on to meet Susie Dutta, American rider who taught me so much over the 4 years I spent with her as a travelling groom and stable manager. I lived in the US for half the year, and Germany the rest, always avoiding winter and travelling to all the top shows like Aachen, Horses and Dreams, WEF (Wellington, Palm Beach) etc.
What led you to work with Cavalluna, and how has your experience been so far?
I was working as a groom for a professional rider based full-time in Germany at this point, where I began dating a Portuguese Rider, Filipe Fernandes.
Filipe trained and rode for Portuguese Master Louis Valanca for 15 years, and rode on the Cavalluna (previously called Apassionata) tour since he was 16. Filipe got the opportunity to build a team of horses (Friesians) for the show. Being his girlfriend at the time, I utilised my horse knowledge, connections and organisational skills to support him in building the new team from the ground up.
After our romantic relationship ended, our work relationship and friendship continued, and I went to work for him as a full-time rider, truck driver and stable manager/ groom. I developed such a deep connection to every horse we brought into the team, I knew everything about every one of them, and loved taking cared of them and getting to know their individual personalities.
It was a rocky road in the beginning! I quit my full-time job, and started the tour, then unfortunately after 4.5 months Covid hit and put a stop to the tour for 2 years. Apart from it being financially crippling for so many, our team included, it was the best thing for my riding career. Until this point grooming and horse care been my strongest point. After spending 6 months with the Friesians waiting for the tour to start, we realised it wasn’t going to happen anytime soon. Unfortunately we had to sell some of my babies and re-structure the team. I went off to spent 8 months riding bootcamp with German Olympic Rider Ulla Salzgeber. I was lucky enough to take my favourite horse, Pumpkin with me to recover after his castration and continue his training.
Why is Pumkin called Pumkin?
I picked up Pumkin on Halloween and he has a long Dutch name that I couldn’t pronounce, he was cute, round and fluffy so I started calling him Pumkin and the name just stuck.
How has your career evolved since starting with Cavalluna, particularly working with Friesians?
Pumkin was only 5 when we got him, and 6 when he started doing simple numbers in the show. He was always very complicated to ride, and way too difficult for me to present him in the shows in the more advanced numbers, but I created such a bond with him, he was like my pet. This year in the new tour Pumkin will be my horse to present to two stunning numbers, showing piaffe, passage, canter pirouettes, half-passes and extended trot. It’s a dream to me to have evolved so much as a rider to feel confident and competent to be able to present Pumkin in the show, especially as this year is a Grand Moments tour, showing the best numbers from the last 5 tours in a beautiful story.
The first time I ever went to Cavalluna to watch the show, I watched the number we will be riding this year ‘The Dream’ being created, and I remember thinking “what a dream to be able to be part of the show” and now to be able to ride this number, with my most special horse is very emotional for me, literally a dream come true.
When I started with Cavalluna, I was a professional groom on the top level, but knew nothing about the special treatment Friesians need. This I have learnt over the years on the job by reading, asking and trial and error.
What do you enjoy most about your dual role as both a rider and groom?
Being both a rider and groom is amazing as it allows me to build a close connection to my horses and carry that connection over into the saddle. Each horse has such a different personality, spending so much time with them, I am able to recognise every tiny sign they give me, that they need/want something or pick up any discomfort they might have and support them as best I possibly can to make them comfortable again. Knowing each horse so well, allows us to recognise what each horse needs and develop individual fitness program specially adapted to each horses needs.
Friesians are known for their majestic appearance and temperament. How is it working with them both as a groom and a rider?
Friesians are very special horses, they really thrive on one-on-one connection. We have a team of 5 horses and 5 riders. Each rider has their own horse to take care of and ride in the show. We all create a special bond with our horses. My boy Pumkin knows when we arrive in the morning, he’s waiting with his head out, listening for the sound of the engine and answering me when I call his name. Taking care of their long manes can be a challenge especially after 4 shows on a weekend!
What unique care or grooming routines are essential for Friesian horses, especially those involved in shows like Cavalluna?
There are two things to consider when taking care of Friesians that’s different from other competition horse. The mane and the skin!
The manes are long and flowing, a key feature of Friesians. Taking care of the mane is a skill I’ve been developing over the past 6 years. To be honest, it’s a real challenge doing what we do, and keeping the manes in good condition. Each horse differs, some have long manes, and strong, thick hairs, some have light fluffy strands, and all of them get worse if the horses are castrated. Therefore, we have different methods of plaiting them for the night and to keep them in good condition, its not one method fits all. During a typical show weekend we have to open and close the manes up to 6 times. This inevitably put strain on the long hairs but unfortunately is unavoidable. As a general rule, we wash them with shampoo and conditioner once per week, let them drip dry, put conditioning spray in when they are wet. DO NOT BRUSH WHEN WET! Once mostly dry, plait them to keep them protected when in the stable, and some wear specially made hair socks to keep them clean, especially if they like to use poo pillows in the night.
Skin! Many Friesian suffer with fungus infections, mud fever and Mallenders, a skin condition causing thickened scabs and crusts on the horses legs. Mostly it’s a management issue rather than a cure.
We stay on top of the issues by keeping the legs clipped out all year round. We just leave the long hair on the back of the fetlock not to lose the Friesian features, but I found that it’s much easier to keep the skin healthy just by keeping the hair clipped short. A couple of my horses that develop the worst conditions, need clipping every 7 to 10 days, the others can go up to 3 weeks. I find that washing with an anti-bacterial wash, towel drying is generally enough, but some need Sudocream to keep the skin soft and supple, and worse cases, need a special cortisone cream proscribed by the vet but as we keep on top of the daily care, that happens rarely.
You performed with Friesian stallion Fred at All Steps Formation Gala event, how was your experience?
Performing with Fred was something really special for me. I honestly believe Fred loved being on stage. He was 100% with me, listening and reactive to everything I asked of him, I could feel him grow under me and showing off to the audience. He has now gone over to Germany to be part of our team in the Cavalluna show where he’s thriving.
I lived in Germany for 15 years, and now have very limited horse connections in the UK. Being able to make connections, find a top horse and create a beautiful number for the show was an amazing opportunity for me. I am used to riding as part of a team in shows that are prepared for our team to ride. In the All Steps show, I had the opportunity to create everything from the ground up. Its was a simple but effective number, with really powerful music and costumes showing the quality movements of the horses we were presenting. We went with Pirates of the Caribbean theme and I even roped my boyfriend into the performance. The feedback from the audience was so touching. Riding alongside Jess Perry was great fun, even when it wasn’t always going to plan, we laughed our way through and I think the audience could feel our connection with each other and the horses we were presenting. Its given me the taste to be creative, and I am now currently in the process of creating some new numbers for Mia Rodley’s Heart of Horsemanship Christmas show on the 18th December at Merrist Wood college, so watch this space!
How do you manage the physical and mental well-being of Friesians involved in high-energy performances?
The tour is a lot of travel for the horses but we do our best to give them the best possible care we can. All the horses go out of the box 2 to 3 times a day during the week, when at home - with a combination of fields, walking machine, sand paddocks, lunging or riding. Our horses know their jobs, so we keep training to a minimum and prioritise movement for fitness and stretching for suppleness. All our horses go in the fields, even the stallions. The geldings go in the fields together as I think its important to let them be horses and form connections with each other. They give us so much and I want to make their lives as good as possible. They perform in the shows at the weekends and travel on Fridays and Mondays.
After work we use ice packs on their legs, clay to cool and restore the tendons and ligaments at night and hot/cold gel for the joints. All our horses are given natural supplements like Devils Claw to help relieve any tension after the performances.
Could you walk us through your daily routine when caring for the Cavalluna Friesians, both in terms of grooming and general welfare? We try to give the horses a balance or enough movement for suppleness and fitness, as well as rest during the week.
At the weekends we arrive at each city on Friday at 5pm, where we prepare the stables with shavings and straw, top quality hay and fresh water. The stable tents have heating so the horses stay warm all winter. Our Friesians love the fresh air so we always leave the windows open. They wear light rugs to keep any wind off their backs and muscles warm. We walk them by hand after the trip, then dinner and bed to rest. We have a night guard who monitors all the horses and have hay and water topped up through the night.
Saturday mornings we often have a rehearsal or a free training where we stretch the horses after the trip.
After that we go to do makeup and prepare ourselves for the show whilst the horses rest and each lunch.
We then groom the horses, with a final pass of a hot towel to make them shine and oil on their eyes and nose. The last thing we do is put the boots or bandages on, and as soon as we have finished they are the first things to be removed so the legs can cool as quickly as possible.
We usually have 4 performances per weekend, 2 Saturday and 2 Sunday. After the shows the horses rest the night and travel back home on Monday mornings. We always stable them next to the same neighbour and when on the truck they stand in the same order so they create a strong bond with each other and feel comfortable and relaxed in their surroundings.
What grooming techniques are crucial for keeping Friesians in top condition for performances, especially given their distinctive long manes and tails?
I always spray the manes and tails with conditioner when they are wet and leave them to dry before brushing. When hair is wet it’s more likely to break than dry hair. When plaiting the mane, never pull the hair from the bottom of the neck upwards, it always has to go towards the base of the neck and be loose enough that when the horse puts its neck down the hair doesn’t pull so tight it breaks. This is not only important for the hair breakage, but also the comfort of the horses.
The cut of the blankets is very important. The blankets can not go too high up the neck that they lay on the mane and rub them, but also need to be wide enough on the chest that they don’t rub their shoulders. The best ones I’ve found so far are from Eskadron. They have fur around the neck and splits in the shoulders suitable for the typical Friesian front end.
I like to cut the tails regularly. It’s like our hair, if you let it get too long you get spit ends and broken strands. If you keep trimming it regularly, then it grows in much better conditions. I cut my horses tails a little bit around every 2 months.
Are there any products or grooming tools that you swear by for Friesian horses? Clippers! That’s my most important tool for keeping the legs and skin healthy. Towels. Towels are my favourite piece of the grooming kit. I use them to ensure legs are kept clean and dry after washing. It’s important not to cross contaminate the towels used on any mud fever or skin infections as they can be passed.
Each of our horses has a fresh towel only for them, and changed daily. I also use towels for a final polish of the horses before the performance to lift off the dust, and to clean the nose and mouth. Then there is an additional towel for cleaning the sweat and grease off the bridles and our boots! There are so many uses for a towel!
What advice would you give to aspiring grooms?
Follow your dreams, ask questions, look around to see what older, more experienced grooms are doing. If you get the opportunity to work in America go for it! It’s a whole other world out there and the quality of care is leaps and bounds above what’s provided in Europe.
What has been the most rewarding part of your journey in the equestrian world so far?
I have several things I’m very proud of. Grooming at 5* shows like Aachen with horses I loved was very rewarding. The first time I rode out the door on stage at Cavalluna is another, but being able to continually improve my riding and performance is just amazing. My next upcoming achievement will be in the 3rd week of October when I ride Pumkin in ‘ The Dream’ on stage for the first time.
What future goals or dreams do you have in your equestrian career?
Every time I ride the show I try to do my numbers the best I can. Every time is slightly different and teaches you something new about myself and my horse. My goal is to keep learning and improving, it’s what makes me happy.
I also want to use the opportunity with the upcoming show in December to create something I’m equally proud of as I was with the pirate number. I’ve got a taste for it now and I can’t wait to see what comes together. I’m going to try a new black and white Friesian cross soon so hopefully that works out for the new show.
By: Faye O’Hara
Photos by: Charmian Haigh
The summer season got off to a fantastic start with Majestic - the new seat made the world of difference I was winning the dressage, I found him so difficult as friesians are the like slinky’s they can bend in ways most horses can’t and my limitations no core strength and no right hand function made this difficult However, the seat giving me more support and after the lesson and him becoming more schooled and straight my cones had also improved, everything was improving I was so happy. However not long after Allerton Park In August, I was at home just sat in my bedroom and I leant forward to reach for something, I have no core strength at all you will see my chair is always tilted back to give me more stability so that I don’t fall out, but as I leant forward I heard something snap under my chair the next thing the footplates were on the floor all my body weight was going through my feet the frame of the chair
had snapped and there was no way I could fling myself back up I knew I was hitting the floor I remember sitting on the floor thinking this isn’t good, I cannot get back up - what the hell am I going to do I rang my dad and Natalie to see who was closest, Nat rushed straight up followed by my dad, I said to them both ‘’I bet I have broken my knee’’ I was adamant I will have as I fell off Majestic a couple of years ago and broke it in 2 places, they explained with me being paralysed and not using my legs for so long I have brittle bones and I needed to be careful as it would break again.
I have no sensation so I was checking for swelling and there was none so I thought I had gotten away with it - the relief I had until they managed to get me off the floor and on to the bed and I seen my opposite leg at the bottom really didn’t look healthy it was so swollen deformed and very black and purple My whole heart sank I thought ‘’no no please don’t say its broken everything is going so good for one’’, I felt I was on the right path finally I had a competition booked that weekend with Majestic - I really wanted to carry on I kept looking at it thinking no maybe its just bruised, let’s see how it goes but the more I looked I knew I needed to go to hospital. 4 X-rays later it was well and truly broken I had snapped both bones in the bottom of my leg, they explained it was a very severe break and I will be in pot for 8 weeks I was just gutted - I’d finally had a seat made, id been getting training and I finally felt like me and Majestic could get somewhere. And now yet again another set back On top of this id scraped all down the back of my right thigh so It wasn’t a good idea to be sat on it so I had to lay in bed on my side for 7 days with my ankle elevated with as little pressure on the back of my leg as possible. I can’t describe how lost and heart broken I was Ria had given her notice and said she was leaving at the end of September and was wanting to take a new path which I fully support, we were now at the end of July, I have a broken leg, a broken chair that’s costing thousands to fix and I needed to find a new partner to help me with Majestic and competitions my head was a total mess. It was very unlikely I was going to get to another competition of the Summer Season.
After a week in pot and the graze to my leg healed I went back to hospital and there was a further Faye like drama, because I can’t feel the leg I couldn’t be in pot I needed to be in a boot so that I could check it wasn’t rubbing but a boot isn’t really ideal for the severity of the break but we didn’t want any further complications So I had to go for weekly Xrays and skin checks After adapting my chair so that I could still get about, but elevate my leg Me and my friend met up with some of her friends and we got talking about me needing someone to help me and Nick seemed interested. He schooled a lot of horses was in the showing world so agreed to start riding Majestic 3x a week for me whilst Im unable to drive to keep him ticking over for me From there he has come on board to be my right arm and also back step and help school Majestic under saddle - this is massive as schooling under saddle really helps the horse, I’ve never had anyone to be able to do this and to be honest it’s something that still frustrates me that I cannot do, but I have to get pass that look and what’s good for Majestic and me and we all need a little help. I am truly looking forward to what we will achieve together as a team and it’s nice to have someone competitively minded However, In the middle of all this I have a built in floor lift from my living room down stairs to my bedroom and as I was going up to my bedroom, the lift stopped around 4 foot from the top And hour later the lift engineer came out and couldn’t get it working, I had to call a few friends who managed to get ratchet straps around my chair which weighs 24 stone before me and lift me out, it then took 3 days to fix, so I was stuck upstairs all that time.
In this time I tried taking up drawing, I like a challenge - I was right handed so using my left I actually didn’t do bad, but it was definitely a short lived hobby that passed the time, there was no adrenaline Also my car that is highly adapted and customised for me to drive with one arm has needed repairing and has been at the garage for 7 weeks so I was trapped I cannot get in others cars so I have more or less been stuck, however they have given us a wheelchair accessible vehicle other people can drive and I just sit in the back, I absolutley hate it and its not always easy to get drivers. So I can say it has been a horrible few months But, after speaking to Fred whilst all this has been happening he suggested that I take on the indoors with Majestic through the winter, I started doing the indoors last winter with my pony Frankie, as he’s only 12.2 and they are much tighter, but now we have a better seat and Majestic is going well, he suggested I gave it ago as it will help up his fitness for next year and will challenge me and my driving. He encourages me to drive as many different horses as I can as it will improve driving and agreed to also make me a seat on my pony carriage Therefore I am taking on the indoor season with both Majestic and my pony and really hope to qualify for the British Indoor Championships in April Luckily we have had this wheelchair accessible vehicle so we got me and Majestic to the first indoor competition of the season and won best dressage of the day and won all 3 phases in novice horse. So after an awful few months we have got straight back into it, we have a new back step and team mate with Nick Burnett,
my friend and her boy have joined the sport and we have become a fantastic team with the same interest and I am now ready and focused to really take on the indoor season
My life has constant set backs and it’s difficult but its about finding the positives within and ensuring the come back is always bigger and better than the set back Since then I have been to 3 competitions on Majestic winning the dressage each time and only knocking 1 ball at the first 2 and managed to bag my first clear round at the last one. Obstacles have always been the biggest challenge to me and loosing by miles in times, however the last one - I am literally a couple of seconds off, but I have made a few driver errors. We are definitely making the come back bigger and better than the set back it’s a huge team effort that has to be driven by me But I have to say a huge thanks to a fantastic team of people that have got me through since July, Natalie Drake Tj Barrett Nick Burnett Cheryl Hudson Mikey Wright Henry Wright Neat Sharrock and Donna Joyce. For changing the goal post in my driving Fred Pendlebury the support and belief From Beryl Pendlebury and Pat Cooper, my sponsor and support James Canning Farrier & Equestrians Choice it all helps and to you UK Friesian Federation for covering our story to prove anything is possible and showcasing the amazing breed and Kate Tora for all your continued support Let’s hope I can continue to improve and not have any major dramas for a while.
Inspired by his father, also a farrier, Samuel spent his childhood weekends and holidays at stables, learning and working alongside him. Today, Samuel is not only a skilled farrier but also a social media sensation, reaching millions with videos of his craft. In this interview, he shares his journey, insights into the profession, and his passion for promoting the often-overlooked art of farriery to a global audience
“I never expected people to be so interested in what I do, but I love it. Helping horses perform at their best and relieving their pain—it’s incredibly rewarding.”
Can you tell us a little about how you got started in the farrier profession? What drew you to this line of work?
I started off the in trade early, my dads a farrier too and I grew up going to work with him on the school holidays and weekends. You could say I was born to be a farrier as it’s all I ever known. I always loved being around the horses and helping my dad so when I left school, I went straight to work for him.
What do you find most rewarding about being a farrier? Are there any particular challenges that come with the job?
I find helping horses perform at their bestgreat job satisfaction and also helping horses suffering from lameness, this is the most satisfying part- fixing issues and providing comfort to the horse again.
The hardest part for me can be my back, I’m a busy farrier and often experience a lot of fatigue, at times it’s hard to find balance with that.
Your social media presence has exploded, with one of your videos with Friesian horse reaching over 9 million views. How did you first decide to start sharing your work on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook
I started making social media at first as just a personal portfolio of my work and sharing my point of view on how I go about my treatment. I never expected people to be so interested in it, it’s a complete surprise to me! But love it now, I’m so happy so many people find it interesting. I really enjoy making content now and hopefully it promotes the industry and motivates more people to get into the trade
Did you ever expect that your content would resonate so widely? What do you think makes your videos so captivating for viewers?
No, not at all! I think people like to watch as it’s a very satisfying process shoeing a horse - start to finish and also it’s people that don’t even have horses they have never seen it before - as previously there’s not a lot of farrier content being made.
Has your social media success influenced your business? Have you seen an increase in clients or opportunities as a result
Yes for sure! I’m very flattered so many people ask me to do their horses, I was full with clients before hand with my dad running the business for 45 years, I don’t have room really for more, but I always try my best to get as many horses sorted as possible!
Your work involves a range of farrier services, from shoeing to hoof care. Can you walk us through a typical day in your life as a farrier
I usually wake up about 5:30 then I train about 6am which helps with my back and keeps me fit for work, then I get to the first yard for 8am and shoe an average of 8-15 horses a day from shoeing to barefoot
How do you stay updated with the latest techniques and tools in farriery? Are there any new trends or innovations that you’re particularly excited about?
I’m always keen to learn newest methods, I read a lot of books, watch videos and message other farriers asking how they’ve done things etc. There’s always something new to learn. I really enjoy going out and shadowing other farriers to learn their methods too.
I really like the new 3D printed hoof pads they are great peace of kit to have in the van when you need to give the horses more caudal support or help with hpa
Friesian horses are known for their unique build and movement. What specific challenges or considerations come into play when shoeing Friesians?
Yes for sure - Friesians are beautiful animals one of my favourite breeds. They need to be shod well to make sure they maintain their beautiful action, I find with a lot of Friesians it’s important to keep their hind feet well balanced so they don’t brush and also to promote the best action possible.
Do you have any tips or best practices for Friesian owners when it comes to hoof care?
Make sure they are on a good cycle 4-6 weeks no longer, maybe differs from horse to horse as they all are individual. Also to make sure their hooves are well picked out everyday when they come in.
What are some common mistakes or misconceptions you’ve noticed among horse owners regarding hoof care?
Not keeping up to their hooves or picking them out, people overlook how important this is - also it’s very important you get the horse trimmed from being a foal. It’s vital to ensure their conformation is correct while their bones are growing, if the hoof has an imbalance it can cause the bones to be growing imbalanced as a result. This will cause bad conformation, so getting your farrier to come visit your horse from young is vital, people sometimes don’t realise this till it’s too late, the lower limb bones growth plates seal at 12 months and then there’s nothing you can do after to correct this.
For those who are new to horse ownership, what basic hoof care routines would you recommend to keep their horses healthy and sound?
Diet is very important, making sure the horse gets what it needs to keep them healthy and promote good quality hoof and growth also to make sure they don’t spend too much time in wet muddy conditions, as this is detrimental for the hooves. A good hoof balm/oil is great too
With your growing popularity, do you have any future plans or goals for expanding your business or social media presence?
I’m currently making longer content on YouTube doing regular uploads twice a week.
I really enjoy this, it gives me a better platform to explain a lot more things in detail! Also, I have released my own hoof care product Swfarriers hoof skin which is on sale on my website
Looking back at your journey so far, what’s the most memorable experience you’ve had as a farrier?
Definitely passing my exams to qualify as a registered farrier here in the UK you have to do a 4 year course overcoming various exams to receive your diploma, also building a business to the success it’s at right now
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to aspiring farriers who are just starting out?
Learn as much as possible, don’t think you know everything Never be afraid to be unsure on things and ask for help of senior farriers with more experience, most senior/ knowledgeable farriers are always happy to help you and provide some feedback, this is a great way to learn. Also, next time your faced with something tricky you’ll know what to do Pace yourself too, don’t shoe too many horses too soon, early on in your career look after your back if you don’tyou’ll pay for it later
Lastly, outside of work, how do you like to spend your time? Any hobbies or interests that might surprise your followers?
I train a lot, I love fitness - I enjoy running marathons and strength training too, I also enjoy the hyrox competitions. Apart from that I lay on the coach and let my back rest up for when I go back to work haha I don’t have a lot of free time outside of work as being a farrier is more a lifestyle then a job.
Paul Orchard has captured the essence of equestrian sports for years. Inspired by his father’s passion for photography and his wife’s love for horses, Paul found his niche in equine photography. Today, he’s one of the most respected photographers in the UK’s equestrian community, renowned for his work at iconic events like Hickstead and the Horse of the Year Show.
What initially drew you to photography, and how did you decide to specialise in equine and carriage driving photography?
My father was a very keen photographer so I learnt the basics from him, then when my wife got a Pony on loan and started showjumping she wanted pictures.
You've photographed numerous major horse shows and events. Are there any particular moments or events that stand out to you? County shows are always great shows to photograph, but my favourite shows to photograph at are Hickstead and the very best is Horse of the Year Show
What are some of the biggest challenges you face when photographing horses and carriage driving events?
The biggest challenge is staying safe and not impeding the competitors during the competitions, this is tricky when trying to get the very best pictures.
Do you have a favorite photograph or a particular show/event that you’ve worked on? If so, what makes it special to you?
It would be very difficult to pick a favourite picture as I cover so many equine disciplines but without hesitation Horse of the Year Show is my favourite show.
Are there any upcoming projects or events you're particularly excited about?
I have recently come to an arrangement with the Carriage Association of America to provide them with images from UK events and shows for their magazine publication which is very exciting as that means my images will be seen right across the United States.
You’ve taken many photos of Friesian horses. What do you find most captivating about this breed?
The elegance of the Friesian carriage horse is totally unique as they move in the most spectacular way, and are without doubt captivating to photograph
Do you have any memorable experiences or stories involving Friesian horses that you'd like to share?
Friesians are used extensively by funeral directors to pull traditional horse draw hearses, and I have on several occasions been asked to photograph certain funerals of very well-known equestrian personality’s on their final journeys, which has been an extreme honour and sometimes very emotional.
What advice would you give to aspiring photographers who want to enter the field of equine photography?
If you wish to be an equestrian photographer, I would suggest you start by going to any horse shows where you can spend time photographing the various horse classes from the ringside such as Showjumping and Showing classes This way you can begin to develop the type of pictures that competitors like, and if you are unsure about what style of pictures to take just look at the professional photographer’s pictures you can find online and you will soon find the type of pictures to take.
How do you feel your work contributes to the equine community and the broader appreciation of equestrian sports?
Having been a Showjumper and a Showing competitor myself and now having Carriage driving horses that my wife competes with on a National level I feel I have a very good inside knowledge on what the equine community like to see in the way of horse pictures.
One of the most important things that I aim for when taking equestrian pictures is “Planning” I will normally go to an event or show several hours before the show starts so I can gain any information that will help me to take good pictures. This will include walking a course of show jumps or a carriage driving cross country event to find the very best position for pictures. But one thing you need with equestrian photography that you can’t plan for is a large amount of Luck !
paulorchardphotography.co.uk
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One horse’s courageous battle with a keratoma and the dedicated care that saved her life.
Delia Jane Harris shares the remarkable story of her beloved mare, Vamps, who was diagnosed with a rare hoof tumor known as a keratoma while six months pregnant. This journey took Vamps from a sudden lameness on a winter morning to a delicate surgery and months of recovery. Against the odds, Vamps healed, delivered a healthy foal, and now enjoys a serene retirement. This story is a reminder of resilience, expert veterinary care, and the unbreakable bond between horse and owner
By: Delia Jane Harris
This is my story for which I am writing because of my experience with a Keratoma It all started on Tuesday 27th December 2022.
My stunning 17hh stud book mare Wamkje v d Olde Mette Moate (Vamps) was 6 months in foal and fit as a fiddle. That morning dawned like any other cold and wet winter’s day. After bundling the dogs with their wet weather coats into my car, we headed over to the farm to tend to my girl She’d usually be waiting for me at the gate wickering for her carrot, however today there was no sign of her, instead I found her in the middle of the paddock and was reluctant to move
Panic stricken I telephoned my veterinarian who said he’d be with me in about an hour.
After his initial examination he diagnosed an abscess within her front off fore hoof, which he treated as best he could and advised me to get her into a dry stable. The waterproof dressing won’t last long and the walk down to the stables took quite a while as she was very debilitated. He said he’d come back the following morning with a course of antibiotics and decided after another couple of days on box rest that X-rays would be a great help, so we went ahead and could see immediately the extent of the infection, as was suspected by the vet, travelling up towards her coronet band as she was showing signs of tenderness around that area. This proved to be the case but he also found there was shadowing on the dorsal hoof wall which at that time could have been an infection too
On 13th January 2023 more X-rays were taken, and although the shadowing was still evident, the vet advised a” hospital plate” should help her walk and this was fitted a month later
She immediately went very lame and cellulitis was pouring out of her leg, so the shoe was removed immediately and she was back on the antibiotics for a few days to aid pain relief and any new infection.
After several weeks of soundness, and everything looking good for her to be turned out my farrier was asked to fit a “deep toed shoe” this was so I could apply iodine soaked in gauze everyday to the toe area On 26th February she went lame again so this shoe was removed and an appointment was made for her to go to the equine hospital for investigation surgery. By now she was 9 months pregnant and the risk of her losing the foal under general anaesthetic was high, so, it was decided to operate with her standing and awake
I can’t imagine the stress this would have caused my girl as she saw everything they had to do over a long drawn out procedure They found what they were looking for and removed a large Keratoma within the hoof wall (A Keratoma is a rare type of benign tumour that grows inside the hoof. It originates from the horn producing cells, usually underneath the coronet and grows down the hoof along with the normal horn. When it reaches the white line area at the toe, it causes separation of the bond between the hoof wall and sole. Foals can be born with them, and live a normal life never showing any signs of lameness or abnormalities.)
After the operation was completed the veterinary surgeon applied a metal plate which was screwed across the open area of her hoof because of the risk to the hoof splaying. To keep this area off the ground a “heart bar shoe” was fitted with a thermoplastic guard under the hoof before she could be considered for release from the clinic
After several days in intensive care she was sound enough to travel, so on the 16th March Wamkje left the security of The Barn Equine Hospital to begin her recovery in Chelmsford under the expertise of the team from the local veterinary group
Her dressings had to be changed everyday and the area debrided from too much hoof growing over the open wound, which showed healthy horn underneath, this was encouraging and with a special “spiderweb” shoe fitted she was able to be turned out for a few minutes each day. The metal bar was also removed as the support from this shoe gave her hoof stability. I went up to see her as often as I could, and saw for myself the remarkable healing process and as the ground was now dry, she was able to be turned out onto the summer pasture, along with the sunshine on her back she recuperated almost fully. The stud where she was stationed for the foaling was amazing and with their nurturing she successfully delivered a colt foal on 19th May 2023 without any intervention from the vet or myself as I was present for the birth
She and I were reunited at home in September because of severe weight loss which we believe was due to nursing her hungry foal and the trauma from her ordeal over those awful months earlier in the year. She made a fantastic recovery and in under a month of coming home she had regained her beautiful black shiny coat and had put on condition along her top line much to my and everyone’s relief. It was decided she should have front shoes on for support which my farrier has been an absolute blessing, as she still needs expert hoof care The hoof is deformed from the removal of the Keratoma as there is a void within it, and this has changed the shape and size of the hoof, but she’s sound in walk, trot and canter which is in my opinion remarkable when you think back to where this all started
Wamkje just after arriving home
At over seventeen years old now and in retirement, she’s living her best life ever. we go for walks around the farm, sometimes I’ll ride her and others times, just going for a bumble around in hand is heaven for us both. I truly believe I could have lost her due to this awful disease, had it not been for all the experts for whom we put our trust into and for this I’ll be forever grateful with everyday being a blessing.
BY: Mr Jonathan Vickery. BVSc Cert AVP MRCVS. Director of The Barn Equine Surgery. Ringwood Road, Wimborne BH21 6RE
Keratomas are rare and are thickening of the hoof wall that extends inwards towards the bone. There are two types of keratoma: the classic columnarshaped appearance, that occurs parallel to the horn tubules and the spherical form which can occur anywhere. Most keratomas form in the front or dorsal aspect of the foot. They can be caused by a variety of reasons, the most common of which is localised inflammation or trauma to the coronary band (where the horn originates from) A second cause can be from a foot abscess. The keratoma is usually made up of poor quality horn and this can become decayed which allows infective agents like bacteria and fungi to enter the hoof capsule causing further abscess’. This is usually how they present at first Recurrent abscess; in a horse at the same points on the hoof should be assumed to be keratomas.
Diagnosis is usually made with a combination of the history of the horse (recurrence of abscess’) as well as visual examination and radiography. Sometimes the white line is disrupted by the growth of abnormal horn towards the sole.
Radiographically the pedal bone can present with lytic or dark areas where the keratoma has been applying pressure. These are usually very focal and have a sclerotic, or hardened, rim of bone at the edges and should not be confused with the natural crena
In rare cases conservative management can be done but it is often too far advanced at the time of diagnosis to achieve this Surgical management is the only option for resolution at this stage Two main principles have to be observed at this point. 1 –complete removal of the keratoma up to the root and 2 – hoof wall support Both the abnormal horn and laminae must be resected, and any infected bone removed A hospital shoe with a plate on the bottom or extended bars and clips should be placed on the foot to help with sterility
Surgery in this case was done standing as the mare was pregnant and it was done under aseptic conditions using a ring block around the fetlock joint. A tourniquet was applied to help with haemostasis and the keratoma was removed with the aid of a Dremel (for the outer part) and sterile hoof knives for the inner. All abnormal tissue was removed and the keratoma extended all the way to the coronet band
After completion of the operation a large pressure bandage was applied to the foot and the tourniquet was removed The bandage was changed daily and due to the extent of the removal a bridge was screwed over the defect to provide lateral support to the hoof. A wide toed heart bar shoe was placed on the foot with lateral and medial toe clips to further help support the foot. The mare was kept on box rest for 6 weeks and was then discharged
Surgery has a much better outlook than conservative management, and as long as the first principal is adhered to the success rate is around 83%. Complete resection, as in this case, does hold a lower prognosis and this was accounted for in the follow up treatment. However the overall prognosis for removal and return to soundness is good.
Emma Barrie and her beloved Friesian, Joey, overcame incredible odds to shine on one of equestrianism’s grandest stages.
Emma Barrie and her Friesian horse, Bryan Van Sp known as Joey captured hearts at the Royal Windsor Horse Show, competing in the PreSeniors Ridden Horse Exceeding 153cm Showing class. Their remarkable journey, marked by resilience and recovery from a life-threatening tooth infection, stands as a testament to the unbreakable bond between horse and rider
Emma, can you share with us how you first met Joey and what drew you to him?
I used to drive past him in his field everyday and would say to myself “I’d love that horse!” A pair of friesians drove me to the church on my wedding day and I had fallen in love with the breed The first time I met Joey was when his previous owner had advertised for a sharer I already had 2 horses, but I wanted to explore this idea just to spend time with him, but practically it wasn’t going to be doable
He was absolutely beautiful and had so much presence even just standing in a field. It wasn’t until a couple of years later, I had retired my old horse and was actively looking and viewing potential new horses when I got a call from his owner to say she needed to sell Joey
Within 24 hours my husband had bought him I didn’t really know much about him apart from the fact he hadn’t been schooled, he had just done some light hacking We walked him home and I remember feeling so lucky to have a Friesian in the stable!
Last year, Joey faced a severe tooth infection that nearly cost him his life.
Can you describe what that experience was like for both of you and family?
Joeys routine dental check up revealed some gum disease so he was booked in to hospital for 5 teeth extractions. The procedure went well and he had been recovering well at home. 4 weeks later my friend Tracey had brought the horses in and said to me that Joey was “off” and wasn’t himself. My vet, Carsten Skov, came out at 6pm that evening and discovered he had a chest infection so administered antibiotics and anti inflammatories and I was checking him every half an hour, he was doing ok, he just wasn’t happy. At 11pm I went to check and he was starting to colic Carsten was at the end of the phone and advised to get him to hospital straight away as it would be turning into pneumonia, but still made his way over to us as quick as he could He wouldn’t get up, we thought he wasn’t going to make it, he looked like he was giving up We were pleading with him and doing everything we could just to get him off of the floor He finally managed to get up and onto the trailer, we arrived at the hospital at 1am and had to leave him there not knowing if he was going to pull through.
The following day I got a phone call to say that he had bacterial pneumonia, due to the surgery weeks prior. They started him on antibiotics through IV, he was very quiet and wouldn’t eat or drink.
10 days went by and he hadn’t eaten or drunk anything, I was visiting him everyday trying to get him to eat different fruit and veg, even baby food squeezed into his mouth to tempt him to have some flavour in his mouth. Friends came with me a few times as everyone was so worried for him
How did you manage Joey's care and recovery during that challenging time?
After not eating for nearly 2 weeks, the vets at the hospital recommended he came home to see if that made a difference. So they gave Joey enough fluids to last him 48 hours and he came home for the weekend. It was said that if no improvement they would think about pts on the following Monday When he arrived home you could see he was excited to be back and a couple of times, quite tempted for grass but still, just sniffed the ground and wouldn’t eat At this point I was giving him his medicines 3 times a day. Sunday night came and I was dreading what the vets were going to say on the Monday morning.
My husband suggested looking at what is in these medicines he was on, so i was doing some research until early hours of Monday morning. The side effects of the chloramphenicol he was on included depression and anorexia which is exactly what Joey was expressing I didn’t give him his morning dose, I rung the hospital to update them of what I was supposing to do and what my gut was telling me to do By 10am he took his first mouthful of hay! Everyone was so relived and Joey started to look brighter!
What specific treatments and care did Joey undergo to overcome his health issues?
Joey’s eating was main priority at this point to get his immune system back on track and in turn, fight the rest of the infection off with his own immunity Carsten came back out to check his lungs and the level of bacteria and all was going well Up until this point I was having sleepless nights not knowing what the next day would bring.
Once Joey was on the mend, how did you approach his training to ensure he was ready for showing again?
As the pressure was off and Joey was gaining strength everyday, friends would say “do Windsor next year then” knowing it was something I’d wanted to do before he fell ill That was my new aim and something to focus on Tracey Lawson had been training us and I was keen to get him back to being fit enough even if it was just some light schooling and hacking. We started off very slow for a few weeks with some nice walks out in the woods and gradually built it up for when Tracey returned and then used lateral work in walk for our short workouts It was lots of good yoga excersise, the right foods, and lots of TLC Respect is key
How did you prepare for the Royal Windsor Horse Show?
Correct classical dressage ethics is the driving force behind all of Joeys training so we kept to what we usually do However, because Joey had never been out before, I had to get him out in an environment beforehand. There was dressage on at our local venue, Wellington riding Although this environment wouldn’t match Windsor he had fun and came 3rd in a big class. Joey is such a bold brave horse and gains trust as soon I get on so I knew he’d be ok.
Competing at the Royal Windsor Horse Show is a significant achievement. What was the experience like for you and Joey?
A memorable one!! Joey couldn’t stand still when we arrived, Tracey Lawson must have done 30,000 steps with him in the lorry park! Kim Emerson was our groom and turned him out to the best standard, so to have both of them there made the experience a breeze! A quick moving leg up and as soon as I was on Joey relaxed and completely put his trust in me He did me so proud in the warm up, suddenly surrounded by a very busy arena and he still rode like he was at home To get him there and for him to take it all in his stride was all I could have asked for
How did you feel when you realised you were competing at such a prestigious event after everything you both had been through?
Kim and I were walking Joey into the show ground and suddenly it hit us both at the same time and there were a few tears! His journey was a scary, lengthy and hugely rewarding one and the pride was indescribable walking in.
You mentioned having a large support team with you at the show. How important was this support to you and Joey during the event?
It was more important than they realise! It showed how many people cared and I think everyone was so excited to see him in full health in the ring My husband Carl had a big part in Joeys recovery and anything Joey needs he gets, so for him to watch with my son was a proud moment
For others who might be facing similar challenges with their horses, what advice would you give them based on your experience with Joey?
As we know, every horse is different. Some may respond to medication differently and I think it’s important to do the research, listen to your horse and go with your gut. Having a vet that you can trust and that will take time to really know the horse is invaluable.
How do you stay motivated and positive despite the setbacks and difficulties you have faced?
Horses have been my way of life since I was 2 so I think the motivation is purely pushed by the love for the horses If you face a setback, it is only temporary
What are your future plans for Joey in terms of showing and other equestrian activities?
We have proudly joined the Friesian Federation and enjoyed riding in a Gala event where Joey thought the audience were all there just for him, so I’m excited to take him to more of these events. We will do lots more dressage, currently working at elementary. And maybe go back to Windsor for a personal comparison and to take it all in a bit more the second time around
“I can read Joey like a book, and having a clear understanding of each other— and even laughing together— is so important to me.”
Are there any specific goals or events you are looking forward to in the near future?
My goals are always to improve and gain longevity in Joey Then anything else is a bonus, but I hope to get together with the friesian team very soon
Can you share a piece of wisdom or a lesson you have learned through your journey with Joey that has been particularly meaningful to you?
I can read Joey like a book and to have a clear understanding of each other and laugh together is so important to me but I think what has particularly stood out is, the work of the physio, vet, farrier, and trainer all being on the same page And having good people around mean the world You’ll never know everything so learning is wisdom.
(Groom
By Rachael Sivyer - Director of College of Saddle Fitting
How Understanding Friesian Anatomy and Movement can Transform
Comfort, Performance, and Well-being for both Horse and Rider
Friesian horses, with their impressive stature and elegant movement, are a breed admired for both their beauty and unique physical traits. However, fitting a saddle to suit their large, free-moving shoulders, wide, often flat withers, and short ribcage poses distinct challenges for owners and saddle fitters alike. “Friesians are late developers anatomically and can change shape dramatically as they mature,” explains Rachael Sivyer. “These changes mean owners might need more than one saddle as their horse grows, with regular checks to maintain comfort and ensure freedom of movement.”
Saddle fitting for Friesians is a highly specialized process, one that requires understanding the breed’s specific traits as well as the needs of the rider. Saddle must accommodate both horse and human without impeding movement. “If the saddle doesn’t fit properly, not only does it affect the horse’s movement, but it can lead to pain and behavioral issues—from bucking to reluctance to move forward,” says Rachael.
In this interview, Rachael provides essential insights into the best practices for saddle fitting Friesians, as well as advice on maintenance, the qualifications of fitting professionals, and the specific factors Friesian owners should consider to ensure their horse’s comfort and well-being.
We often see people asking for recommendations to fit saddles for friesian horses. Can you explain the specific anatomical considerations when fitting a saddle for a Friesian horse? How does it differ from other horse breeds?
The Friesian has a large, free moving shoulder, and in some cases, coupled with a short ribcage. This can present challenges when it comes to fitting a saddle as this combination doesn’t leave much space for the rider. This can be accentuated by a tall or larger rider.
The Fresian has an extravagant movement and generally a great level of flexibility, and in some cases hypermobility. If this is the case and the horse has a flat, very wide wither area, then keeping the saddle still can also be a challenge! The Fresian is a late developer anatomically speaking and can change shape dramatically, so be prepared to have regular saddle checks and potentially buy more than one saddle on the journey to maturity.
What are the common saddle fitting challenges or issues that Friesian horse owners may face, and how does your college address those challenges?
The Friesian horse with its large shoulder and shorter rib cage, can present owners with challenges such as finding a saddle that fits the horse well, but is also comfortable for themselves too. The tall rider can be challenged by the fact that the shorter length of saddle required for the horse may not give them enough room, finding themselves riding with their knee over the knee block and in front of the saddle flap.
The larger rider can also have a similar problem, as well as finding the seat a little too small in order to sit comfortably. The petite rider may also struggle but with the width of the saddle, finding it too wide to be comfortable due to the rider’s narrow hips, as the fit of the saddle corresponds to the width of the horse’s back. There are saddles available that can combat this by making the seat of the saddle narrower to fit the rider, while keeping the correct width of tree for the horse.
It is vital that the horse can be seen with the saddle fitted both statically and then dynamically under the rider.
The Friesian’s back can change dramatically under rider compared with the static fit, presenting a curved back statically, but then becoming flatter when ridden. Obviously, the fit of the saddle should correspond to the ridden shape of the horse.
The college teaches the principles of fitting different breeds, from thoroughbred, cob, and Friesian to name but a few.
Could you describe the ideal saddle fit for a Friesian (and any) horse?
Rules of Saddle fit
1. Saddle position. The tree points should sit behind the scapula to allow freedom of the shoulder.
2. Balance. The saddle should sit level and in balance. Does the saddle tip the rider back or tilt them forward?
3. Saddle Tree. This should correspond to the shape of the horse’s back.
4. Width. Even pressure with no impingement.
5. Angle. Even pressure with no impingement.
6. Wither clearance. Enough room to allow freedom with no impingement.
7. Channel clearance.
8. Panel pressure and contact. This should be even throughout.
9. Length. The saddle should not sit beyond T18 ( the last thoracic vertebrae).
What are the potential consequences or problems that can arise from using an ill-fitting saddle on a horse? How can proper saddle fitting contribute to the horse's wellbeing and performance?
A correctly fitting saddle is a matter of welfare for the ridden horse to ensure comfort and ensure that there is no impediment of movement. Physical damage to the back, including atrophy (muscle wastage), areas of white hair due to focal pressure, and reduced back movement causing compensatory, incorrect movement patterns due to pressure, discomfort or pain. Obviously if the horse’s movement is compromised in any way, then the well being and performance of the horse suffers. Behavioural issues can also be an indicator of a saddle issue:
Possible behaviours that may indicate a saddle issue:
Moving away when saddle presented
Objection to being saddled
Aggression - biting, kicking, face pulling, striking out, threatening
Dropping the back when saddled or mounted
Moving away whilst mounting
Withdrawn/shutdown
Reluctance to go forward
Refusing jumps/running out/rushing fences
Reluctance to use the back, inverted posture
Are there any specific saddle brands or models that you recommend for Friesians? What factors should owners consider when choosing a saddle?
It is difficult to recommend brands, as each horse is different, so one brand may not fit all as is true for any saddle fit. Obviously the tree should correspond to the shape of the horse’s back and be of the correct type, so a saddle that is made for a thoroughbred is unlikely to fit the anatomy of the Friesian!
It is essential to make sure the saddle fits the rider too, a comfortable balanced rider is easier to carry and can ensure clearer communication of the aids.
Can you explain the process of saddle fitting? How long does it usually take, and what steps are involved in ensuring an optimal fit?
Normally a saddle fit takes around 1 hour. We will take a history of the horse and rider and observe both statically. The horse will be walked and trotted in hand and the back will be palpated to ensure the horse is comfortable and ready to receive the saddle. Safety checks will be carried out on the saddle before selection. The saddle will be fitted and observed statically and under the rider. The saddle should be seen ridden at walk, trot and canter if safe to do so. If the saddle is going to be used for jumping, then completing a jump will also be required. Any adjustments will be made to ensure the optimal fit for both horse and rider.
What qualifications or certifications do your saddle fitting professionals possess? How can owners be assured of their expertise in fitting saddles for this particular breed?
Our certifications range from Level 3 Certificate, Level 4 Diploma and Level 5 Advanced Diploma. All of the courses are accredited with UK Rural Skills. We also hold horse owner days and a 2 day introduction course which give people the opportunity to practically fit a saddle. We also hold saddle flocking and repair courses. We offer advice on all things related to saddle fit including saddle pads, girth selection and any other related equipment and training aids.
How often should owners have their saddles re-evaluated or adjusted? Are there any signs or indicators they should watch out for that might indicate the need for re-fitting?
As a rule of thumb, every three months or sooner if the horse is growing or coming back into work. This is to ensure that any physical changes can be accommodated. If the saddle is moving around, feeling tight or is tipping the rider back or forward, the saddle will need to be looked at. If the horse is reluctant to move forward or just isn’t performing as usual, then the saddle should be checked. See behavioural list above.
Are there any specific training exercises or practices that owners can incorporate to support proper saddle fit and ensure the horse's comfort and well-being?
We recommend that owners enlist a good trainer for both in hand and ridden work to ensure that the horse has its individual requirements met for comfortable, progressive and enjoyable work. Correct muscle development will aid saddle fit and enable the horse to carry the rider with ease.
Good management of the horse makes for a happy healthy horse, so things such as daily turnout, hay fed from the floor to encourage correct posture and stretch, good quality ample forage and feed to name but a few.
Always keep up to date with dental checks and vaccinations, a good farrier is essential too. Regular physical therapy sessions will help to keep the horse in tip top condition, and can help flag up any potential issues. The rider can help the horse by keeping fit and flexible and ensuring that they are as straight as possible by keeping up with their own physical therapy, such as physiotherapy, massage, chiropractic etc.
21st APRIL
Hilary Vernon’s career began in traditional horsemanship, but her fascination with bits and tack set her on a path to specialisation. Through hands-on experience, she realised that creating and fitting the perfect bit could make a world of difference for horse comfort and performance. Hilary founded Informed Designs to meet this need, focusing on bit fitting as an art that supports both the horse and rider
‘’A horse thrives on kindness, routine, and the right tools. With a well-fitting bit, we’re not just training – we’re building a language of comfort and trust.”
Can you tell us about your journey into becoming a bit specialist and how Informed Designs was founded?
I came up through the BHS Pony Club and then took my Assistant Instructors Teaching Exam and did a lot of Free Lance teaching and rode and competed my own Horses a mix of TB and Connemara x and Anglo Arabs. Then ran a yard for a friend. Then I got offered a job running a tack shop. And from then on about 35 years ago I was fascinated by tack, leatherwork and Bits and Bitting I took over the first Bit Bank and ran it successfully for about 10 years. And was very lucky to be invited to all sorts of factories to look at tack and harness and Bits being made.
I try to keep up with my skills and do as many CPD days and go to clinics and I organise Pole work and Working Equitation and In Hand and Ridden Clinics every month on the yard I am on
Its so easy just to get Gordon out of his stable wander down to the school have a great session then wander back again No travelling for me !!
What inspired you to focus on bit design and fitting?
While running the Bit Bank I kept thinking if only I could put that mouthpiece onto that cheek instead. So I researched and found a company that could make bits for me to my design and then when I had made the bit I had to give the right information to clients of how it would work and how to fit it as I was at this time shop based and over the years as I came across Horses that seemed to need a Bit that I didn’t have I made one.
Why is proper bit fitting so important for horse welfare and performance?
In my opinion it is vitally important to use a conformationally comfortable bit that gives good understandable signals and very importantly good release and reward or how does the horse know it has done what you have asked of it If we keep up the same amount of pressure with out release and reward? If this is the case we are not able to train our Horses through the stages of encouraging them to be quicker to respond and to carry more of their own head weight and to be able to transfer more weight back.
A Horse is a creature of flight it is never going to respond well to uncomfortable tack and poor training methods,
But it will thrive on kindness and routine and good management practices and good training. It is up to us to implement all this.
What are the most common signs that a horse may be uncomfortable with its bit?
When you watch a Horse for instance going around a School a pleasing look would be that the Horse is in balance and going forward into its Bridle and Bit with a still and steady frame depending on its level of training A Horse that is uncomfortable with any aspect of its tack will not be able to do this.
Our degree of pull is from above the Horses mouth so the Horse only has to alter it frame to disengage from some or all the applied contact.
It could lift it head and come ears back towards the rider’s face.
It could hang out into the rein and feel solid or even heavy to the Rider. It could constantly chew on the mouthpiece trying to rearrange the bit in it mouth to try to find some where more comfortable for it to sit. It could tip its face to try to get the mouthpiece to sit better or to avoid pressure from joints that are in the wrong place.
Remember - it does not matter what the Horses conformation is, every single Horse and Pony’s tongue fits the mouth perfectly there is no room for a Bit in there and unlike lots of other pieces of equipment such as contoured girths and anatomical Bridles most bits do not fit the inner conformation of the Horses mouth well at all
Friesians are known for their unique head and neck conformation. Are there any particular challenges or considerations when fitting a bit for Friesian horses?
I have over the years fitted a lot of Friesian Horses and a lot of other high framed breeds. In order to encourage a high framed Horse to reach forward and be more comfortable and take up a more even contact you have to give them a reason to do this. Mouthpieces with a forward curve actually give the Horse somewhere to go. I think Horses use their tongues as a feeler and so if they feel forward into a mouthpiece that has a space they are encouraged to fill the space. On the other hand if they reach forward into a mouthpiece that has a severe close to the action or is a flat bar there is no comfort or space or incentive to reach forward.
In fact the opposite normally happens, in the Friesians case normally lift the frame higher and drop the jaw onto the windpipe and tighten the neck column into the shoulder blades.
What types of bits do you generally recommend for Friesians, especially for dressage or driving?
Any comfortable mouthpiece so a small Lozenge with small neat joints a forward curve or a Mullen with a forward curve or with a leverage cheek a Mors Lotte shape with a good upward sweep so when the cheek turns the curve rolls forward in front of the tongue
What are some of the most common bitrelated issues you’ve encountered in horses, and how can they be addressed?
Bits not designed well enough to fit comfortably or correctly
Bits that are asymmetrical
Bits that pinch and hurt the Horse
People that design bits without actually referring to the conformation they are fitting or they don’t or are not capable of riding in them to actually know what they feel like
People that buy bits on recommendation from social media when a lot of the information given does not fit the criteria of the Horse in question whether it be conformation or stage of training or the rider’s ability
Can you walk us through your process of fitting a horse for the correct bit? What factors do you take into consideration?
At a consultation I like the rider to bring the Horse forward in it’s saddle and a headcollar carrying the Bridle.
I check the mouth and head conformation and overall body conformation looking for conformation issues, old injuries, foot balance, anything that might be an issue for me in the job that I do,that may not allow the Horse to respond well to transitioning into a new bit.
I ask as many questions as possible to get a flavour of the Horse and Rider
Any injuries, maintenance history, training history, riders’ goals, riders worries.
I then look at the Bridle and Bit or Bits that they are currently riding in and discuss the Bridle fit and how the bit they have works.
Then I get them to Bridle their Horse exactly as they always do I don’t interfere at this stage. Then I watch them work in and decide how I can be the most helpful and discuss with the rider what would be the most useful aspect of their training or riding that I can help with. I am a Qualified Riding Instructor Saddle Fitter I fit Bridles and have been Bitting for 30 years so I hope to be the most helpful I can be when choosing a new Bit. Also if help is needed with any aspect of Riding position schooling exercises etc
I then change the Bit or Bits fitting the Horse myself and making any changes that I need to at this stage to the fit of the Bridle and explaining where the bit fits best I then talk the rider through a series of walking exercises so the Horse has a chance to realise that the bit has changed and then I get the rider to work in and access the new bits feel against the one that they have been in. And although it’s not a miracle cure there must be one or two little things that lead the rider to think that with some time and patience and repetition it will make an improvement to the way the Horse goes.
I sell my bits on the basis that we have discussed it, fitted it together, ridden in it together and then they go home able to replicate what we have achieved on the day when its fresh in everyone’s minds.
How often should horse owners reassess their bit choice, especially with young or developing horses?
If you have Bitted your Young Horse from the beginning well you should not need to change your Bit much if at all until it starts to do more work or you are adding in new skills. As long as you don’t go down the route of a rubber bit that is too thick for the Horses mouth or try to use keyed bits as you are simply causing discomfort and bad habits from the get go that you may never loose. In my opinion you should start as you mean to go on in a fairly slender bit with a supportive cheek that fits the conformation well from the beginning and you are able to use for Long reining, ground work backing and then Riding away and if you choose a Dressage legal Snaffle you should be able to start competing in it should you wish to.
Another factor I have always adopted is not to be too quick to overuse the mouth. Start with head pressures and then partial bit and head pressures and then fully into the mouth is a kinder way of training I think. It is probably unrealistic to think that a multi tasking Horse can do all that you want to do in one bit only it’s probably better eventually to have a Snaffle for flat work and Dressage and arena work and then an equally comfortable mouthpiece on a leverage cheek for faster work and jumping and the more exciting stuff.
Are there any exciting innovations or new trends in bit design that have improved horse comfort and performance in recent years?
Sorry no, not in my opinion in some cases certain firms don’t seem to have learned from easily available conformational research and have made even more uncomfortable bits! I had a discussion with a company at an annual trade fair and could not get any straight answers to my questions on conformation and comfort and signalling ability that their products in my opinion lacked and that well designed bits and tack should provide. It was interesting to hear someone else’s contrary view on my passion subject and everything I believe in. They basically said that every Horse and Pony according to a professional rider that they were working with should go in a single jointed Eggbutt Snaffle regardless of age type conformation or hands on the end of the reins.
What makes a well-designed bit stand out from others on the market?
Quality materials well made small even joints
Symmetry and Balance
A good description of how the bit works and why you might choose it for your Horse
A theory behind its use and fit and at what stage of training or for what discipline you might use it for
Are there any behaviours people mistakenly attribute to bad behaviour in a horse, when in fact it could be bit discomfort?
I will sort of skirt around this by saying all sorts of behaviours can manifest if your tack does not fit well so here are a few scenarios. All can cause your Horse to be out of frame, feeling too strong into the hand, not settling or not being able to concentrate on anything but its frame and or it mouth movement.
If your bit is too thick and your Horse simply cannot close it mouth comfortably If your Horse has a neat bottom jaw and the bit you have chosen has a long Lozenge in the centre with large joints either side of it and as you use the bit the joints will end up dragging on the edge of the tongue or onto the bottom bars or into the corners of the lips and cause discomfort and possibly bruising.
If you choose a Mouthpiece that is jointless but very flat possibly a Weymouth it shape will just squash your Horses tongue into its bottom jaw as there is no room for it to be able to carry its tongue naturally or to swallow freely.
If you have chosen a bit that has quite straight branches to the mouthpiece and as you use it the action will pinch the lower jaw between the two then the Horse will come out of frame or recede towards its chest to avoid the pinch.
I could go on and on about bits shapes don’t fit and Bridle and Browband sizes and girth shapes but you get the gist.
What advice would you give horse owners who are unsure about whether their horse’s bit is fitting correctly?
Don’t ask Social media for an opinion it’s no one’s business but yours in my opinion. At best you will get 17 contrary opinions and at worst you will be upset by people who spew hate.
If you think you might need help choose someone by recommendation and then go onto their websites and see for yourself if they ride like you or how you would like to, have the same philosophy as you and can actually help with the way you ride and compete your own Horse.
Could you share a memorable case where finding the right bit made a significant difference in the horse’s comfort and performance?
I have lots and lots of memorable cases which is why I love my job so much. But I will give you a scenario which should resonate with some of you:
A good few years ago I did a clinic and I never know who is going to turn up until they arrive in the school.
A Friesian mare not very old and she was a ride and drive with a lovely owner who rode well and the horse was beautifully maintained.
The problem was it was a very sensitive Horse with a very high profile and it wasn’t really engaged with the rider. Looking around and spooking a little as she wasn’t allowing any input from her rider. Which made her very powerful and very bouncy to ride, not being unwilling but just a little over the top
I always think when I see this that if only I can gain comfortable control of the Horses head for the rider then she will have the Horses attention If you are not connected to the mouth then you don’t really have a say over frame or direction and you are not connected to the Horses brain. So after lots of fact finding I watched her work in then I changed the bit for a comfortable curved mouthpiece and a Leverage cheek and a high leather jaw strap putting the rein on a rounding. Although re Bitting is not a miracle cure there should be some positive responses from the Horse to lead us to believe we are on the right track and give us the feeling that with some patience and repetition over a period of time we can improve the way the Horse go And the mare did just that we did some relaxing walking exercises first and she starting lowering her head to use the room in the new mouthpiece and the Leveage cheek was encouraging her to the end of the rein and as soon as she relaxed pressure was released so she realised quite quickly that if she lowered a little and reached her neck forward a little it was so much more comfortable.
You need to fix the way the Horse goes in order to improve it. You need to come out every day and the Horse is engaged and starting to be better balanced and the head is more forward and a little lower in the frame if this happens every day for a week or two weeks or three, this then becomes the norm both mentally and physically and you have trained out of the problem and if this a Dressage Horse you can then start with the same mouthpiece on a Snaffle
cheek But your training bit will still have a place in the training equation as it will always have more release and reward and better signals than a stand alone snaffle as long as you are choosing a well balanced well made comfortable one.
The Rider did exactly that and took home the bit and did her homework and then eventually got the Dressage legal equivalent snaffle and then used the original training bit for some frame affirming schooling and all her faster work and her snaffle to Dressage and Dressage prep for competition.
Prize Money with a total prize pot of over £300 to be won EVERY MONTH! Prize money will be awarded in accordance with British Dressage rules in classes with 5+ entries. For international entries, prize money will be awarded as an entry voucher
New BD Tests will be in use from the August competition Rosettes 1st to 6th place, all handmade with love. The Uk Friesian Federation are also partnering with a very supportive equestrian brand who will provide horse treats to all UK class winners
Season 2 Gifts & Awards
Participation Certificates printed for each participant. Overall Winners UK and International rosettes and sashes. Gifts wonderful treats, grooming products, merchandise, and other sponsor gifts
Each rider can send a Riders Profile for promotion on social media and in our magazine. Season/Year winners will have their profiles promoted across the equestrian industry and featured in the UK Friesian Federation magazine and social media
Just like us humans, every horse is different – in both build and personality. But, horse owners have found that using a horse solarium before and then again post-exercise will help to ensure the horse’s muscles are warmed up in order to prevent uncomfortable strain and tightness.
During winter, horses must spend more time in the stables; our selection of horse solariums can provide the horse with the light they need to remain fit, healthy and energised, as well drying off the animal to avoid the chills and muscle discomfort associated with exercising in damp or wet conditions. Most of our Equine Solariums feature heat lamps and infrared bulbs in order to increase efficiency and treat all types of horses.
We cater to all breeds, no matter the discipline they partake in, and it is our main focus to provide products which are of the highest quality and that will provide many benefits in years to come.
Would you like your beloved Friesian horse to be the next cover star of our magazine? We're currently seeking Friesians to grace the covers of our upcoming Winter (And Christmas Special edition)
We want to hear from you! Don't miss this chance to showcase your magnificent horse to our readership and the world. Get in touch with us today to nominate your Friesian for the spotlight. Apply by sending us a direct message or email: contact@ukfriesianfederation.co.uk
Explore the fascinating world of niche careers in the equestrian industry, featuring Friesian horses excelling in unexpected roles such as endurance riding, hunting, RDA and therapy work, and performing in the film industry. From trick riding to performance horses, discover the unique paths Friesians and their dedicated owners have pursued, showcasing their versatility and impact across diverse disciplines
We want to hear from you! If you have a story or if you know someone who would like to contribute, we’d love to feature your insights and adventures.
Christmas Special Edition: Readers’ Gallery
Each month, we invite our readers to share their favorite Friesian photos for our Readers’ Gallery. This month, we were overwhelmed with over 80 incredible submissions! While we could only feature around 30 in this issue, we’re excited to announce a Christmas Special Edition Magazine dedicated entirely to showcasing your photos.
Want to be part of it? Submit your pictures via social media, direct message, or email we’d love to include your moments of Friesian magic!
Happy Halloween from our Friesian friends who are all dressed up and ready to trick-or-treat!
Each photo shared by our community tells a unique story. This section is dedicated to showcasing those cherished memories that inspire and unite us. We had 80+ pictures submited for Autumn magazine, we can only display some of them here, BUT! we will now release Special Edition Readers’ Gallery magazine with all your wonderful pictures
Want to see your Friesian featured? Submit your favorite photo in our social media group or via email Be sure to include photo credits where applicable we can’t wait to celebrate your moments with you!
Aileen Byrne
Jodie Frost
Holly Dwyer
PhotographyPhotographing pets & their people
Credit faeloudon
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