Category: Magazine

Riding horses requires harmony between rider and steed, understanding cues, and being alert to the surroundings. For riders with hearing loss or those wearing hearing aids, there are specific challenges to navigate, but with preparation and adaptation, the experience can be just as rewarding. Below are tips tailored to ensure a safe and enjoyable horse-riding experience for those with hearing impairments. 1. Open Communication: If you’re taking lessons or joining group rides, always inform the instructor or other riders about your hearing impairment. This not only ensures understanding but also…...

Here are 5 Top Tips for anxious horses to help manage fright this Bonfire Night. Bonfire Night fireworks can be fun for some when organised in a way that safety is considered for all – including animals in the surrounding areas. However, as many horse owners know, the week leading up to, alongside the night itself (and thereafter) can be a very unpleasant experience for both equines and pets at home. If you’re an owner and understandably worried, discover our top tips on how to manage anxiety and safety for…...

Are you wondering about horse rider weight limitations? Are you worried that you are too big for your horse or pony? If so, then read on to find out more about appropriate weight limits for riding a horse in the UK alongside the impact on horse health and welfare. Rider to horse weight ratio typically depends on the size and strength of the horse and the type of work that the horse is expected to do. However, from a vet’s point of view how much weight is too much weight…...

If you’re a horse owner one of your main responsibilities is to keep your horses safe and healthy. Where you allow your horses to graze and spend a large majority of their time plays a key role in their overall well-being. If you own a paddock, it is important to keep up proper paddock management and maintenance in order to ensure the safety of your horses but also to guarantee they are grazing on pasture that is rich in nutrients and poses no risks to their health.  Securing paddock perimeters …...

The equestrian world is a fascinating blend of sport, culture, and community. Whether you’re an avid horse racing fan, a dressage enthusiast, or someone who enjoys the thrill of showjumping, there’s an event for you. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of year-round equestrian events, offering insights into the competitions and the lifestyle aspects accompanying them. Spring: A Season of Renewal and Competition Spring begins the equestrian calendar with events like The Cheltenham Festival and the Badminton Horse Trials. These events are not just about the races or…...

Discover some simple stable yard rules that’ll help keep all yard-goers happy in our ‘top-tip’ article below. Horses are expensive animals to keep, they of course need to be cared for yet should be enjoyed at the same time. Too many yards have problems with arguments, fall-outs, and unnecessary upset. This in turn will impact the horse’s well-being and owner’s enjoyment. Here are some simple stable yard rules to help keep all equestrians and their horses happy campers … Top tip: Print this out and stick it on the tack…...

Are you mulling over whether or not your horse is ready to ride? Alongside the physical aspect of skeletal maturity, the mental state of the horse or pony should also be considered before we set about breaking a horse in to ride, drive or for whatever discipline we decide to partake in. In this article Clinical Animal Behaviourist, Loni Loftus, takes a look at a variety of factors to consider before embarking on this very important journey for horse, and rider. Written by Loni Loftus, Clinical Animal Behaviourist Significant research…...

Wondering whether a horse calmer would be suitable? This article takes a look at the different reasons why people turn to calmers to help their horses. Why choose a horse calmer? You may be looking for an antidote to help calm a horse that suffers from stress, anxiety and nervousness, or something for excitability. The time of year, age, breed, feed, fitness, health and routine can all affect your horse’s behaviour. A hot horse (one that may exhibit many of the points raised here) can be hard to handle, and…...

Ashley Boyce on riding for Brendon Stud and life as a professional rider Becoming a professional rider takes hard work, dedication, skill, and (a lot of) patience. Riding as a career goes beyond the highs of winning a big class or event, as there will be as many challenges to face too. Competition is stiff, and only the best and most dedicated will prosper. However, with all this said, it’s a realistic goal for those who strive to achieve their ambitions. In this interview, showjumper Ashley Boyce speaks to Phoebe…...

Following the success of the 2022 Thelwell prints, Hy Equestrian has announced a new design will be joining the extremely popular Thelwell range for autumn 2023, and we have a sneak peek of what to expect here. Perfect for all Thelwell fans (horse and human), the new print features in a vibrant purple adorned with a selection of the UK’s most loved pony characters. What to Expect The new print will be available in the popular StormX Original range of rugs (100g standard neck turnout and the 200g combi turnout)…...

Taking up equestrian sports in college is a captivating and enriching choice for students. It brings a unique blend of physical activity, emotional connection, and skill development to the college experience. This article delves into the compelling reasons why college students should consider embracing equestrian sports during their academic journey. It’s not merely a pastime; it’s an opportunity to foster fitness, well-being, and valuable life skills, all while building strong connections within the equestrian community. So, let’s explore why equestrian sports can be a valuable and rewarding addition to a…...

The lifestyle of a horse lover is difficult for those who aren’t in the sport to understand. It’s different from many other sports in so many ways, including being the only activity where men and women compete against each other. If you have a friend or relative who keeps asking you questions, you may want to point them to this article to help them understand a little more on what to expect. Alternatively, you may wish to mull over the points below if you are considering purchasing your first horse.…...

Here, we examine the different types of horse clips you may consider when clipping. Although there are many variations and adaptations, this list is a good go-to guide for you to keep on hand. Is your horse ready for his first clip of the winter? Is he starting to look a bit woolly? Has he started to sweat more than usual during his regular exercise sessions? If you’re saying yes to any of these questions, then it may be time to clip your horse. If you own a set of…...

In this article, we review Equine Products UK Cool It, a supplement used to help reduce anxiety in horses. The supplement is suitable for a variety of purposes including; horses that are easily stressed when travelling and/or competing. The calmer is also an excellent supplement for daily use on naturally nervous or skittish horses. Other uses can include; Our thoughts on Equine Products UK Cool It Young horse owners know that when there’s anything new, or a period of disruption from the normal routine, you can more readily expect problems.…...

Tips and advice on transforming an ex-racehorse to a riding horse with Victoria Bax Transforming your former racehorse into the perfect riding horse can come with some challenges. From nutritional aspects to the nitty gritty of re-educating your 500kg fine-tuned sporting machine, the experience can throw a whole load of unexpected problems and challenges your way. In this article, event rider Victoria Bax gives a helping hand into what to expect when turning your ex-racehorse into a horse ready for the riding arena and a less intense life. Courtesy of…...

In this article, we speak to Tricia Bracegirdle to find out more about pressure points in saddle fitting. Tricia, Senior Saddle Technician for bespoke saddlery brand Childéric Saddles, looks at what pressure points mean, how they are caused and how the rider can attribute to the problem. We can now show where the pressure points of a saddle are with pliance testing, but this technology isn’t available to every rider/horse combination, nor can it take away the major effect that the rider’s balance and horse’s symmetry can have on the pressure…...

A new Thelwell pony t-shirt painting craft kit has been launched by popular craft company Fab Dab Do, who create easy-to-use t-shirt painting kits, after an exciting partnership with much-loved brand Thelwell was formed. Fab Dab Do is celebrating the wit and artistry of Norman Thelwell in the cartoonist’s centenary year, using stencils and paint to breathe life into his characters onto t-shirts and introduce his timeless humour to a new generation. This collaboration between Fab Dab Do and Thelwell guarantees young, old and new crafters hours of creative delight,…...