Correct saddle fit is fundamental to equine comfort, performance and, above all, welfare. Yet one of the most common, and most misunderstood issues affecting ridden horses is saddle slip.

Dr Sue Dyson, Independent Consultant takes a look recent research into how effective acoustic ear covers for horses really are.

What is Equine Welfare?

In addressing whether there is a conflict between providing good welfare and optimising performance, Roly suggests that the starting point must be clarity around definitions.
“We need to consider what we mean by ‘welfare’, and what we mean by ‘performance’,” he explains.

Gillian introduces her new horse, George, and shares what she has learnt about him so far, along with her plans for the journey ahead.

Ex-racehorses are incredible athletes — powerful, brave, and full of heart. But when it comes to retraining them for a new career, their early education means they often need help developing balance, coordination, and suppleness in ways that weren’t required on the racetrack.

Kirsty’s research focuses on structural asymmetry, the subtle, often invisible differences between the left and right sides of a horse’s body.

Strangles is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus equi, - infecting the horse’s upper respiratory tract. It’s highly infectious and can be transmitted through direct contact between horses or indirectly on equipment, surfaces, hands, clothes and in water.

Equine gastric ulcers are one of the most frequently discussed health issues in horses. Owners and riders often link ulcers to a range of performance and behaviour problems — from irritability and girthiness to weight loss and poor coat condition.

With so many professionals offering equine dental services across the UK, it can be difficult to know who is best qualified and what level of care your horse truly needs. One of the most common and most important questions horse owners ask is: “Who should I trust to look after my horse’s teeth?”

For any animal, or human to perform to their full potential, they must be pain-free. In the horse world we readily accept that back pain or lameness affects a horse’s performance, but dental pain is often overlooked and is something that can have a profound impact, even if it’s less obvious.