Category: Magazine

The National Theatre’s most successful production to date WAR HORSE is going on tour. Here, Everything Horse journalist, Katie Gilmour sits down with the Director of Puppetry Matthew Forbes to find out just how they make such magic on the stage. Many will have seen the National Theatre’s incredible version of Michael Morpurgo’s best selling novel, War Horse. Morpurgo’s book sold over 35 millions copies worldwide in 37 languages, telling the incredibly important story of horses in the First World War. Between 2005 and 2007, the National Theatre put together…...

Buckle up as we take a a look at common equestrian terms, while discovering what non-horsey folk think each one means. Snaffle A simple type of bit, that fits in the horse’s mouth typically with a joint in the middle and used with a single pair of reins. The bit is attached on to the bridle and is used when riding. Non-horsey folk suggestions: Forelock A lock of hair growing from the poll, hanging down over the forehead forming at the top of the man’s, running down between the horse’s…...

Here, we welcome popular equestrian brand Bucas to explain the phenomenon of stripy horse rugs, including why and how the zebra print came about. Zebras know best The evolution of the zebra’s striped coat has been a hot topic amongst scientists for over 150 years with many in-depth studies carried out by scientists on why Zebras have stripes and the connection with flies.   The Science One of the earlier studies to Bucas’ knowledge is that of scientists painting wooden pallets containing vegetable oil, in different patterns. There was one…...

Learn How to Boost Competition Routine to Manage Rider Anxiety Managing competition anxiety will ultimately improve yours and your horse’s performance. Here’s your chance to learn more about how goals, visualisation, affirmations and focus are all key to helping kick showtime nerves to the curb. Picture the scene, you have been practising for months, the competition has arrived, you and your horse are feeling good and performing well, the moment arrives and it’s your turn to compete in to the main ring, but something changes as you are gripped with…...

If you’re looking for advice on how to buy a horse, take a look at our article below that considers the different breeds, money and stabling. Some people are content with going to a riding school to ride when they feel the need for some horse-company but equestrians say that there’s nothing as satisfying as owning your own horse. If you’re thinking of buying a horse, keep these guidelines in mind. Breeds There are literally dozens of horse breeds. The breed of horse that you choose depends on your goals…...

According to a report in Nature, researchers believe that horses were domesticated twice, but the first attempt didn’t stick. It’s believed that according to genetic data, Botai hunters in Central Asia may have been the first to domesticate horses around 5,000 years ago for milk and meat, but the farming did not continue. Researchers said that the use of horses varied. North of the Caucasian mountains, horses were first used for transportation 4,200 years ago. This revolutionised travel, and within a few centuries, wild horses in the area were replaced…...

Get ready for the excitement of Olympic showjumping at the 2024 Paris Games. Explore the competition format, top riders, and thrilling team and individual events. The 2024 Olympic Games in Paris will showcase the pinnacle of showjumping talent from around the globe. The event, scheduled from July 27 to August 11, will feature top riders and horses competing for individual and team honours. With the British equestrian team aiming for top spots, let’s trot straight into the details of the competition, the athletes, and what to expect. Competition Structure The…...

Feeding Young Horses – Hints for Optimal Health and Growth Whether you’re rearing a foal to sell on or to produce at home, the aim of feeding young horses should be to achieve a sound, healthy and successful athlete for whatever level and type of equestrian use. Many factors influence the growth and development of foals. However, we are increasingly realising that how we feed and manage our pregnant and lactating mares, as well as their young stock, can have a profound effect on health and welfare. Some of the…...

This month we welcome founder of the Academy of Veterinary Physiotherapy to Everything Horse for a regular column about the journey of rehabilitating her new horse, Ori, who came along following the sad passing of her dog. Wendy’s column will not only be a journey for readers to enjoy, but it’ll offer invaluable advice on the rehabilitation process of horses. And so the story begins… Part 1: An introduction to Wendy and Ori I hadn’t planned on adopting a horse, let alone rehabilitating one, but when my precious pup Hank…...

**Sponsored Post** It has been a difficult winter and spring for horses’ hooves, with the nonstop rain creating fields that resemble mud baths. The knock-on effect of the muddy conditions has seen many horses developing a hoof abscess. With the summer months on the horizon, the warmer temperatures present a whole new set of issues for hoof health. Unlike the constant wet conditions, we have recently experienced, the challenge during the summer months is the sudden weather changes, with a typical UK summer consisting of a mixture of warmer temperatures…...

What personality type is your horse? Here we take a comical look at some of the most typical horse-type personalities most yards have to offer. The Drama Queen, or King I see a leaf and jump in the air; a height equivalent to a four-story building. I hack out with my head higher than an HGV, with my tail swinging from side to side, ready to whinny my heart out at the sight of another horse as I suffer from extreme anxiety. Grids could very well end your life, and don’t…...

Spring fever in horses is a term used to describe mood and behavioural changes in equines during … well, spring. Our equine companions are sensitive creatures, reacting to even the slightest adjustment to their diet, environment, or weather conditions. With the arrival of spring (finally), you might be noticing some changes in your horse’s energy levels. This is called spring fever and is entirely normal but, as it can present some challenges, you’ll be glad to know that there are some steps you can take to support your horse. The…...

Even with the best-laid plans, accidents, injuries and illnesses are all part and parcel of owning horses. It is possible to take precautions such as risk assessments, education and training. Still, we can’t prevent the unexpected from happening, so having suitable horse insurance is important to protect ourselves, our horses and others who may be affected by our actions. Taking out a horse insurance policy gives us peace of mind should our horses become ill or sustain an injury. While there is a huge range of advice available on avoiding…...

Equestrian tourism has galloped into the mainstream travel scene with an undeniable allure. Offering a unique blend of adventure, connection with nature, and cultural immersion, horse riding holidays have become increasingly popular among travellers seeking authentic experiences off the beaten path. From serene trail rides through breathtaking landscapes to exhilarating adventures, equestrian tourism presents a captivating way to explore the world. Unveiling the Appeal At the heart of equestrian tourism lies the profound bond between rider and horse, transcending language barriers and cultural differences. The opportunity to embark on horse…...

It is not uncommon for infertility in mares because their uterus remains too inflamed after breeding. This condition is referred to as persistent breeding-induced endometritis (PBIE). Ontario Veterinary College researcher, Dr. Tracey Chenier is working to find out what causes this inflammation and how to treat it. “Horse owners and breeders often face challenges with infertility in their mares,” says Chenier. “Endometritis, an inflammation of the lining of the uterus, can affect mares leaving them unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy. We have been looking for ways to prevent or treat…...

New from Toggi for Summer 2024 are the Arden Ladies Breeches, available in dark green or grey. Designed for riders to stay comfortable and secure in the saddle no matter what the summer throws at us. After months of wet weather, horse owners across the British Isles are crossing their fingers for warm, sunny weather to enjoy summer competitions, long hacks and lazy yard days. But as we all know, British summer doesn’t always play by the rules. Luckily, Toggi has ridden to the rescue with a new riding legwear…...

The Isle of Wight, a gem nestled in the English Channel off the southern coast of England, boasts stunning landscapes, diverse terrain, and a rich cultural heritage. One of the most enchanting ways to experience the island’s beauty is through pony trekking. With its gentle hills, lush meadows, and picturesque coastal paths, the Isle of Wight offers an idyllic setting for horseback adventures – it’s one of many things to do on the island. Here are some of the best places to go pony trekking on this charming island: 1. St.…...