A severe heatwave is forecast by the meteorological office. So now is the time to plan how you are going to keep your horse or pony cool in the exceptionally high temperatures this summer. Be aware of the early signs of heat stroke or heat exhaustion in your horse or pony as, just like us,...Continue Reading

Now that COVID-19 restrictions are easing, large organised fireworks displays and bonfire parties are likely to return this November. The Diwali Festival of Lights takes place on 4 November this year and will be accompanied by colourful lanterns and fireworks. Bonfires and fireworks remain a perennial and serious cause for concern for those of us...Continue Reading

Taking measures to prevent, or minimise the spread of, disease is an animal health and welfare priority. Invariably the costs and disruption of planned preventative measures are significantly less than those associated with treating the disease once it takes hold. The clinical signs of strangles and how it spreads are detailed in All About Strangles...Continue Reading

Strangles is caused by a bacteria called Streptococcus equi. subspecies equi. It is a common, highly contagious infection of a horse’s upper respiratory tract. Strangles can cause large abscesses to form, make swallowing difficult, restricting breathing and is both painful and distressing for the infected horse or pony. Whilst the disease often causes considerable suffering...Continue Reading

The abundant bright yellow flowers of the common ragwort (Senecio jacobaea) seem to be everywhere at the moment – certainly in Hertfordshire ragwort seems to be flourishing to a markedly greater extent than in recent years. Ragwort is toxic to horses and ponies and must be removed from pasture as a matter of priority. Ideally...Continue Reading

Bio-security – a term often associated with sci-fi movies, mysterious government laboratories, scientists in yellow protective suits and more recently, COVID-19. In reality these associations are anything but fictitious, with bio-security being something all of us should be thinking about daily.Increasing national herd density and movement raises likelihood of disease transmissionOver time, an increase in...Continue Reading

With COVID-19 lockdown restrictions starting to ease, competitions are opening up. Whether you’re competing at a local dressage show, at Pony Club camp, completing a 60cm clear round showjumping, or braving a cross-country course, you and your horse or pony will want to be ready to achieve to your full potential. Here are some quick...Continue Reading

As we all prepare in the UK for the long-anticipated relaxation of COVID-19 lockdown regulations and a welcome but hesitant return to the equestrian sporting calendar, the current EHV-1 outbreak in Valencia is a dreadful, but timely reminder – if ever one were needed – as to how infectious and deadly the disease can be.East...Continue Reading

The COVID-19 pandemic and social-distancing regulations mean most organised fireworks displays are likely to be cancelled this year. Back-garden bonfires and fireworks nevertheless remain a perennial cause for concern for those of us with animals. In circumstances such as these, horses and ponies can sometimes benefit from some help to keep calm.Bonfires and fireworks frighten...Continue Reading

The unusually mild and very wet winter has finally receded and with the arrival of warmth and sunshine, grass in paddocks is now growing rapidly. For horses and ponies the new growth is irresistible and they love the lush grazing. But, the plentiful availability of sugary grass is not suitable for all horses and ponies....Continue Reading