The Horse Report December 2022 digital edition

I N I N T H I S T H I S I S S U E : I S S U E :

* E n d u r a n c e W o r l d C h a m p i o n s h i p * E n d u r a n c e W o r l d C h a m p i o n s h i p

C h r i s t m a s G i f t I d e a s F e a t u r e * E q u i n e H e a l t h & N u t r i t i o n F e a t u r e

C h r i s t m a s G i f t I d e a s F e a t u r e

E q u i n e H e a l t h & N u t r i t i o n F e a t u r e - H o w y o u f e e d m a k e s a d i f f e r e n c e - H o w y o u f e e d m a k e s a d i f f e r e n c e - J o i n t & B o n e S u p p l e m e n t s - J o i n t & B o n e S u p p l e m e n t s - M u d F e v e r - M u d F e v e r - S t i f l e L o c k - S t i f l e L o c k

- L o w S t a r c h d i e t s - L o w S t a r c h d i e t s

* W o r k i n g W i t h C h i l d r e n C h e c k s

* W o r k i n g W i t h C h i l d r e n C h e c k s

** E q u e s t r i a n C e n t r e o f E x c e l l e n c e f o r T o o w o o m b a E q u e s t r i a n C e n t r e o f E x c e l l e n c e f o r T o o w o o m b a

B o y d e E x e l l d o m i n a t e s i n S w e d e n

B o y d e E x e l l d o m i n a t e s i n S w e d e n

T r a i n i n g T i p s w i t h T a n j a K r a u s

T r a i n i n g T i p s w i t h T a n j a K r a u s

The Horse Report

Boudheib (UAE) to host FEI Endurance World Champs

The world renowned Boudheib International Endurance Village (BIEV) in the United Arab Emirates is set to host the FEI Endurance World Championship 2022, following a decision made by the FEI Board during its meeting in Cape Town (RSA) recently.

The BIEV venue, which was strongly recommended by the FEI Endurance Committee, is situated approximately one hour from Abu Dhabi’s city centre will be the venue for the rescheduled World Championship.

In September 2022, the FEI terminated the Host Agreement with Isola della Scala in Verona, Italy that was originally scheduled to host the biennial event from 19 to 23 October 2022.

This decision also included the provision to reopen the bid process in order to find a new host for the Championship.

With October to March being the winter season in Abu Dhabi and the period for outdoor and equestrian events, the World Endurance Championships will now take place from 20 to 26 February 2023, with the ride scheduled for Saturday, 25 February.

“We are very pleased with the decision to award the FEI Endurance World Championship 2022 to Boudheib,” FEI President Ingmar De Vos said.

“The FEI Board was impressed with the world-class permanent infrastructure and facilities offered by the BIEV and the proven ability of the Organisers to guarantee all the logistical organisation for our human and equine athletes in a short period of time.

“The safety and security of human and

equine athletes is the FEI’s top priority, and the organiser’s track record of commitment to horse welfare was a key factor in the decision.

“We are confident that the Organisers will give our athletes a Championship to remember and that the venue will deliver on all its promises.”

Since 2004, around 147 FEI and 153 National Endurance events have been held at the BIEV which will host the FEI Endurance World Championship for the first time ever.

The venue has earned global recognition for its modern and well-equipped clinic that has digital x-ray, ultrasonography and other diagnostic services, highly qualified veterinary staff and laboratory technicians.

Located close to the central vet gates and the holding area, the clinic includes examination areas, stables for in-patient treatment as well as observation and administrative areas.

The track, which passes through a forestry reserve, is designed to naturally regulate pace and to challenge the skill of the riders.

The BIEV is known for producing technical rides that prioritise horse welfare.

Under the guidance and support of the late former deputy UAE Prime Minister H.H. Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Boudheib Protocol Initiative was implemented in BIEV and other venues around the world to ensure that the welfare of the horses and horsemanship prevail.

Another initiative guided by the vision of Sheikh Sultan is the Boudheib Academy, which trains young endurance athletes by teaching proper riding techniques and the basics of horsemanship.

For the FEI Endurance World Championship 2022, the organiser will offer prize money to all finishers including a prize category for Best Condition.

The total prize money for teams, individuals, horses in best condition and all finishers is approximately US $545,000.

Also agreed at the FEI Board meeting was the allocation of the Mexican qualifier of the Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup™ 2022 to a new venue, San Miguel De Allende from 26 to 30 April 2023.

The Horse Report

Yes, it’s that time of the year again and The Horse Report has some gift suggestions for those wondering what to get your equestrian family and friends.

DIVINE BROWBANDS

Devine Equine Services offers custom-made quality show horse browbands and accessories.

From work browbands, name browbands, pony club browbands, miniature pony browbands, hunter browbands to Royal Show browbands. They offer an easy to order, fast custom service with the bonus of Afterpay, Paypal or Eftpos. For further information contact 0412 747 401 E-mail: info@devineequine.com.au or visit www.devineequine.com.au

SUPA-LICIOUS EQUINE TREATS

Looking for stocking fillers or a Christmas treat for your ponies, then look no further. Grab a bucket or bag of Supa-Licious treats available in several sizes and flavours visit www.supaliciousproducts.com.au

BROWNINGS

RURAL

Spoil your horse and yourself and order a custom made paddock shelter, day yard, stable or stable complex for you horses this Christmas. Brownings Rural are a leading manufacturer of portable horse stables, day yards Stables and Stable complex’s. They pride themselves on innovation not imitation.

For your free quote call Anthony - 0403 735 948or email anthonybrowning308@gmail.com

HERITAGE DOWNS

This is the natural choice. Spoil yourself or a loved one this Christmas with a gift pack of premium quality natural products your animals will love!

Choose from Healthy Coat Pack, Outdoor Protection Pack & Wound Care Essentials Pack. Includes handy Heritage Downs washbay/ travel bag. Shop now visit www.heritagedowns.com.au

EDWARDS

SADDLEWORLD

The one-stop shop for all your equestrian needs for both horse and rider. New season riding apparel now instore just in time for Christmas along with some great Christmas gift ideas that include toys, books, backpacks, drink bottles, colour co-ordinated outfits including jodhpurs, shirts, jackets, saddlecloths, helmets boots and browbands in many colours and designs both english and western styles.

Ph 07 4633 1111 or visit https://www.facebook.com/edwar dssaddleworld

EQUINITY HORSE & RIDER EMPORIUM

This wonderful little boutique store in Murwillumbah has so much to offer.

Looking for a gift they will have something for all ages. Their range of clothing is amazing with Western wear for all ages and includes a large range of boots, hats, caps, socks, scarfs and blingy belts. Looking for stocking fillers they have phone cases, wallets, coloured brushes, lead ropes and hoof picks shirts, hats brightly colour socks pillows and backpacks. For further info Ph 02 6672 8486

Christmas Gifts Ideas feature Gift suggestions just in time for Christmas

The Horse Report

THE HORSE DEN

The Horse Den is a new saddlery opened in Toowoomba.

They stock a huge range of high quality equine and dog products as well as a large range of show gear and riding apparel.

Looking for that Christmas present for the hard-to-buy friend, child or relative?

The Horse Den has a unique range of awesome gifts that include artwork, bridle, boots, helmet and gear bags, books & Toys Swarovski embedded brushes, Christmas tree ornaments and designer giftwear that includes plates, wine glasses candles, silver platters and cheeseboards.

Can’t find want you want, they can offer you a Horse Den gift voucher.

For for information Ph 07 4599 3116 Email: admin@thehorseden.com.au www.facebook.com/TheHorseDen

Saddlery

PHOTOS & FRAMES

Everyone loves great photos and what a great gift they make.

The Horse Report magazine has published many great photos from events held over the years.

If you have seen one you like in one of our magazines, we will still have them on file.

If taken by ourselves we can have the photo printed for you or you can purchase an email copy and have it printed yourself.

If taken by a professional photographer that contributes to our magazine ,we can put you in touch with that photographer so you can arrange to make the purchase.

Christmas Gifts Ideas feature Gift suggestions just in time for Christmas

The Horse Report

WIN A YEARS SUPPLY OF TUFFROCK

ENTER NOW

To celebrate 20 years in the business, Tuffrock is giving The Horse Report readers a chance to win a years supply of Tuffrock SUPER-TUFF.

SUPER-TUFFis a powerful blend of colloidal Volcanic Minerals chelated with Botanic Vitamins, Omegas, Antioxidants and Phytonutrients to deliver the next generation premium health supplement. It contains SUPERFOODS such as Volcanic minerals bio-available for Collagen Types I, II and III with Kakadu Plum Botanic Vitamins Antioxidants, Natural Phytonutrients and Omegas.

SUPER-TUFF is a multi-animal multi-modal supplement that supports normal healthy Gut mechanics (GI function and digestive enzymes, stable pH for stamina, modulates lactic and acetic acid, binds mycotoxins, stomach linings, gut flora). It supports your 4-legged friends show condition with shiny coats, hooves and paws, skin and eyes, natural freedom of movement & flexibility of muscles ligaments, tendons, bones, joints, cartilage, helps maintain normal physiology for feed conversion and is safe to use during pregnancy or lactation.

IRONHORSE

3 HORSE ANGLE LOAD FLOAT

Christmas Gifts Ideas feature Gift suggestions just in time for Christmas

The Horse Report

LANG PARK COTTAGES

For the person that has everything, how about a quiet getaway at Lang Park Cottage, a rural tourist facility with one bedroom cottages on a private 25 acre horse property 10 mins from Byron Bay.

Whether you want the relaxing lifestyle of just sitting back on this beautiful 25 acre property to unwind and enjoy the peace and tranquility or would like to visit waterfalls and rainforest at Minyon Falls or walks on the beach and a visit to the lighthouse in Byron Bay, the choice is yours.

The beautiful self-contained cottages all have modern furnishings and come complete with fireplace, kitchen, modern bathroom and spa and a deck to enjoy the beautiful mornings and afternoon sunsets.

The property also has a pool/BBQ area, stable block and sand dressage arena.

For further information contact Aaron on 0429 997 077, 02 6684 7241 email langparkcottages@gmail.com or visit www.langparkcottages.com.au

PONY CLUB CAMP

JABIRU BUSH CAMP

CAMP

JABIRU BUSH CAMP

Need to occupy the kids in the school holidays? Do you have your own horse and are a member of pony club? The Murwillumbah Pony Club will be holding their annual three day camp on Thursday, Friday nd Saturday January 19, 20, and 21.

Instruction will be provided in jumping, sporting, show riding, dressage, mounted games, horsemanship and scary obstacles. There will also be theory lessons, fun with games, trick riding and vaulting and lots more.

To attend the camp you need to be a financial member of a pony club for 2022, have your own horse and pre-nominate via the nomination form available on request. This year, adult riders will be welcome to join in at the camp so long as they are financial riding members of a pony club. Nominations are essential to attend both the gymkhana and camp.

For further information or to receive a nomination form contact Paula on 0413 733 294 or email cobakibob@bigpond.com

Looking for a quiet relaxing getaway?

Jabiru Bush Camp is a 530 acre working horse and cattle property located 20 km north of Noosa Heads and only minutes to the shores of Lake Cootharaba and the township of Boreen Point, the Noosa Trail Network and opposite the Kabi Golf Course.

Jabiru offers a host of different activities including farm stays, bush getaways, Australiana campfire entertainment, movie nights, dinners, agistment and horse spelling, trail riding, mustering, seminars, stress and fear management courses and autogenics training relaxation therapy. Unwind and relax in true Australian style at Jabiru Bush Camp.

For information and bookings 07 5485 3461

Christmas Gifts Ideas feature Holiday ideas just in time for Christmas

Have you ever thought about whether the order you feed various things to your horse will make a difference to his health?

Chances are you haven’t.

I know before I was a nutritionist, the thought would not have occurred to me!

But new research is showing that feeding a small amount of hay before you feed your concentrates/grain reduces the post-feeding inflammatory effect of non-structural carbohydrates (starch and sugars).

In other words: Feed hay first (about 1 kg, 2.2 lb) and then feed your grains/concentrates.

Equine Health Feature Changing how you feed makes a difference

Researchers from Ohio State University and Virginia Tech have recently published research showing that feeding non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) in amounts of 1.14 g/kg of your horses bodyweight (which roughly equates to 1 kg (2.2 lb) of a 50% NSC feed, 2 kg (4.4 lb) of a 25% NSC feed) causes post-feeding inflammation.

Suggesting that sub-clinical ‘digestive stress’ occurs at much lower levels of intake than that required to cause noticeable physiological changes.

The ‘post-prandial inflammation’measured was an increase in plasma concentration of interleukin-1b. Interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß) is a potent pro-inflammatory cytokine. When present in excess, IL-1ß will contribute to unhealthy levels of inflammation.

These same researchers have now shown that when you feed 0.91 kg of grass hay (approximately half of a flake/biscuit) before feeding

any higher NSC concentrate feeds, the recorded levels of post feeding IL-1ß were lower than if horses were fed their concentrate first and then hay.

Feedding hay first also reduces post feeding blood glucose levels.

What I find really interesting is that in humans, exposing human intestinal tissue to IL-1ß reduces ‘tight junction’integrity and may be contributing to leaky gut syndrome.

This is all getting pretty technical, suffice to say that inflammation in the gut won’t end well (for us, or our horses).

What should you do?

Well, either make sure your horse is able to graze or eat hay right up to when you feed your concentrates or if your horse is meal fed,

feed 1 kg (2.2 lb) of hay before you feed your concentrates.

Combining this practice with also feed alfalfa (lucerne) before you ride is going to improve your horse’s gut health immensely. And it’s so simple - hay before you ride, hay before you feed.

These small changes can make such a huge difference to your horse’s health and wellbeing. And that is truly what gets me, and everyone on the nutrition team here at FeedXL,to work every day with a smile on our faces.

As always, if you have any questions about anything to do with feeding and nutrition, head on over to our FeedXLHorse Nutrition Group on Facebook, you are so welcome, FeedXL member or not.

We have all been told ‘little and often’when it comes to feeding horses - but why?

Well, when you consider horses are ‘grazers’ and their gut has been designed to work best with small amounts being consumed constantly over long periods of the day and night (they eat for up to 17 hours a day, it makes sense that they should be fed small meals frequently. But let me give you a visual (in words) on why it is best to feed little and often

In the horse’s small intestine there are things called enzymes, which are like tiny pairs of scissors.

Equine Health Feature Meal size should be little and often

An enzyme’s job is to cut big things like protein, starch and fats up into very small things like amino acids (the building blocks of protein), glucose the building block of starch) and fatty acids (a building block of fats). Unless the enzymes chop protein, starch and fat up they will not get absorbed as they are far too big to cross the intestinal wall intact. So for absorption to occur, these little enzymes must chop the big stuff into little stuff.

Now, imagine I was to give you a pair of scissors and then held up a long piece of ribbon. If I walked past you very, very slowly holding

this ribbon and said ‘chop the ribbon into small pieces’, you would have plenty of time to chop the ribbon multiple times into small pieces.

This is what happens in the gut.

If a piece of protein for example goes moving through the small intestine very very slowly, the little enzymes have plenty of time to chop it up into amino acids so it can be absorbed.

Now imagine if I held up another piece of ribbon, exactly the same as the first, but this time I run past you and tell you to chop it up… you might get one shot at it before it is gone.

And this is exactly what happens in the gut.

If feed is moving too quickly through the gut the poor little enzymes simply don’t get enough time to chop anything up -meaning it simply won’t be absorbed.

So back to meal size and the little and often

concept - when you feed small meals, the feed will move nice and slowly through the gut and the enzymes will be able to do their job and fully digest it so your horse gains full benefit.

Feed large meals and all of a sudden you increase the speed with which it will travel through the gut and reduce the amount of time the enzymes have to do their cutting … meaning your horse misses out on a lot of the value from that feed.

It will be digested to some extent in the hindgut but a lot of value is lost.

So while not the only reason you should feed little and often, it is a really important one to keep in mind.

If you have a horse struggling to gain weight eating huge feeds, you might find you get better results by feeding less.

Equine Health Feature

The Horse Report Mud fever and greasy heel in summer?

Mud fever, also known as greasy heel, consists of crusty little scabs typically seen on the lower leg, especially on horses with white socks/lighter colours. Mud fever initially starts with a breakdown in the skin barrier which can then let infection in.

Often, the cause of initial skin damage is continual wetting of the limb from rain, standing in mud or even not sufficiently drying legs after a post-ride hose off.

How can we manage summer mud fever?

The 'sunburn' associated with summer mud fever is usually photosensitivity caused by ingestion of pasture mycotoxins. Secondary fungal and bacterial infections then opportunistically invade the damaged skin barrier.

Vitamins, minerals and fatty acids play very important roles in skin health and immune function which impacts on the horse's ability to cope with the inflammation, infection and immune challenge posed by the mycotoxins, skin damage and irritation.

Successful management of summer mud fever with mycotoxin-caused photosensitivity requires a multi-pronged approach consisting of:

1. Adiet correctly balanced for minerals to ensure the body has all the nutrition it needs to function properly, repair itself and fight off immune challenges (one of the very important reasons Farmalogic offers a free diet analysis service!)

2. Abroad-spectrum toxin binder - choose one proven not to bind supplementary minerals. Farmalogic Grazaid is a broadaction toxin binder combination which binds, traps and enzymically deactivates feed mycotoxins.

3. Feed antioxidants including natural vitamin E, organic selenium and SOD enzyme to donate an electron to and thus

deactivate the free radical molecules that occur at sites of inflammation and injury. Farmalogic Melox antioxidants are a good example of this kind of supplement.

4. Use topical treatments for managing secondary infections, both fungal and bacterial. This can include washes or zinc creams but avoid 'greasy' creams which can increase the moisture level of the damaged skin, encouraging the growth of pathogenic microbes.

Zinc-based antiseptic creams help both with sun protection and have anti-bacterial properties, often in the form of a 'drying' cream to help manage secondary infections.

5. Veterinary intervention if required to bring inflammation under control to help

the horse self-perpetuating the problem with rubbing or scratching. Summer mudfever symptoms are classic mycotoxin symptoms and should clear up relatively quickly with the right levels of toxin binders and mineral supplements.

Equine Health

Bone Gold Results VETERINARY RADIOGRAPHIC REPORT

HORSE: X XXXX XXXXXXX

MICROCHIP: …483

DATES OF EXAMINATION:

14TH APRIL

17TH MAY 2021

14TH JUNE

PLACE: XXXX CANUNGRA

Bilateral hind cannon radiographs of X XXXX XXXXXX were taken on 14th April 2021 and again on 17th May and 14th June 2021

Initial radiographs showed a 32mm longitudinal non displaced left mid cannon saucer fracture extending 6mm into the dorsal cortex and a 44mm longitudinal displaced fracture right mid cannon 5.5mm in depth mid dorsal cortex associated proximally with a 27mm x 6.5mm econdary fracture as below.

Initially, surgical removal was recommended of the RH fracture fragment.

Asecond series was taken on 17th May and third series on 14th June as above. Both fractures have attached and integrated with the parent bone with minor surface enthesophyte formation and periosteal activity evident.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Surgery is no longer recommended; however, the colt should be monitored carefully for any swelling on either cannon.

Prognosis for full return to racing is good.

COMMENTS:

Fractures of this nature usually require surgical removal. Resolution of cortical fractures of this size without surgical intervention is not expected.

Bone Gold supplementation was initiated on 14th April 2021 at 3 x scoops/day and should be continued.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further queries

EQUINE & CANINE PATENT FORMULAS

Equine

We are proud to announce the release ofour two new patent formulations, BONE GOLDTM and COAT GOLDTM in both the Equine and Canine presentations.

Our Formulas have been granted Innovative Patents as they present as totally unique in the market and are clearly differentiated from all other supplements.

Our new products have been produced with the same attention to detail with the highest quality pharmaceutical grade ingredients manufactured in an Australian GMP approved site.

Unlike most other supplements made in feed barns or pet food factories, this guarantees the quality and quantity of each ingredient in all our products.

VET GOLDTM products are made in the same laboratories as many Veterinary Pharmaceuticals with the highest quality control standards in the Australian Veterinary industry.

Our products are developed with specialist bio-engineers focused on ensuring maximising product effectiveness balancing ingredient ratios and particle sizes to optimise physiological uptake, digestibility and stability.

Extensive research and development in conjunction with clinical testing and observation by Veterinary Surgeons on clinical equine and canine cases is conducted on all our products.

Dr Watts has lectured at Equine Veterinary Association meetings, at the University ofQueensland and runs regular remedial Equine podiatry workshops in conjunction with Veterinary colleagues and Farriers in addition to running a busy clinical Equine Practice.

VET GOLDTM is a family owned Australian business that takes pride in all our product range with comprehensive personal support with any questions answered directly by Dr Andrew Watts and his stoic knowledgeable partner Mel Watts. Please feel welcome to contact us anytime, we look forward to personally providing any technical or medical support or information regarding our products.

SUPPLEMENTS OF THE HIGHEST QUALITY

Lame in the shoulder, sore in the back and lame in the stifle would easily be the most common suggestions made by owners when reporting that their horses are lame.

In most cases, none of the above are correct. Stifles, although rare, can very definitely be a source of lameness.

Owners love to blame these areas because they are relatively complicated structures that even if they are the source of pain, rarely, if ever, display any visible or obvious clinical signs.

Equine Health Feature Understanding the causes of stifle lock

The foot and pastern, would easily account over 90% of the lameness that horses sustain. The foot also, rarely if ever displays obvious signs but for some inexplicable reason, owners love to blame the shoulder, back or stifle. This is why proper clinical examination of a lame horse is essential to properly diagnose the cause of lameness and in most cases, positive confirmation of the source of lameness by localising nerve blocks is essential. The stifle in the horse is the equivalent of the human knee.

The joint in the horse is anatomically and structurally very similar to the human joint but functionally the two are very different. The human knee is a major direct weight bearing structure but the angulation of the joint in the horse serves to remove a lot of the direct load on the joint in that species and degenerative changes from continual and re-occurring concussion is not such a factor in the horse.

Horses have exactly the same structures such as the menisci or cartilages that are such a bane to footballers and other athletes and ligaments such as cruciates that are causes of human, and even dog lameness, but problems in these structures are rare.

By far the most common cause of problem in the horse is related to a function of the stifle in that animal.

The horse has the ability to "lock" the stifle in position by hooking one of the patella ligaments over a prominently projecting ridge of bone on the bottom of the femur.

This is part of the "stay" apparatus of the horse which allows the horse to sleep while standing up.

It is part of the unique structural conformation and make up of the horse that ensures it is always ready to flee from danger as a primary form of defence.

In some horses, there is a relative lack of angulation in the stifle, and structurally the medial trochlear ridge of the femur, (the prominent ridge of bone), is larger than normal and it is possible for the patella ligament to become actually locked, the horse is unable to free the ligament, and consequently, the horse cannot bend the limb.

The stifle really does become locked. I have seen horses that have been locked for days in both legs and are unable to move. 

The Horse Report

 From page 16

Fortunately this degree of affliction is rare but certainly some horses can be quite severely affected. The correct name for this condition is "upward fixation of the patella". In most cases, the locked patella can be relatively easily freed by manipulation but if the condition occurs in a particular horse, then because it is a conformational predisposition, owners can be reasonably concerned as that horse will be prone to re-occurrence. What occurs much more frequently however is a "catching" patella or partial upward fixation.

In these cases, the ligament temporarily becomes caught and then frees itself. This results in a "hitching" of the leg or more commonly, the horse stumbles on that particular leg. This is a quite common presentation in horses.

It is probably more a functional abnormality rather than a truly painful lameness. It can, however, be quite disruptive and deleterious to performance. Specific treatment is difficult. Fortunately the condition can be intermittent and sporadic "self cure" usually occurs. The onset of partial intermittent fixation is usually related to some form of stress. Loss of weight, over-training and some other primary lameness can often trigger catching of the stifle. The condition is directly related to the muscle tone of the quadriceps group of muscles which control the function of the patella.

Any factor that causes these muscles to lose their conditioning can result in dysfunction. It is very common for horses to develop locking stifles in the winter.

Particularly, it will show first thing in the morning when the horse first comes out of the stall.

The horse very commonly "warms up" and the lameness disappears. There-in lays the primary key to treatment.

Proper conditioning and exercise will almost always result in correction of the problem. There is no proper prescription for exercise. Sufficient to say that trainers should analyse what the horse has been recently doing and make some adjustment.

Very often this is over-training and a period of reduction in effort, particularly where stress is placed on the hind legs, is all that is necessary.

The correct training term is LSD, long slow distance, and trail riding and such is usually best.

The definitive treatment is surgically transecting the medial patella ligament.

This is a relatively common procedure but owners of performance horses should obtain very detailed and specific advice before agreeing to cut the patella ligaments of their horse.

I personally have performed the operation many hundreds of times and do not believe I have had any permanent problems, but the procedure is very prone to complications and post operative management is critical.

There are no effective drug treatments. Some drugs are often attributed success, but remember, I have said many horses self-cure and there are very many false reports of cures by many and varied modalities but most are simply the condition self correcting.

The stifle joint in the horse is also very prone to OCD.

THE HIND LEG

Equine Health Feature Loss of condition can result in dysfunction

This is a developmental disease correctly known as osteochondrosis dissecans where fragments of cartilage may become loose in the joint, or even more seriously in the horse, cysts may develop.

These conditions are easily diagnosed by xray and, most offer an excellent prognosis for surgical correction.

* Heart rate 38-44 beats per minute

* Rectal temperature 37-38.5ºC

* Respiratory rate 12-20 breaths per minute

* Gums should be light pink and moist, and capillary refill time less than 2 seconds

* Sounds of the intestines should be heard on both sides of the abdomen

* 6-10 manures and 3-4 urinations should be passed every 24 hours

* A500kg horse drinks 20-25 litres in 24 hours

How to find your horse’s vital signs:

Your horse should always be safely restrained while taking vital signs. Some horses may become fidgety during parts of this examination, so extra care should be taken.

Heart Rate (HR):

Place the flat side of the stethoscope head behind your horse’s left elbow, in front of where your girth would sit. Count each “lubdub” sound as one beat.

Normal resting heart rate: 38-44 beats/minute

Temperature:

Lubricate your thermometer (eg with KYJelly). Stand safely to the side of your horse’s rump. Gently but firmly hold the tail at the base, and lift it to one side. Insert the thermometer into the anus, holding it firmly flat against the wall of the rectum.

www www

When the thermometer indicates it has finished reading, remove it and record the reading. Normal temperature: 37-38.5ºC

Respiratory Rate (RR):

Watch your horse’s flank and rib cage rise and fall as he/she breathes. Count each inhalation (breathe in) and exhalation (breathe out) together as one breath. You can also listen for the respiratory rate with your stethoscope, or watch the flare of the nostrils.

Normal resting respiratory rate: 12-20 breaths/minute

Oral Mucous Membranes:

Lift your horse’s lips to show the gums – what colour are they? If they are any shade of purple, blue or red, if so call your vet.

Feel the gums with your finger tip – do they feel moist, or dry? Press your finger firmly against the gum, then release.

You will notice under the pressure of your finger, the gum is almost white but when you remove your finger the colour returns. Watch to see how long the gum colour takes to return to normal.

This is known as the capillary refill time (CRT). Normal gums: Light pink colour, and moist. Capillary refill time: Less than 2 seconds

Abdominal Sounds: Listen with the stethoscope on each side of your horse’s abdomen, above and below the flank area.

The sounds you hear will vary, and can be described as gurgling, rumbling, gaseous etc. Sounds also vary in frequency and loudness, depending on which area you listen to. You should always be able to hear sounds in all quarters if using a stethoscope, however with the naked ear they may be difficult or unable to be heard.

.thehorsereport.com - mob 0413 733 294 - Email: cobakibob@bigpond.com

.thehorsereport.com - mob 0413 733 - Email: cobakibob@bigpond.com

Do you know your horse’s normal vital signs?

Equine Health Feature

Equine Health Feature

www www

.thehorsereport.com - mob 0413 733 294 - Email: cobakibob@bi gpond.com .thehorsereport.com - mob 0413 733 294 - Email: cobakibob@bi gpond.com

Low starch and sugar diets for horses

The question is often asked should my horse be on a low starch and low sugar diet?

In the case of a low carbohydrate diet, it is important for horses to receive the correct type of carbohydrates to support their body, health and well-being.

Alow starch/low sugar diet is not for all horses and it depends entirely on the type of work the horses perform and if they have existing health conditions or naturally carry their weight very easily.

When we talk about restricting carbohydrates for humans, it generally means digestible sugars, soluble fibres and starch, however horses really rely on carbohydrates as an essential part of their diet especially soluble and insoluble fibres.

There are two categories of carbohydrates found in pasture and hay - non-structural and structural carbohydrates.

Non-structural carbohydrates or NSC found in roughage are termed as simple sugars and fructans and horses can easily digest and ferment these.

Sugars are building blocks for plant growth and all grasses produce sugar during the daylight hours and they use carbon dioxide water and energy via photosynthesis from the sun.

These sugars which are produced during the day are then turned into fibre to support the cell walls and energy and various other life processes.

Therefore, it is logical to think that the best time for horses prone to conditions such as laminitis to graze on pasture is early in the morning.

Up until more recently not a great deal of attention has been paid to the sugar content in pasture and hays, but we must be aware of the dangers of high sugar in grasses with horses who are prone to laminitis.

It is not just spring where we need to be concerned about grasses it is also winter whereby, we have had a considerable amount of rain and then have some warm days to follow. It is not as drastic as spring grass, but it can have an impact.

Horses that really cannot tolerate high sugars and are prone to laminitis should be restricted as far as grazing time is concerned. At the same time, these horses must receive a good level of roughage so feeding a low sugar and low starch hay, such as teff would be quite useful in these cases.

The risk can be reduced with horses who are prone to laminitis by turning them out early in the morning when sugar levels are generally lower.

However, to make it more confusing sugar content could possibly be high in the morning if the grass has undergone a degree of stress overnight.

This means if there is a frost overnight, the sugar level may still be high in the morning, so just be mindful of this.

Many processed and pelletised ready-made feeds contain carbohydrates which includes simple sugars and starch. Quite a few grains do contain a high level of NSC these include corn, oats, and seeds.

Starches are long chains of sugar molecules. Sugars are broken down through the digestive process and glucose is readily absorbed by the horse.

Through a process called hydrolysis most horses will be able to digests and absorbs sugars and starches in the small intestines. The pancreas is then activated by glucose in the blood stream to release insulin, these glucose molecules are then stored as glycogen in the cells.

If the starch content is too high sometimes starch can make its way into the caecum, this is the first part of the hindgut and it is rapidly fermented.

Lactic acid is a by-product of this fermentation process and it lowers the pH level in the hindgut which kills the good bacteria that live there. Endotoxins can be released and can contribute to conditions such as colic and laminitis.

Starch levels of natural feeds suited to horses (table below)

There is no actual way to describe what is considered as a low starch diet - carbohydrates will include sugars, starches and some roughage so therefore it is not advisable to describe the horses diet as a low carbohydrate diet.  continued page 21

The Horse Report

Does

From page 20

horse

Clearly if we were to name a low starch diet as a low carbohydrate diet it would also mean that we would need to lessen the amount of roughage being fed to the horse and this would be extremely unhealthy. It is very important to ensure that we discuss all aspects of what is considered a low starch and a low sugar feed regime for horses. The term low starch on a feed label generally refers to the percentage of starch contained in the bag.

Low starch generally sits between 10 and 12% or under.

There is a recommendation for horses that have EMS which suggests that the diet should not be low in non-structural carbohydrates.

to be on a diet? Equine Health

NSC means starch and all water-soluble carbohydrates such as sugar and fructans. Many of the processed and pelletised commercial feeds can be quite high in starch and it is interesting to note that many of these feeds do not list the percent of starch or nonstructural carbohydrates on the bag. Many of these feeds tend to be quite high in starch some are what we would term as a medium level which will be somewhere between 20 and 25% but a low starch diet must be generally less than 12%

When you are making a selection on the type of feed that you wish to use with your horse, look for feeds that do contain what we term as natural ingredients, this means suited to the species - what horses have evolved to consume to support a healthy gut microbiome.

As horse owners we need to ask more questions of feed merchants and feed companies to provide detailed information on what is contained in the feed.

Does my horse need a low starch low sugar diet?

It may be essential for some horses that have EMS or are prone to laminitis for example to be fed a low starch diet as this will maintain the blood glucose levels.

There will be variations in how you manage these types of horses due to age, current health, body condition and fitness.

Horses who are termed as obese will require a reduction in overall calories and this means not just starches.

Hays such as teff are a good option providing it is good quality as it is generally very low in sugar and starch.

It may be necessary to supplement with a good nutritional balancer or vitamin and mineral supplement to ensure that the horses daily nutritional requirements are met.

Horses who have insulin dysregulation or ID have an increased risk of laminitis as insulin in these horses is not effective in carrying glucose to the cells from the bloodstream, hence both remain at a higher level. These types of horses are highly sensitive to starches and benefit from a very low starch soluble carbohydrate diet.

On the other hand, PSSM horses or polysaccharide storage myopathy, which is a muscle disorder tend to have a normal glucose/insulin metabolism.

These horses are unable to use the glucose stored in their cells as energy and are more prone to tying up

Laminitis is one of the most common conditions in horses, these horses require a diet that is low in soluble carbohydrates and starch.

High levels of starch can increase hindgut acidosis killing the good microbes.

Pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction or PPID (Cushing's) generally affects horses over the age of 15.

These horses require a low starch diet, this condition develops when neurons in the hypothalamus gland worsen and fail to regulate the pituitary glands par intermedia. Some of these cases also have ID.

These horses are sometimes low in weight and therefore require calories added so the diet must be adjusted accordingly.

Ulcers are quite common in horses; particularly gastric ulcers and a low starch diet can be quite beneficial in these cases.

Supplying plenty of roughage to these types of horses increases the enzymatic action and production of saliva this has the potential to reduce acidity.

Often horses who have ulcers show signs of irritability, poor performance and sometimes colic symptoms.

It is well-documented that a high roughage diet supports the gut microbiome and the digestive system.

Alfalfa has proven very beneficial in these cases by acting as a hindgut buffer. This helps reduce acidosis.

Researchers have also found that horses who tend to be nervous may benefit from a diet that is a little lower in starch but always remember roughage is the key to a healthy horse.

Horses with the above conditions will certainly benefit from a low starch diet, but if your horse does fit into any of these categories, then it is not likely that he or she will require a diet that is low in starch.

Performance horses benefit from carbohydrates that are readily available particularly horses that had performing short bursts of high intensity training such as racehorses.

By not providing sufficient fuel, performance horses will not be able to maintain the energy required of them.

If glycogen in the muscles are low horses will not be able to conserve the glycogen.

Horses who have a good body score, are healthy and their fitness is at the required level for the work there would be no need to feed a low starch diet. These horses need plenty of fuel to support the workload.

If you have a horse that is difficult to maintain weight, increasing the amount of roughage and fat component may help.

As is the case with all changes in feed it is important to do so on a gradual basis.

I tend to suggest a minimum of 5 to 7 days. Making a change quickly can upset the gut microbiome and create issues which could lead to complications with health.

If you require further advice or an individualised nutritional program for your horse please contact me via enq@hiform.com.au

.thehorsereport.com - Ph 07 55909721 - mob 0413 733 294 - Email: cobakibob@bigpond.com .thehorsereport.com - Ph 07 55909721 - mob 0413 733 294 - Email: cobakibob@bigpond.com

The Horse Report

What makes Rose-Hip Vital Equine stand out in a cluttered market?

There are in fact many reasons. It all starts with the humble Rosehip, the berry-like fruit of the wild rose bush species Rosa Canina. A wholefood known to be one of nature’s richest sources of natural vitamin C. A superfood containing 8 naturally occurring vitamins (including C, E, B1 and B6) and 23 minerals (including iron, copper, zinc and magnesium), essential fatty acids (omegas 3, 6 and 9),

You may already know rosehips are often fed to horses for immune system support and a improved circulation and improved digestive function. So you’re probably wondering what makes Rose-Hip Vital® so special?

Rose-Hip Vital® is made from Rosehips manufactured with patented extraction and drying processes which isolate and activate a galactolipid (fatty acid) called GOPO®. GOPO® has clinically proven anti-

The patented processes also concentrate and preserve the naturally occurring vitamins and minerals, transforming Rose-Hip Vital® into a product that is both in a category all on its own, and across many; It’s a joint

antioxidant and a nutritional supplement. It delivers noticeable improvements to mobility, mood, condition, willingness to move forward, performance and recovery while reducing

improving general health and wellbeing, and boosting immunity.

Rose-Hip Vital® is a clinically proven plantand rich source of natural vitamin C. There is no product like it. Unlike other joint supplements, Rose-Hip Vital® is 100% plant-

Rose-Hip Vital® is safe for long term use and it does not swab. It can be used alongside conventional treatments and supplements as well as potentially replacing or reducing the

medication.

Horses like it so much, even the fussiest of eaters become more enthusiastic about their feed once Rose-Hip Vital is added. So while Rose-Hip Vital Equine has become a highly use, it also has become highly recommended for improving general health and wellbeing, improving performance and maintaining healthy joints.

How does Rose-Hip Vital® Equine lengthen the lifetime of a working horse?

Vital is comprehensive. There are in excess of

placebo controlled clinical trials on people, dogs and horses mainly focusing on antithe unique compound GOPO.

To many people, antioxidants and anti-aging go hand-in-hand. Antioxidants are talked about as the antidote to cell-damaging free radicals. Exercise and the associated stress and increase in oxygen consumption are linked to an increased production of free radicals. When the production of free radicals overwhelms the body’s antioxidant defences, oxidative stress can occur with subsequent

research shows horses need natural vitamin C to help block toxic free radical activity, which causes damage throughout the body including joints and cartilage.

Some white blood cells in the body contain granulocytes which enable them to ‘clean’

bacteria in it. Too many of these white blood cells wear down tissue cartilage. In large numbers they can also produce chemical enzymes and toxic freeradicals which cause even more tissue damage. Excess accumulation of white blood cells combined with the release of chemical substances cause’s joint pain

The more becomes, the more the white blood cells are attracted to it –a painful cycle.

protects cartilage. This means it helps to delay the onset of arthritic changes or slow down further cartilage degeneration if it already exists.

In short, if you want to extend the lifetime of your working horse, feed it a natural antirich source of natural vitamin C. Rose-Hip Vital® Equine is your only option, and the results speak for themselves.

BARREL RACING

www.abha.com.au

DECEMBER

3 West Pinjarra,WA

3 Peterborough Rodeo Arena, SA

4 Quirindi Rodeo Arena

4 Peterborough Rodeo Arena, SA 10 -11 Adelaide Plains Eq Club, SA

10 Tarcutta, NSW 17 - 18 Merbien South, VIC

JANUARY

1 Carrieton, SA

FEBRUARY

12 Lyndoch, SA 12 Quirindi Rodeo Arena 18 Moonbi, NSW

BREEDS

DECEMBER

1-4 Dalby Australian Stock Horse Sale 2 - 3 NSW State ASH Youth Show @ Kingsfield Stud

JANUARY

14 Armidale Riding Club Hack and Breed Show Spectacular

CAMPDRAFTING/CUTTING

/TEAM PENNING

DECEMBER

1-4 Dalby Australian Stock Horse Sale 17-18 Red Range Campdraft

27 Dundee 81st Annual Bushman's Carnival 0408 059 247

JANUARY

13-14 60th Annual Pinkett Sports & Campdraft 0467 043 065

14 Powranna Campdraft

15 Springsure Fundraiser Draft 20-22 Armidale Campdraft 21-22 Tenterfield Campdraft

DRESSAGE.

www.qld.equestrian.org.au www.nsw.equestrian.org.au www.vic.equestrian.org.au www.sa.equestrian.org.au www.wa.equestrian.org.au www.nt.equestrian.org.au www.tas.equestrian.org.au

DECEMBER

4 Central Coast Dressage 0478 070 176 4 Leeton Dressage 0419 873 321 4 New England Girls School 0488 183 103 4 Sugarloaf Cobbitty 0427 114 195 4 Sutherland Shire 0417 103 626 4 Alexander Park DC 4

DISTANCE RIDING

www.tadra.asn.au DRIVING

ENDURANCE

www.aera.asn.au / www.tadra.asn.au

JANUARY 28 -29 QERAEducational Weekend Ph 0476 166 903

FEBRUARY 11- 12 NSWERAScenic City Starter ride Ph 0401 999 473 18- 19 QERABony Mountain Pink Ride Ph: 07 4695 5157 25-26 NSWERAShoalhaven Endurance Ride Ph: 0413 341 270 26 SAERACalli Hill Canter Ph: 0401675383

INTER SCHOOL

POLO/ POLOCROSSE

PONY CLUB

www.pcansw.org.au www.ponyclubqld.com.au www.ponyclubvic.org.au www.ponyclub.asn.au DECEMBER 9-11 NSW State Show Riding Champs @ Glen Innes REINING www.reiningaustralia.com.au DECEMBER

Email: cobakibob@bigpond.com

Email: cobakibob@bigpond.com

SHOWJUMPING /EVENTING

www.qld.equestrian.org.au www.nsw.equestrian.org.au www.vic.equestrian.org.au www.sa.equestrian.org.au www.wa.equestrian.org.au www.nt.equestrian.org.au www.tas.equestrian.org.au

DECEMBER

3 Sydney Showjump Club Champs

3-4 RM's Equestrian Centre ODE @ Hodgsonvale

8-11 Summer Showjumping Classic World Cup @ SIEC 10 Tasmanian State Jumping Titles JANUARY

8 Pacific Fair Magic Millions Polo & Showjumping Ph 07 5504 1200 13-15 Equestrian Queensland Youth Performance Camp 28 Australia Day Showjumping Championships

SHOWHORSE

www.agsshowsnsw.org.au www.qcas.net.au www.vicagshows.com.au www.sacountryshows.com

DECEMBER

2-4 NSW Country Show Horse Championships @ Dubbo 9-11 NSW Pony Club State Show Riding Champs @ Glen Innes

17-18 SHCV Southern Stars Royal Gala 19-20 SHCV Summer Classic - Victoria JANUARY

7 Pambula Show 14-15 Bowral Show

14 Armidale Riding Club Hack and Breed Show Spectacular

15 Candelo Show

21 Albion Park Show 21-22 Eurobodalla Show

27-28 Bundarra Show and Rodeo 27-28 Kiama Show 27-28 Tenterfield Show 26-29 SHCV Horse of the Year

FEBRUARY

3-4 Berry Show 3-4 Rydal Show 3-5 Stanthorpe Show

4 Uralla Show

4 Nimmitabel Show

10-11 Glen Innes Show 10-11 Allora Show 17-19 Clifton Show 24-25 Killarney Show 24-26 Canberra Royal 25 Cooyar Show MARCH 4 Dirranbandi Show 4-5 Bell Show 4-5 Millmerran Show 10-11 Pittsworth Show 10-11 Proston Show 11 Tara Show 17-18 Murgon Show 18 Oakey Show 18 Tamborine Mountain Show 24-25 Goomeri Show 24-26 Warwick Show 25 Jandowae Show 28-1 Royal Agricultural Society of Queensland - RASQ (Toowoomba)

TRAINING/ CLINICS/ SEMINARS/CAMPS

DECEMBER

10-11

1

Franks Progressive

TRAIL RIDING & CTR

Australian Trail Horse Riders Association0418 438 807 www.athra.com.au

Alligator Creek 0407 117 998

Beaudesert Shire 0429 443 237

Beechmont & District 0419 737 253

Bouldercombe 0418 715 837

Breakaway 0408 712 851

Brisbane Valley 0428 750 145

Border Country Trail Riders 0409 224 605

Cairns Trail Horse Club 0408 727 616

Calen Trail & Sports Club 0412 804 974

Cooloola Trail riders Ph 07 5482 8436

CTHC-Caboolture ph 07 5498 6068

Curtis & District 0438 111 091

Dayboro Trail Riders to 0432 186 200

Email - dayboro.trailriders@gmail.com

Ipswich & District 0457 881 012

Logan River Redlands 0418 715 786

Mudgeeraba & Hinterland 0407 902 754

Nth West Qld Trail Riders 0429 309 280

Rathdowney Trail Riding 07 5544 1177

Richmond River Trail Horse Riders Club 0447 668 953 / rrthrc@gmail.com

Saturday Horse Activities 0408 361 215

SCATER www.scater.com.au

Ph: 07 5478 8676 or 0417 612 061

Somerset Trail Riding Club - 0418 438 807

Sunny Coast Trail Club - 0428 176 557

Tweed-Byron Trail Riders 0418 400 047

Toowoomba Trail Riders 0419 614 426

Toowoomba's Cumburrie 0429 663 397

Trail Riding Australia 0458 342 067

Wide Bay Trail Riders 07 4126 3456

PONY CLUB CAMP & GYMKHANA

The Murwillumbah Pony Club will be holding three day camp on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 19 20,21, January 2023.

Instruction will be provided in show jumping, sporting, showriding, dressage, mounted games, theory Horsemanship, and scary obstacles. There will also be theory lessons, fun with games, trick riding and vaulting and lots more.

Following the camp, there will be the annual Zone 15 fundraiser T-shirt gymkhana on Sunday, January 22. The program offers something for riders of all ages and interests from the lead line under eight riders up to associates rider 17 yrs and under 26 yrs.

Events include dressage, best presented, hack, rider, pleasure and bareback classes, showjumping and sporting events. The club operates out of the Murwillumbah Showgrounds and offers great facilities, stables, camping, canteen, new dressage arenas, jumping and sporting equipment, qualified instructors and friendly helpful members. New members are welcome to join the club and join in the fun but riders from any club are welcome to come along. Nominations are essential to attend both the gymkhana and camp.

For further information contact Paula on 0413 733 294 or email cobakibob@bigpond.com

EA to Implement Mandatory Working with Children Checks for Officials

As part of Equestrian Australia’s (EA’s) commitment to safeguarding children and young people in the sport of Equestrian, and in line with the EAChild Safeguarding Policy, EA will be implementing mandatory Working with Children Check’s for all EAOfficials to take effect from 1 July 2023.

Working with Children Check (WWCC) laws are currently in place in all Australian states and territories and aim to prevent people who pose a risk to children from working with children as paid employees or volunteers.

These laws require individuals involved in areas such as sport and recreation to undertake a check to determine their suitability to work (in a paid or volunteer capacity) with children.

The implementation of mandatory WWCC’s for all EAaccredited coaches took place earlier in the year and now we extend this to officials, to assist in complying with the WWCC laws, in addition to implementing a consistent and comprehensive screening process for all coaches and officials to make our sport safer.

EAis committed to protecting our sport, people and horses whilst providing professional, safe, and enjoyable programs and services to children. Therefore, mandatory WWCC’s is an appropriate requirement for coaches and officials.

"This is a positive step forward for equestrian to assist in protecting our children and young people, who are the future of our sport. Child safety is something we want to be a leader in," said Brooke Irvine, EAIntegrity Manager.

You can find more information about how to apply in the FAQ booklet. If you already hold a current WWCC or equivalent please email a copy to officials@equestrian.org.au

The mandatory WWCC’s will take effect prior to 1 July 2023 for EA Officials appointed to National Championships held in late 2022 and early 2023 with all other EAAccredited Officials requiring the check by 1 July 2023.

YEARS

We are giving readers the chance to win a YEARS SUPPLY of TuffRock SUPER-TUFF.

All you need to All you ne do is scan t code and the detai the email press se

hance . eed to he QR fill in ls on then nd! ssful

The Horse Report

Australian Cross Country

Australian Cross Country (ACC) was established in 1997 due to demand for cross country services. The principal Wayne Copping has been designing cross country courses and constructing obstacles since 1975 and involved in many events in Australia.

Wayne has also designed and built in a number of other countries including the Pan American Games in Toronto in 2015.

The FEI have utilised Wayne’s skills with Course Design workshops, mentoring and seminar presenting as one of the FEI’s Course Design Experts.

Australian Cross Country provides services such as full or partial course design, consultation on venue construction and layout, technical services for events and cross country portable jump design and construction.

Indeed ACC has developed a style and system of building portables in a complete flat pack format. These jumps are built in our shop in such a way they can then be dismantled and marked up and strapped onto bearers. This method means the jumps only take up multiples of pallet space on a transport meaning at least thirty 4* jumps can be accommodated on a drop deck semi trailer. These jumps would all be ranging in jumpable width from 1.4mts to 3.6mts.

The pictures show the conversion from a full scale jump to a flat pack which is easily re assembled on site with a driver drill only. All hardware is included, jumps can be coated with exterior stain to the purchaser’s requirement.

One of the many skills that ACC has is the ability to make artistically and quality designed obstacles to fit with and promote various sponsors that Organising Committees obtain.

Australian Cross Country can also supply any type of training fence for private centres from existing venues to green field sites to suit any levels of training or competition.

ACC was appointed by Spirafix Ground Anchors a few years ago as their Australian distributor, the Spirafix anchor was the first and only anchor that was recommended by the FEI for anchoring portable cross country fences. Avast range is available for all situations and conditions not just the equestrian anchors as shown, these are the only anchors that have been tested under all ground conditions and have all relevant data back up.

These anchors are available on order from Australian Cross Country or through Spirafix Australia. Complete information is available from www.spirafix.com

.thehorsereport.com - mob 0413 733 294 - Email: cobakibob@bigpond.com

.thehorsereport.com - mob 0413 733 294 - Email: cobakibob@bigpond.com

The Horse Report

Trainers feature

One of the lessons that Phil and I talk about in our clinics is setting the bar and quite often we are referring to raising the bar. We often meet people who have been stuck or stagnant in their training with their horses and need some motivation or inspiration to 'level up'.

There can be many reasons for people being 'stuck'

Lack of motivation.

With the recent 'unprecedented' *everything* (weather, pandemic, flooding,) many people have not been able to work with their horses, and when they finally can, they can feel like 'What's the point?'-- They feel they have fallen behind in their training but also feel that they could put the effort in, only to be stuck inside once again.

This is a genuine concern, and all we can say is -- your horse will thank you for it.

At the end of the day the horse needs mental and physical stimulation, so at the very least he needs interaction from you to live his best life.

Being Held back

Travelling around teaching we see many people with many different coaches. Unfortunately we often meet people who have told us 'My coach told me I wasn't ready'.

Whether that is ready for a competition (I was talking to a lady who was competing in a major competition, came second, who's coach had told her she wasn't ready!), or waiting for permission to try a particular manoeuvre or skill with their horse.

As coaches it is our job to guide and help you be successful, and remain safe, but we also need to encourage you to go outside of your comfort zone and stretch yourself and your horse!

Lack of imagination

Sometimes we get stuck on 'how' we can level up. Of course we may have specific things we are trying to work towards, like cantering on our horse, or heading out on the trail or to a show.

We often forget that we can 'level up' within our current skill level.

I recently tried to do some of the Cowboy Dressage Partnership on the Ground tests with Boogie. Of course I know she leads well, but to put that good leading to the test and complete a walk, jog test requiring her to be led from both sides, do turn on the haunches, complete transitions on the markers, and be accurate in 10 and 20 meter circles -- it really does put the focus on how 'well' our horses lead.

Fear.

This is a biggie. Often our fear holds us back. Whether we are afraid of physical consequences, like injury or a fall, or we are afraid of 'what people will think' it's important to work through our fear safely, and with good support. You can do it!

As we head into the end of what has been an eventful year for almost everyone we askHow are we going to set ourselves up for a strong finish to 2022, and a fantastic start to 2023!?

Take this as your sign -- Take that leap, book that clinic, enter that show, book an outing with friends,

DAVID HAYES

The Horse Report Boyd Exell dominates series in Stockholm

They may have been competing in the ‘Friends Arena’in Stockholm at the 30th Sweden International Horse Show, but all notion of friendship between the drivers was thrown aside as once again Australian Boyd Exell cannot seem to be toppled from the top spot.

With his fourth win from four in the 2022-23 FEI Driving World Cup™ series, the clashing cymbals of ‘Advance Australia Fair’ rang out, a now frequent sound under the spotlights of a prizegiving.

Despite a gravity-defying round during Saturday evening’s driveoff from Ijsbrand Chardon (Netherlands), Boyd’s closest challenger this season, it simply wasn’t enough to change what has become a natural order.

Having come a close second in both Lyon and Maastricht, Hollands’most successful driver must be wondering what it is going to take to beat Boyd. Although he knocked a ball in the first obstacle to add a costly four penalties, Ijsbrand appeared to have done enough to win, with the first sub-140 second time of the competition. But as has been seen time and time again, the harder they are pushed, the better Boyd and his super-keen horses perform, and although they too rolled a ball, they shaved nearly four seconds off Ijsbrand’s time to end on the only sub-140 score of 139.74.

“My team are just flying; they are so fast,”Boyd said. “ Anything can happen, including a mistake from the driver!

So, you have to keep your feet on the ground and enjoy the sport.”

Taking third was Germany’s Michael Brauchle with a much improved drive after both the first round and his previous appearances in Maastrich and Stuttgart.

Finishing Friday night’s initial outing in fourth, behind a third placed Ijsbrand, Michael had fine-tuned the performance and by Saturday was back in the mix, clocking a fast time to secure his place as one of the three eligible for the drive-off. The only finalist to drive clear, with a time of 147.74, he seemed to have put himself well into contention.

While Michael seemed justly delighted with the round and pleased with his horses, who had worked in harmony to give him a great drive, the old guard isn’t ready to relinquish their stronghold to young pretenders yet.

Glenn Geerts (Belgium) had a

brilliant Friday night and so nearly won after a triumphant first round.

But he relinquished his place during the drive-off when at the last minute, the pressure told, and expensive balls rolled to push him into second behind Boyd, who recovered from an uncharacteristic error during his first round.

On day two, Glenn was just off the pace and ended in fourth. His fellow Belgian, Dries Degrieck, on his second outing of the series, has yet to find his stride and finished fifth on both nights, tallying up expensive balls which put him out of drive-off contention.

Satisfying the vast home crowd was the Wild Card entry, Fredrik Persson (Sweden), and although he was placed sixth, there was a marked improvement in fluency between the rounds on Friday and Saturday.

Also keeping the audience happy was the presence of Boyd’s ‘Super Groom’Emma

Olsson, who is from Sweden and was recently in the running for the Cavalor FEI Best Groom Award.

As Boyd’s navigator during events, he is first to credit how important she is to their success, admitting that she can get quite cross with him if he makes a mistake!

What happens on the next leg in Geneva (SUI) will be enthralling as it will be the first outing for the reigning champion, Bram Chardon (NED).

Having won last year in Switzerland, he must be favourite to do it again, but it remains to be seen how sharp he is in comparison to his compatriots, who now have several legs under their belts.

Boyd isn’t listed as a competitor, so there’s every chance it will go Bram’s way.

But these two titans are due to clash in London, just before Christmas, when there may be a stronger indication as to who will take the title in February.

The Horse Report Equestrian Centre of Excellence for Toowoomba

The planning project to investigate establishment of an Equestrian Centre of Excellence at Toowoomba Showgrounds is well underway.

Current facility users have expressed strong agreement about required improvements during consultation completed so far.

The Toowoomba Showgrounds present an ideal opportunity to close an identified gap in the equestrian facility market.

Currently, within Queensland, there is a significant lack of large-scale equestrian facilities that can offer quality equestrian surfaces; a gap highlighted by the imminent 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Aproject steering committee comprising representatives from the Royal Agricultural Society of Queensland (RASQ), the local community and from a range of equestrian disciplines, has been established to oversee the investigation into a possible Toowoomba Equestrian Centre of Excellence.

The planning project encom-

passes a facility plan, land management plan and business case. The initiative is being supported by funding from Toowoomba Regional Council in acknowledgement of the considerable economic benefit sports tourism brings to the region and the role that Toowoomba Showgrounds plays in providing vital community infrastructure for the region.

RASQ President Shane Charles said, it’s important to ensure that any facility improvements provide an ability for RASQ to viably operate and continue to improve and maintain the facilities at the showgrounds.

“To achieve this, the equestrian facility needs to be of appropri-

ate quality and scale to attract events and competitors to Toowoomba,” Shane said. “Funding will also be required to support any significant infrastructure construction.”

Arecent survey completed by existing facility user groups at Toowoomba Showgrounds followed up by face-to-face consultation confirmed the need to upgrade existing equestrian facilities and supported the opportunity for the facility to host large-scale events of more than 300 competitors.

Preliminary plans offer an opportunity to utilise the existing equestrian facility footprint at the showgrounds – meaning

the project will have limited impact on neighbours or other showgrounds uses.

Members of equestrian user groups already using the facility are encouraged to discuss any ideas for the site with their club’s management committee, each of whom are being consulted during the project.

The RASQ Toowoomba Showgrounds web page also provides a registration link for anyone interested in being kept informed regarding the project: www.toowoombashow.com.au/ news-andmedia/article/news/toowoombaequestrian-centre-of-excellenceproject/

Equestrian Queensland CEO Briston Toft said because equestrian sports have such specific requirements, the consultants who are leading the Toowoomba Showgrounds planning project will consult industry experts and equestrian athletes to ensure that facility needs are considered, and it can meet the needs of both high-level and grassroots participation.

Ongoing opportunities to provide feedback on the plans will be provided in the near future.

EQUINE ELECTRIC FENCING SOLUTIONS FOR PEACE OF MIND

Keeping your horses contained and safe is no easy task. You want a brand you can trust with a wide range of products and services that are cost effective, quick to install and easy to use.

Nemtek is a globally known and well-respected company manufacturing a full range of energizers and fencing hardware for over 30 years. With our pioneering products, we have become the benchmark for the agricultural and security electric fencing industries and the products of choice for many governments, local authorities and industries.

Our extensive range of quality and innovative equine and animal electric fencing products help ensure the safety and wellbeing of your animals. These agricultural energizers are designed to suit the needs of various property sizes, from small hobby farms, larger farming properties, stud and cattle farms, to the larger stations. Our range of products are robustly designed and manufactured from top quality materials to ensure longevity and peak performance. The equine and agricultural range of fencing products will help keep your animals safe and secure, providing you with peace of mind.

Flexi-Fibre

provides root structure, similar to grass roots in turf, to existing or new sand-based riding surfaces. Fibre improves the surface stability, therefore the horse will work ‘on top’ of the surface rather than ‘through’ it. Our Flexi Fibre is a mixture of polypropylene, polyester and nylon Fibres which are the base material to all of our surfaces worldwide and similar to all other top surface suppliers. We

The Horse Report

The Horse Report

Like A Shark

Price: $ POA

16.1 hh

Reg: Thoroughbred | SHC | EA Brown Gelding YOB: 2010

Sire: Sharkbite

Dam: Leica Rose

Brown Thoroughbred gelding Off the Track.

Bruce is looking for his next new home, he is a seasoned competitive show horse.

Good to shoe, clip, float.

Reasonably priced to the right home.

Contact: Catherine Mills Ph: 0417 433 320

Finch Farm Lego

Price: $28,000.

15.1 hh

Reg: EA Bay Gelding

YOB: 2010

Sire: Finch Farm Style

Dam: Zafirah Maya

Lego is a 12year old 15.1 warmblood x Arabian

Lego is a pleasure to have around and is easy to rug, float, truck, shoe and catch. He has been ridden by a 14yr old the past few years. She does everything for him, catches rugs, puts him on the float and gets him ready.

He has taken his rider from 60cm to jumping confidently at 1Mt. He knows his job and aims to please his little rider. He will be missed in our stables and is only for sale due to moving to higher heights

It is now time for him to build the confidence of a new little person.

Contact: Naomi Oudshoorn

Ph: 0400 123 842

Powerplay

Price: $ 40,000. 16.3 ½ hh

Reg: WB/TB Bay Gelding YOB: 2009 Sire: Regal Poetry In Motion Dam: Spring Creek Elysium

PPis a well-performed show hunter hack with countless success across Australia. Most recently winning 1st ladies SH and 1st child's SH at Royal Melbourne Show 2022.

Aprevious Royal Show Champion in both child's and open classes and winner of the Childs Hunter Hack EANationals in 2019 and Reserve Champion Open Hunter Hack at the Grand Nationals. Not only is PPconsistently successful, he is a delight to do anything with.

Ridden at home with cows, dogs, peacocks and chickens - his temperament is unflappable. Has also been to the beach and loves a trail ride. He is an absolute delight to own and show and is ready to be someone else's best friend. Heartbreaking sale, genuine enquiries only.

Contact: Tildy Longbottom Ph: 0499 781 624

Kellot Lodge Hilltop

Price: $ 15,000. 15.3 hh

Reg: Part Bred Arabian Chestnut

Gelding YOB: 2016

Sire: Keilshoop HoneyHill

Dam: Touch of Tuscany

Summit has 3 good paces with a lovely nature! He has a great work ethic is willing to learn and loves the attention.

He has been shown in hand as a youngster, he has been to 4 shows in hand.

Gold Australian National Part bred champion as a 2 year old.

Summi would be best suited to a knowledgeable rider to continue his training.

Ready to take out and start competing under saddle.

Someone is going to have so much fun with this little guy.

Contact: Stacey Turner

Ph: 0438 092 478

Mirinda Lancelot

Price: $ 30,000 - with saddle, bridle and tail! 13.3 7/8 hh

Reg: EA| SHC | RPSB Grey Gelding YOB: 2013

Sire: Mirinda Field of Dreams

Dam: Rotherwood Matinee

Hank is the ultimate large show pony with that look at me presence and huge movement! Hank is offered for sale to only a 5 star show home. He is extremely successful in all events and is fully qualified for EANationals in Child’s large pony and Open large pony.

He is also fully qualified for GN in Child’s large pony and Open large pony 2023! Hank is also the ultimate rider class mount and has taken my daughter to qualify twice in her rider class and has also taken another rider to be runner up at GN! Always in the winners circle at the highest level shows!

Contact: Nicola Grubisa Ph: 0408 494 511

Ridgeview Park Royal Gossip

Price: $ 22,000. 13.2 hh

Reg: EA| SHC | RPSB Bay Gelding YOB: 2015

Sire: Braefoot Park Royal Occasion

Dam: Sanlirra Just Glitter

Qualified for Grand Nationals 2023, Open & Childs

Archie is a pleasure to do everything with, handled and ridden by my girls 11 & 13yo. He is a great ride, with some typical pony quirks, suitable Confident riders.

Recently competed at Adelaide Royal & EANationals

Genuine sale, girls moving onto bigger horses.

Contact: Claire Schaefer Ph: 0409 671 446

Location: Roseworthy SA

Dirigeree Park Regal Affair

Price: $ POA 14.0 hh

Reg: SHC | Riding Pony/Welsh Black/Brown Gelding YOB: 2010 Sire: Willowcroft Regal Alliance

Dam: Weston Caroline

Thomas is a well-educated show hunter pony with a look at me presence. He has proven to be a versatile pony with eye catching looks to match who has had a very successful show career to date Thomas is an excellent jumper but it more suited to showing. He is a pleasure to own quirks and all, easy to prep for shows, minimal work down. Currently in show condition

This is a very hard sale of a much loved pony, will only be sold to the best of homes. Would suit a confident teen or adult that knows there gears well. Saddle, double bridle and rugs available to purchase with Tom. Thomas does wind suck but is controlled with a collar and does not affect his weight. Full vet check welcome.

Contact: Chloe O'Connor Ph: 0421 873 404

Brigitte Bardot RA

Price: $ 6,500. 13.2 hh Reg: ARP, ASSP, APSB Partbred, Part Welsh Bay Filly YOB: 2020 Sire: Rezeema Klass Act

Dam: Morningside Cover Girl

On behalf of breeder

Brigitte has had a stellar start to her show career, winning many supremes as a weanling at foal shows and most recently at Rochester Ag show

Brigitte is easy to do everything with, and will easily break in and make an exceptional saddle pony in the future

Brigitte would suit someone who enjoys showing in pony breeds with also an option as a future brood mare. First to meet Brigitte will buy.

Contact: Nikki Ph: 0410 805 435

Show Hunter Galloway

Sire: Cheraton Blue Label Dam: Farleigh Juliet Bravo

National quality Show/Dressage Hunter Galloway at the start of his career. Austen ticks all the boxes for the winners circle. 3 amazing paces, beautiful conformation and easy temperament.

He has been professionally started over a 12 month period and is easily ridden by everyone in their stables, proving to be a potential child's Galloway, with more education the sky is the limit! He has excelled at his only 2 outings, with very minimal work down.

SHC HOTY: Champion lead show Hunter Galloway, Reserve newcomers "Champion Open" Small Hunter Galloway, Qualifies Grand Nationals 2023!

SARPOTY: Champion lead SH Gelding, Reserve ridden. Only for sale as I no longer have a rider at home, he was bred by myself to start and then find his perfect home. Genuine enquiries, more photos and video available.

Contact: Kelly Mules Ph: 0403 291 849

Bamborough Katnap

Price: $ 15,000. 12.2hh

Reg: Welsh | SHC | EV Grey Gelding

Sire: Llangollen Top Notch

Dam: Bamborough Kit Kat

Archie has successfully competed 2 seasons under-saddle and is qualified for GN 2023 in the first ridden show hunter pony.

Qualifying for Grand nationals at his first ever show under-saddle in 2021 and successfully competed at Grand nationals in 2022 receiving top 10 in both the open and child’s and producing flawless workouts.

Archie is not a spooky horse and is super easy to have around. He would happily stand tied up to the float all day. He is happy to pop over small jumps and go on trail rides. He is awesome to clip, shoe, wash etc.

We have owned Archie since a yearling and have done it all with him, it’s a super heartbreaking sale of a much loved member of our family but due to other young horses coming up we have realised it is time to sell Him.

Entered for SHC battle of the borders 2022 is fully qualified for Canberra and Sydney royals 2023.

Archie is not suited to a beginner rider and I feel he would really excel with a top little junior rider that wanted a competitive first ridden and rider mount that is also good enough for the open.

Contact: Taylah Ph: 0421 071 095

Cardwell Park Jezebel

Price: $ 10,000. 12.1 ½ hh

Reg: RPSB | WPCS | APSB | ARP|

SHC | EA

Bay Mare

Sire: Turberry Tom Kitten

Dam: Marconi Gold Sovereign

With her impeccable blood lines, huge movement, stunning looks and beautiful personality she has what it takes to take her next aspiring rider to the top. Belle is ready to continue on with her career and education. Would best be suited to a knowledgeable show home where she can continue her education. Very quiet & sensible, ridden by children & easy to do everything with. Has been successfully shown as a youngster.

Video Footage Link - https://youtu.be/pJUaMLAe7mo

Contact: Samantha Crouch

Ph: 0412 211 469

The Horse Report

Sue Spence’s “Horses Helping Humans™”

Horse Whispering' meets 'People Whispering' HHH is a life coaching program using principles of natural horsemanship to unlock effective communication skills and offers

Youth Programs

Private & Family Sessions

Corporate and School Workshops

Online training

Horses Helping Humans founder Sue Spence is a public speaker, workshop facilitator, author, and educator who teaches communication skills to corporate groups and underprivileged youth using the principles of natural horsemanship.

Sue was the first person to develop and identify different body language techniques for individual personality profiles. Her business, Horses Helping Humans™, has been featured in numerous reports, events, programs, awards, newspapers and magazines.

When in the arena, Sue and her horses facilitate immediate change in those they help, hence her great demand from youth organisations, support workers and mental health specialists. Join the HHH team by becoming a certified licenced facilitator in your area. For more information contact admin@horseshelpinghumansaustralia.com

Healing for Horses ...www.healingforhorses.com.au

Horse Transport … www.manuelequinetransport.com.au

Horse Transport … www.goldcoasthorsetransport.com.au

Horse Floats … www.mcneilltrailers.com

Bed Horse & Dog O’Tel..... www.nedsbed.com.au

Vet Clinic ... www.redlandsvetclinic.com.au

Classifieds... www.replayclassifieds.com.au

Riding for the Disabled............ www.sunshinecoastrda.com

Equine Feeds.......... www.stanceglobal.com

Electric Fencing.....www.stockguard.com.au

Southwood Saddlery... www.southwoodsaddlery.com.au

Horse Report ... www.thehorsereport.com

EQUINE & CANINE PATENT FORMULAS

We are proud to announce the release ofour two new patent formulations, BONE GOLDTM and COAT GOLDTM in both the Equine and Canine presentations.

Our Formulas have been granted Innovative Patents as they present as totally unique in the market and are clearly differentiated from all other supplements.

Our new products have been produced with the same attention to detail with the highest quality pharmaceutical grade ingredients manufactured in an Australian GMP approved site.

Unlike most other supplements made in feed barns or pet food factories, this guarantees the quality and quantity of each ingredient in all our products.

VET GOLDTM products are made in the same laboratories as many Veterinary Pharmaceuticals with the highest quality control standards in the Australian Veterinary industry.

Our products are developed with specialist bio-engineers focused on ensuring maximising product effectiveness balancing ingredient ratios and particle sizes to optimise physiological uptake, digestibility and stability.

Extensive research and development in conjunction with clinical testing and observation by Veterinary Surgeons on clinical equine and canine cases is conducted on all our products.

Dr Watts has lectured at Equine Veterinary Association meetings, at the University ofQueensland and runs regular remedial Equine podiatry workshops in conjunction with Veterinary colleagues and Farriers in addition to running a busy clinical Equine Practice.

VET GOLDTM is a family owned Australian business that takes pride in all our product range with comprehensive personal support with any questions answered directly by Dr Andrew Watts and his stoic knowledgeable partner Mel Watts. Please feel welcome to contact us anytime, we look forward to personally providing any technical or medical support or information regarding our products.

SUPPLEMENTS OF THE HIGHEST QUALITY

“BYE BYE FLY BYE FLY”

QUEENSLAND ITCH, SWEET ITCH, SUMMER ECZEMA and EQUINE ALLERGIC DERMATITIS are names for distressing skin conditions which affects horses in spring and summer months throughout Australia and around the world.

The usual cause is a hypersensitivity to the bites of flies (in particular sand flies or midges).

While the bite of the flies are an irritation, some horses develop sensitivity to the bite and will rub themselves so much that they cause injury to their skin.

Research shows the cause is an allergic reaction to the chemicals in the saliva of the midges (as with humans).

Not only that, but once or twice a day, stable lies come to the horse, feed vigorously for a minute or two, and then return to the shade to digest their food. These bites can cause intense irritation in some horses. The bites appear as small raised lumps with a central scab.

The effects on the horses can be dramatic. They suffer intense pruritus (itchiness) on the mane, tail, face, ears and back, resulting in biting, rubbing, hair loss, self-trauma and a change of temperament. They become miserable and irritable.

KURITCH has been specially formulated to help assist this problem effectively, in a number of ways:

Firstly, it repels the biting insects using the combination of the natural repellent “Citronella Oil” and a highly effective repellent “DEET”. Secondly, it soothes the irritated areas thus relieving the horse from biting and rubbing, which in turn allows the normal healing process to begin.

It achieves this by the inclusion of the natural antiseptic “Eucalyptus oil” and Camphor oil” which naturally relieves itchy skin.

These significant benefits are also enhanced by the “Rain Resistant” and “Low irritant” formula. As it doesn’t contain alcohol (prevalent in most fly sprays) it won’t “sting” the horse. It can also be applied to surface wounds, minor cuts and skin abrasions to help prevent irritation and possible infection by nuisance insects.

Registered by the APVMA in Australia for over 40 years, extensive field experience has proven KURITCH to be a most effective solution for both preventing and healing distressing skin conditions caused by biting insects.

As well as KURITCH as a repellent, environmental management will also assist in protecting your horse.

Midges breed near stagnant water. As they don’t fly more than a few hundred metres from their breeding area, housing or paddocking your horses more than 500 metres from those areas will reduce their exposure to the flies.

Also rugging, hooding or stabling your horses between the hours of 4pm – 7am during spring and summer will limit the contact of the flies.

Should your horse already be suffering from the effects of allergic skin dermatitis, ensure you use QUIT ITCH to treat and relieve the effects of insect bites.

Since the 1970’s, QUIT ITCH has been an essential weapon in the fight against skin disorders in horses. nd es so nd n’t an s, lp c in n en ve nd ns nt, so er. w ng ur m re