From a rider or owner’s point of view, luxury might be in what you see: pristine paintwork, high-end finishes, a glossy nameplate, and features that take some of the effort out of daily chores, like smart storage that doesn’t clutter or catch cobwebs.

However, a luxury stable’s focus should be its primary occupant: the horse. Keeping stabled horses happy and healthy should be of upmost importance and they have an altogether different set of needs, from enrichment to hygiene.

If you want to treat your horse (and yourself) to a perfect stable, here is what you need to consider…

Ventilation

“Good ventilation is essential for maintaining a healthy environment for both horses and people,” says Victoria Webb, sales representative at Monarch Stables. “Fresh air helps remove moisture, dust and ammonia, reducing the risk of respiratory problems while creating a more comfortable stable environment.”

According to Prime Stables, a good ventilation system uses a combination of openings and sometimes mechanical stable fans to ensure airflow throughout the entire building.

“Moisture is an especially serious issue,” says a spokesman. “Just as a poorly ventilated bathroom accumulates steam and mould, horse stalls can fill with damp air as horses sweat, breathe, and generate heat.

“This dampness encourages mould spores, dust mites and ammonia, all of which are harmful irritants for horses and humans.”

Ways to improve your stable’s ventilation and hygiene include:

• Adding design elements such as stable vents or louvre windows, or larger windows that also allow natural light in
• Installing a ceiling or stable fan
• Choosing the right type of bedding to minimise dust
• Regular removal and cleaning of stable mats, or installing sealed matting

Feeding and enrichment

Installing gadgets and products makes watering and feeding horses fit more seamlessly into the daily routine. “The best stable extras can be the ones that make everyday jobs easier,” says Victoria.

“A wall-mounted hay feeder such as Ezehay can help keep hay off the floor, reduce mess and minimise waste, while providing a dedicated place for feeding,” she continues. “Its capacity of up to 13.5kg of dry hay can also make it useful for reducing the number of times hay needs to be replenished throughout the day.”

Victoria also recommends automatic drinkers. “Think about items that support both the horse and owner routine.”

Horse-focused enrichment upgrades include…

• Installing talk grilles that allow horses to touch. You can even go bespoke with designing your stable yard and lower the stall partition height to allow horses to groom one another from their stables
• Adding food-based enrichment to slow down chewing like hay pillows, slow feeders and small-holed haynets
• Using boredom busters, stable toys, treat balls or mirrors to entertain your horse

Aesthetics and storage

You can create the feel of a luxury stable with tidiness.

“Good storage is essential,” says Victoria. “Rug rails, tack storage and dedicated areas for feed and equipment help prevent items being left around the yard and improve the overall look.

“Small details make a big difference and giving everything a designated place makes the yard easier to keep clean and organised.”

Being smart at the construction stage will help you preserve the new stable look.

“A clean and attractive yard often comes down to choosing materials and accessories that are both practical and easy to maintain,” says Victoria.

“Durable stable finishes, well-designed doors and windows, and hard-wearing infill materials can all help a yard continue to look good with regular use. Powder-coated finishes can provide a consistent colour scheme, while hardwood or recycled plastic infills offer different aesthetic and maintenance options.”

Quick yard hacks to improve aesthetics include…

• Placing hooks strategically for your headcollars, fly masks, grooming kits and other things in use (you just might need to adapt them with a bit of baler twine to hang them with first), hats and coats. You could even add some shelves
• Pop up some wall-mounted broom grips (like these ones on Amazon) to keep your mucking out tools tidy
• Install a foldable wall-mounted saddle rack (I found this one on Amazon) to store your tack tidily before and after you tack up. No more chucking it on the floor or over the stable door!

Construction

You can build a luxury stable from scratch or add elements to existing stables to improve the feel.

Space is the most obvious luxury, and if you can size up from a standard stable (12ftx12ft), your horse will feel the benefits of freedom to move. That’s what Miri Hackett did on her yard, and she told us she noticed a big difference in her horses’ relaxation.

Other construction elements that elevate a box to luxury stable include:

• Adding a canopy. “A canopy provides shade and protection from rain, creating a sheltered area outside the stables where you and your horses can stand comfortably in all weathers,” says a spokesman for Chart Stables.
• Thoughtful consideration of access. “Planning wider walkways, positioning tack and feed rooms where they are easy to reach and ensuring stable doors don't clash when opened can make a significant difference,” says Victoria of Monarch Stables.
• Internal kickboarding. “Fitted around the interior walls, kickboarding absorbs impact and prevents splintering or structural wear,” says the Chart Stables spokesman. “It also creates a smoother, safer surface inside each stall.”

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We know that the happiest horses have the three Fs – freedom, forage and friends – in abundance. But how do you replicate these welfare pillars in a traditional setting where horses have their own stables?

Working with Monarch, Hertfordshire-based holistic horse trainer Miri Hackett forged an innovative solution.

“Horses are herd animals, and it was very important to build spaces that enable herd dynamics while still offering a level of individuality,” she tells Horse & Hound.

“In an ideal world we wouldn’t have stables at all; we would have big barns where horses come and live in herds together.”

However, like many yards, Miri has a high turnover with horses coming in for training and rehab for short periods, so a large herd would be frequently disrupted.

“My reality is that horses often come in with injuries, or underdeveloped social skills,” Miri continues. “So, I needed to balance building a training facility that gave horses their own spaces with fulfilling their social needs.

“Monarch totally delivered my vision – it’s the first design they have done like this.”

Miri’s stables feature a curved partition that is low enough on one side to allow horses to touch noses and groom, then slopes up to full height gradually so horses have free choice to interact – or not – with their neighbours and form important horse friendships.

“When we moved the whole herd to the new place, they settled really quickly because they could all touch, mutually groom and stand with each other.”

Miri says the stable design has contributed to an oasis-like calm in her barn.

“The most of the stables are 14x14’, so they have plenty of room,” she explains. “I think that’s part of it. And I’ve never known horses sleep so much as they do here.

“At the moment, they stay out all night and come in during the day, and once they’ve been fed and done their training, they will often lie flat out snoring. It’s so unbelievably peaceful.”

How to design a stable yard: focus on facilities

The success of Miri’s design comes from thoughtful planning of her stable design ideas and lessons learned from experience.

“I’ve been on quite a few yards, so I know what works and what doesn’t,” she explains. “For example, one place had the tack room miles from the stables. It was nobody’s fault, it was just how it was set up, but it was awkward if you forgot anything.”

Miri’s tack and feed rooms are placed at the front of the barn (left in the image below) with the stables around the edge and in the middle, meaning feed and equipment are always close at hand, and the walkways are wide and inviting.

“I think this helps make it all feel very safe,” she says. “There isn’t anywhere that a horse might feel confined.”

Creating an open and inviting wash bay was another important point for Miri.

“Wash bays are often put in a dark corner out of the way,” she continues. “But I wanted it to feel like this big, lovely, open, safe space right at the front of the barn.

“I worked with Jelka who supplied a lot of rubber matting. We’ve put down this matting that’s grippy but porous, so you don’t get water sitting on top.

“The aim was make sure that horses feel able to rest while they have a bath, not just have to put up with it.”

Sustainability as a horse owner is another of Miri’s priorities, and her arena surface is plastic-free.

“This means we aren’t leeching microplastics into the environment and it is watered from the bottom, so the surface is really consistent.”

What are the challenges faced when designing your own yard?

In Miri’s project, the principal hurdles included:

Finances

“I didn’t want to just go for the cheapest option, and if you want to create something that meets your needs and is built to last, it is going to be expensive.”

The weather

“Building the arena was difficult. We were having to construct it in January and February, which is about as bad as it gets and the mud was terrible.

“As long as you have someone reliable, dedicated and ultra-professional to do your groundwork – we used Elmtree construction – they will get you through it and keep you on top of things.”

Hindsight

“There’s always something you wish you’d thought of, and for me that’s including a grass-free track turnout system. It’s something I want to build in the future, but I just wish I'd included it in the original project.”

Tips for designing your own yard

Miri says that it pays to dedicate a lot of time to planning the yard design.

“If you have an opportunity, really sit down and plan. For years, I hoped I would get the tenancy of this farm. I spent all of that time thinking, ‘OK, where would this go? That could go there, that would go here’.

“If you can, make the stables bigger than you would think. For me, there is no such thing as too big a stable, especially if your horse spends part of his day in there regularly. Making it so horses can touch and be social will make a difference, too.”

While she acknowledges that budgets can be restrictive, Miri says that the cheapest option isn’t always the right choice.

“Get multiple quotes, have conversations, and get people to come and visit and see the site to gain an accurate picture of what they can do. There are so many amazing people out there with a wealth of knowledge and ideas if you let them give their opinion.”

It also pays to be thorough – the right company will relish this.

“I spent a long time going backwards and forwards on things. Monarch went above and beyond when it came to showing me why they were worth what they were asking for.

“They let me go to their factory to see how things were made. They took me to a yard they had built that they thought I would like to see. Most importantly, they came out so many times and looked at the layout, and we played around with it; they were so open to every idea.”

Miri’s ultimate tip is having sight of a prospective company’s existing work.

“There are people out there who will do the work you want for a fair price to a high standard. Having proof of this before you proceed will fill you with confidence and set you up for success.”

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Scientists presented new findings, undertaken in collaboration with equine feed company Spillers, on laminitis risk, grazing management and the equine microbiome at the 13th European workshop on equine nutrition in Lisbon last month.

They gave eight presentations covering 11 studies, of which seven offered new insights into reducing the risk of laminitis and advancing understanding of the equine digestive system and microbiome.

This huge body of research has also resulted in valuable findings and practical advice for owners.

Most cases of laminitis are related to high levels of insulin in the blood. In many, it is triggered by an equine eating enough non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) or “starch and sugar” to raise insulin levels.

Spring grass was shown to contain consistently high levels of NSC through the day and overnight, resulting in high insulin levels in horses with insulin dysregulation (ID) and some non-ID horses.

In late summer, NSC levels in grass peaked at 7pm and were lowest early in the morning. Insulin responses in ID horses mirrored these changes.

Moving from grass to a grass-free dry lot and feeding low NSC hay significantly reduced insulin levels after 24 hours in five of the six ID horses studied.

Grazing muzzles may help reduce insulin response in some horses, although their effectiveness varies between individuals and may be influenced by grass NSC levels.

“In terms of practical advice for horse owners the studies show we mustn’t assume early morning turnout is always safe during periods when grass NSC levels remain high,” said Edd Knowles, science and nutrition director at Mars Horsecare, Spillers’ parent company.

“Even metabolically healthy horses can produce high amounts of insulin when grazing high-NSC pasture, while insulin-dysregulated horses may still require restricted grazing even when grass sugar levels are relatively low.

“Complete removal from pasture may be necessary for horses at greatest risk especially during high-risk periods such as spring and autumn, while veterinary guidance and individual testing remain essential, as horses can respond very differently to the same forage.”

H&H vet Karen Coumbe, who was not involved in the studies, told H&H research in this area is “so very important”.

“Weight control needs to be taken seriously in horses and it is excellent that research like this is under way to provide evidence as to what is the best course of action,” said Dr Coumbe.

Pat Harris, who co-authored all eight abstracts presented with Spillers, told H&H these are part of a series of studies undertaken at the University of Kentucky with Dr Amanda Adams that are trying to provide better advice on the level of NSCs that should be provided, especially in severely ID horses.

She said this work has enabled Spillers to give a guide starting point from which people can then work with the vet and nutritionist, but stressed that horses are all individuals.

“Using this research Spillers has put together good general advice, which is very valuable and gives some good starting points, but you may have to tailor it and consider monitoring for an individual animal, especially if you're concerned,” said Dr Harris.

She suggested that for owners concerned about the NSC levels of their pasture, 3-7pm would be a good time to test their animals for insulin. Dr Harris also noted that even if a horse is out on a low-NSC pasture, using a properly fitted grazing muzzle, may help reduce insulin even further and might help reduce the risk of obesity.

She also agreed with Dr Knowles that during periods when pasture NSC levels are high, there is “no real safe time” especially for a severely ID animal to be grazing and noted that it is not only overweight or obese animals that can be ID.

“Even some of the non-ID horses when turned out on that high-NSC pasture also ended up with high insulin values,” she said. “Just because you've tested your animal and found they are not insulin dysregulated, it does not mean there is not a laminitis risk when they're out on high-NSC pastures.”

● What do you think? Let us know your thoughts at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your thoughts published in a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine

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New research from Hartpury, Swedish and Dutch universities and equestrian marketing company EQuerry looked into aspects of care and practice that owners consider essential for safeguarding equine welfare.

The study, titled “What is Welfare? A Qualitative Study into Perceptions of Equine Welfare of Horse Owners ” was published in the International Journal of Equine Science in June.

Co-author Victoria Lewis told H&H the idea behind the research was sparked by a study fellow author Inga Wolframm had done in the Netherlands. Dr Wolframm shared the initial survey she had used, which featured questions based around various scenarios, and the researchers adapted these for this project.

The study posed eight open-ended questions – the kind that might come up in the real world. For example, “A friend wants to stable her horse at a livery/boarding facility with welfare as a top priority. What advice would you give her?” Others included what someone – who has just started riding – should know or be able to do, what owners wish they had known when they started their journey with horses, their thoughts on traditional training methods and what the focus should be on to improve horse welfare in all areas of their lives.

“I think it allowed for maybe some more in-depth answers than potentially we would have got from just a standard survey,” said Dr Lewis.

The team had 341 responses and Dr Lewis said some interesting themes cropped up during the analysis. Welfare was a high priority, and people are particularly keen on ensuring that horses have regular turnout and access to other horses, but this can be a struggle, particularly at livery yards.

She said another point that “jumped out” is that people want to find coaches with good knowledge, but also with high ethics and welfare standards.

More education also came up as a key area, and that it needs to be focused on evidence-based scientific research into what welfare is and looks like.

Dr Lewis added that an overall “strong theme” from the research is that owners considered horse welfare as a “key priority”.

“I was impressed with the fact there was quite good knowledge of what they thought equine welfare should be, linked quite closely to some of the evidence base and research that's been done,” she said.

“I think the more we can learn how to do things better, and share that knowledge, the better it's going to be for the individual horses.”

Other interesting points included how welfare is not just about technical knowledge or management practices, it “is deeply affected by the cognitive and moral frameworks through which humans understand their role in the horse-human relationship”.

The study looked at how owners’ beliefs about sentience, emotional capacity and behavioural interpretation “profoundly shape the lived experience of horses”. It also highlighted that owners who “actively sought out new scientific knowledge... may be more equipped or willing to question traditional practices and implement humane alternatives”.

“Owner behaviour is not static but evolves through exposure to coaching, education and self-reflection,” states the study. “Programs aimed at welfare enhancement should therefore include not just practical skills, but also opportunities for critical engagement with ethical and scientific principles.

“By embedding personal development into equestrian education, the industry can better support the transition from outdated views of horsemanship towards practices rooted in empathy, evidence and ethical integrity.”

It concludes that the findings “affirm a widespread and genuine concern for horse welfare”, adding, “The next step lies in empowering individuals through evidence-based guidance and accessible education to embed welfare-focused practices into everyday routines.

“Strengthening this connection between intention and action is essential for ensuring a more ethical, informed and sustainable future for horses and the people who care for them.”

● Read the full study: https://rasayely-journals.com/index.php/ijes/article/view/219/154

● What do you think? Let us know your thoughts at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your thoughts published in a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine

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Parasite specialist Westgate Labs is urging people to stick to eight- to 12-week testing intervals as the high temperatures are replicating conditions in 2025, when “significantly more” horses needed treatment than usual.

“As 2026 has already brought record-breaking spring temperatures and repeated summer heatwaves, the laboratory is encouraging owners to keep to the recommended testing intervals, even for horses that have historically returned low worm egg counts,” a spokesperson for Westgate Labs said.

The company has analysed more than 50,000 egg count results from last autumn and winter and found that 27% of horses exceeded the treatment threshold, compared to 21% in 2024-2025 and 18% the previous year.

“After allowing for the normal seasonal rise in egg shedding through autumn and winter, the increase remained statistically significant,” the spokesperson said.

“The small redworm has a fast lifecycle of around four to six weeks. Experts have summarised that the warm weather accelerates the larval development phase of the parasites, allowing horses to become more readily infected as they graze. This, combined with burnt-off paddocks and low grass growth means reduced opportunity to rest and rotate grazing. With less forage available, horses have been cropping the grass closer to the soil and dung piles, further increasing infection potential.”

Misconceptions

Westgate Labs director Kristy Hodgson said a common misconception is that a horse “looks fine” so testing can be delayed.

“Last year’s data showed that isn’t always the case,” she said.

“Regular testing allows us to spot changes before they become a problem. If owners stretch the interval between tests, there’s a greater chance that horses shedding higher numbers of parasite eggs will contaminate the pasture for longer, increasing infection pressure for the whole group.

“Testing every eight to 12 weeks means you’re responding to what’s happening now, rather than what happened three or four months ago. This intervention could easily prevent a bigger problem down the line.”

Research suggests that warmer temperatures and milder winters are likely to favour parasite development. England has had its warmest spring on record this year, and there have been heatwaves and droughts across the country.

To encourage testing, Westgate Labs is offering a daily prize draw from 17 to 28 August. One customer, drawn at random, will get their next tests for free, to the value of the tests submitted. The draw will take place on social media, each day, Monday to Friday.

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“It’s important to remember that horses are generally gregarious animals who live within complex social systems,” she says. “For them, the group means safety and survival, so their brains are adapted to seek out partners.”

Social interaction is so important for horses, it’s recognised within the five freedoms of equine welfare.

“We know that developing and maintaining social relationships and hierarchical positions are second only to getting food in what horses do all day, given the opportunity,” says equine behaviour consultant Dr Debbie Marsden.

“This is not surprising as for herd animals like horses, ‘fitting in’ and ‘getting along’ is vital for survival, and a network of established relationships is essential to minimise aggression and conserve energy.”

Given horses are hardwired to rely on social bonds for survival, it’s no wonder they’re picky about their friends.

“Horses living in a group tend to have one to three preferred partners; they often spend a lot of time together and synchronise their activities,” says Claire.

But, as anyone who’s ever tried to integrate a new horse into an existing group knows, predicting where horse friendships will blossom isn’t easy. It’s an area of equine behaviour in which Debbie would like to see more research.

“We don’t know which horses will get along or become friends until we put them together,” she says. “It would be really useful to be able to ‘profile’ or predict this.”

Becky Moody on matchmaking equine neighbours and forming horse friendships

For international dressage rider Becky Moody, giving the horses on her yard the opportunity to socialise is important but requires careful matchmaking.

“It can be difficult to manage on a yard like this, as you have a lot of strong characters in your competition horses!” she says. “So I 100% choose carefully. Some horses, when turned out, are relatively solitary, not bothered about the one that’s next to them, and then others spend the entire time playing with each other.”

When Becky put in round pens for winter turnout, socialising was an important factor in their design.

“The pens are in pairs and we have a low bit between them, so the horses can interact and they do spend a lot of time playing with each other. That was really important to me, that they had that opportunity.”

Lizzie Wray is the yard owner at Shadowmere Equine Retirement Livery, Lincs. Whenever a new horse arrives, she uses their 14-day biosecurity procedure to get to know the horse and their personality, before choosing which she thinks is the most suitable group for them to join.

“We then bring the group we think will be good to the next paddock, and let them get to know each other safely, over the fence,” she says. “Once we’re happy, we’ll introduce the newbie into the herd.”

Even then, she doesn’t take any chances.

“Say we’re introducing a fourth horse to an existing group of three, we always have four members of staff on hand in case it doesn’t work and we need to remove the newbie and rethink.

“We have come across ones that hate each other,” she continues. “We’ve got one mare who just doesn’t like this one gelding – she can’t even look at him, the poor boy is doing nothing to her!”

Lizzie says it can take two or three weeks for a group to settle, but if it’s not working, they’ll try something else.

“If they don’t get on, or it’s not meeting their needs, then we’ll try another group.”

Some horses seem to struggle more socially than others.

“It does seem to be a particular characteristic of the bullied animal, not the bullies, but we don’t know how to assess for it,” says Debbie.

“They may just not be giving out the ‘expected’ social signals, or giving out the wrong ones. And there may be as yet unknown pheromonal signs or some other communication we’re not aware of.”

It’s thought poor social skills stem from the horse’s upbringing and a lack of opportunity to interact at an early age, and Debbie says it’s unclear if this can be corrected in later life.

“We don’t know how to teach or improve these social skills, other than by offering varied social experiences in later years.”

A healthy, well-established equine bond is characterised as much by what we don’t see as what we do, which presents a challenge when trying to study it.

“Simple ‘acceptance’ and ‘tolerance’ is a huge part of equine social behaviour. It’s hard for scientists to measure or investigate ‘nothing happening’,” explains Debbie.

“There is probably a lot more communication and subtle social behaviour going on than we are aware of. One thing we do know is that, once established, these relationships last for a great many years.”

For Lizzie, running a retirement livery means facing the inevitable – having to manage a horse whose close companion has died.

“Horses absolutely grieve,” she confirms. “We had two geldings who were particularly drawn to each other and very happy, but the younger one was sadly riddled with arthritis and had to be put to sleep.

“For two weeks afterwards, the surviving gelding was completely off his food and lethargic. We thought he was going to die of a broken heart, but eventually he quietly slipped into the other herd and they seemed to support him.”

Lizzie is a big advocate of allowing horses to see what’s happening when a horse is euthanised, “So they can process it, and they don’t think, where’s he gone?”

Apart from the unavoidable end of life, Lizzie and her team try not to separate any of the horses on their yard.

“These horses are not out competing,” she points out. “They come in through the gates and don’t leave until it’s time for them to be put to sleep. We don’t turn out or bring in alone, and if a horse is on box rest for some reason, they always have a buddy.”

On a busy competition yard, where horses are constantly coming and going, managing attachments requires careful consideration, as five-star event rider Millie Dumas explains.

“You have to find the right groups of horses to take to a show, for example, and sometimes you have to separate horses so that an attachment doesn’t become a performance issue,” she says. “If you want to get the best out of them, they also have to be happy and content in their home environment. We don’t want stressed horses.”

Separation anxiety in horses – what we know

Separation anxiety is something many owners are aware of, but surprisingly little is actually known about it. In her previous role at the University of Lincoln, Claire undertook a study into owners’ experiences of separation anxiety. The results, based on 88 responses, were published earlier this year.

“More than 90% of the respondents believed they had a horse that had suffered with separation anxiety or knew someone owning a horse who they believed had suffered from separation anxiety,” she says. “However, in the scientific literature, little is known about separation anxiety despite it being commonly discussed in the popular press and by owners.

“Our research demonstrated that it’s more complicated than we might think.”

The research found that how separation anxiety manifests differs from horse to horse. It was observed in different contexts, as it depended on whether the horse was being left behind or was actively leaving, and occurred at different points during the process.

“This was separated into ‘during preparation’ for departure, when ‘actively leaving or being left’, when there is an ‘initial barrier to contact’ and finally when there is a ‘loss of contact’,” Claire explains.

“Moreover, we identified several signs potentially associated with separation anxiety, ranging from increased arousal – for example hypervigilance – to apathy.”

The research concluded that care needs to be taken not to overgeneralise.

Claire also points out that more research is needed on how to prevent separation anxiety occurring.

“There’s no scientific literature on the benefits of training horses through graduated periods of controlled isolation to cope with separation from a companion or group,” she says. “Until we get more data, our recommendations remain ‘best guess’.

“However, gradually training young horses to cope with separation as a preventative measure is advisable.”

For Millie, this training is an important part of a horse’s education. She’s seen first-hand the problems that can occur without it.

“We’ve had liveries in the past, often older horses that have perhaps lived their life with one other horse and gone everywhere together. Because they’ve never been taught to be independent, they’ve become insecure without their companion by their side,” she says.

“We’ve managed these types of horses by making sure that they have the right sort of company next door to them, ones who give off a calm demeanour.

“It’s important to teach horses from a young age gradually to be independent as well as have company, to be able to leave it and come back,” she explains.

“We have a lot of young horses and I think it’s really important they learn that, as well as having that downtime where they can socialise with other horses.”

Becky agrees, and adds that hacking can play a big part in this early training.

“We hack all our young ones a lot, they do always hack in pairs and getting each one to walk in front and be confident makes a big difference to how they are at a competition.”

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Simply put, water buffets involve offering horses multiple water buckets with different extra ingredients in each. Various retailers sell starter kits with herbs and other additions you can put in clean water buckets.

Independent equine nutritionist Clare MacLeod tells us: “Some owners are interested in using them as a way to offer their horses variety and environment enrichment.”

Offering variety, however, does not mean a horse will self-select particular nutrients in accordance with their needs.

“We have to remember that a number of horses and ponies are harmed every year by eating poisonous plants like acorn and ragwort, and some by eating too much grass,” says Clare.

“Self-selection is a nice idea and it is a good thing to offer horses more choice, but we cannot rely on our horses to always know what is good for them, nor be able to select a balanced diet. Researchers have shown that horses will consistently select a sweetened feed over a balanced feed.”

That said, Clare adds that it can be useful for finding out the flavourings your horse likes.

“Knowing what tastes they like means you can replicate their preferences when you are away from home at riding camps, clinics or competitions, when some horses may be reluctant to drink different water.”

What to put in water buffets for horses

Herbs that are commonly added to water buffets include:

• Chamomile
• Ginger
• Turmeric
• Peppermint
• Cleavers
• Fenugreek
• Rosehips
• Dandelions
• Aniseed
• Fennel
• Cinnamon
• Garlic 
• Spirulina
• Cider apple vinegar

Other common additions are clays and a variety of mineral salts, and sometimes fruit and vegetable pieces or fruit juice.

Golden rules of setting up a water buffet

Clare says that, at best, a water buffet adds variety and interest to your horse’s day-to-day. At worst, water buffets for horses can be a breeding ground for bacteria and potentially do more harm than good.

Clare’s rules of thumb to follow when setting up a water buffet are:

1. Keep buckets clean

“When I visit yards, I see a lot of water sources that are unclean,” says Clare. “While horses will happily drink from a puddle, there is a distinction to be made between a pool of natural rainwater and a dirty container of water that is stagnant and stale.

“Keeping buckets of water clean is especially important when you start mixing organic matter. You can create a lot of bacteria, which I’m not sure people always realise.”

According to Clare, horses are particularly susceptible to digestive disturbances, such as colic, due to their delicate digestive tracts.

“Therefore, we want to keep contact with preventable bacteria and potential pathogens to a minimum.”

2. Balance the diet

“Everything a horse ingests should be considered as part of a balanced diet,” says Clare.

“We always need to balance the diet first, considering any extras like what's added to water, then consider adding extras like herbs, which are generally added for their properties, and not essential nutrients.

“Speak to an independent nutritionist about what you plan to use if you aren’t sure.”

3. Plain water is essential

Clean, plain water should be offered at all times and as well as water with added ingredients.

Does a water buffet make horses drink more?

Some owners use water buffets to encourage their horses to drink more water, which could help support good hydration and prevent dehydration.

“We have research that tells us horses prefer things that taste sweet,” she says. “So, if you are in a situation where you really need your horse to drink, adding something sweet like apple juice will likely be the most attractive flavouring.

“Of course, you need to be guided by any underlying conditions your horse or pony might have. You wouldn't want to be tipping an unknown amount of sugar into the water of a horse with equine metabolic syndrome (EMS), which now often described as insulin dysregulation (ID) or hyperinsulinaemia-associated laminitis (HAL), for example.

“If your main aim is to rehydrate your horse, for example after heavy sweating, then the quickest and most efficient way to do this is with an oral rehydration solution (ORS), which has a very specific electrolyte salt content, at 0.9%.”

While she is for anything that represents positive enrichment in a horse’s environment, Clare adds that owners would benefit from ensuring their time is spent doing so in the best possible way for their horses.

“In some cases, the time spent keeping multiple water buffet buckets clean and fresh every day might be better used taking your horse out for more exercise.”

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The Defra white paper, published on 9 July, outlines major reforms to the veterinary sector and paves the way for regulating others working in animal care under one overarching system. This includes farriers, barefoot trimmers, chiropractors, equine dental technicians and more.

It includes proposals to regulate veterinary and animal healthcare businesses – not just individual vets – and protect the title “veterinary nurse” so it is only used by qualified professionals. Other titles could be added to the protected list in future.

It also sets out plans for a new licence-to-practise system for vets, vet nurses and allied veterinary professionals, a veterinary ombudsman for a clearer complaints process and a fitness-to-practise system focused on current risk and competence rather than only past misconduct. It proposes to abolish the Farriers Registration Council (FRC), as farriers would be regulated by the new system.

The white paper also considers the Competition and Marketing Authority (CMA) recommendations into pricing and transparency, following the CMA report (news, 2 April). It states that time to discuss it will be secured “as soon as parliamentary time allows”.

Tim Hutchinson, president of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, the regulatory body for veterinary surgeons in the UK, said these proposed reforms “are even more significant for the public interest and animal health and welfare” than the CMA recommendations.

“These changes are essential for protecting animal health and welfare and for maintaining public confidence in the veterinary professions,” he said.

H&H vet Karen Coumbe said she is “very positive” about the reforms, adding that this is a “crucially important topic for the wider veterinary world, not just equine vets”.

“Defra’s proposals are significant for the public interest and animal health and welfare, however as with everything, the devil will be in the detail,” she said.

“In recent years, many veterinary practices have changed from small mixed practice ‘James Herriot’ style surgeries to large, often single-species businesses, not necessarily owned by vets.

“Currently individual vets themselves and registered vet nurses are held accountable for their actions, but the veterinary practices where they work are not fully regulated, when they should be. This applies to every single veterinary business, all of which need to focus on their responsibilities to their staff and most importantly the animals under their care.

“This should apply for all animals, be they farm animals, domestic pets or horses or any other animal undergoing any form of care or treatment.”

She added that currently, the qualification of a veterinary nurse is not properly recognised and, and welcomed the proposal that this title be protected and reserved for those who “are properly trained and appropriately responsible for animals under their care”.

Dr Coumbe also said that anyone involved in looking after and treating any animal ought to be fully regulated.

The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) has set out an explainer on its website, breaking down what the proposed reforms mean for equine vets, nurses, students and allied professionals.

“For BEVA members, the key message is this: the white paper supports long-overdue reform, but the equine detail now matters enormously. BEVA will be working to make sure the final legislation and the rules that follow it are safe, proportionate and workable for equine practice,” said a BEVA spokesperson.

The FRC responded to the Defra consultation this year, saying that it disagrees with the reform as proposed in the consultation, but is “open to reform where it delivers better regulation for the benefit of animals and the public”. It stated that “what is proposed appears to fly in the face of Government’s own desire for better targeted, agile and proportionate regulation”.

On 17 July, a FRC spokesperson told H&H: “The observations made by the council in response to the Government consultation were valid and relevant to the issue of new veterinary legislation. That they have not been adopted in the white paper – for which no explanation has yet been offered – makes them no less valid and relevant now.”

● What do you think? Let us know your thoughts at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your thoughts published in a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine

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Today (16 July) the Government has launched a public fireworks consultation on “common-sense proposals” that would mean the loudest fireworks could be used only in professional displays.

– Take part in the public fireworks consultation.

The aim is to “crack down on anti-social behaviour and protect vulnerable people, pets and wildlife” and “target a small number of fireworks which have caused distress for residents across the country for too long”, but allow professional displays to continue as before.

This follows multiple debates in parliament sparked by hundreds of thousands of signatures on petitions calling for tougher firework laws, as well as sustained campaigning.

Redwings Horse Sanctuary, one of 19 charities in the Fireworks Impact Coalition highlighting the effect of fireworks can have on people, pets, horses, farm animals and wildlife, has been working for change for years.

Fireworks consultation welcomed

“Having campaigned for improved fireworks regulations after tragically losing three of our own rescued horses due to loud fireworks, Redwings knows the scale of distress, suffering and risk to life that fireworks cause every year, not only to horses, but to the people around them,” said Redwings campaigns manager Helen Whitelegg. “In our survey of more than 5,000 UK horse owners, over 95% told us they wanted to see tighter fireworks regulations; loud bangs cited as the most significant risk factor.

“We therefore warmly welcome the news today that the Government will be consulting with the public on this issue and would encourage animal lovers everywhere to participate and have their say on behalf of those who cannot speak for themselves. These proposals aim to tackle the biggest concerns raised by the public – particularly noise and antisocial behaviour – while protecting cherished traditions and organised displays that bring communities together.”

The consultation also includes proposals to review whether other high-risk products should be banned from public sale.

Ms Whitelegg said: “When our petition was discussed by 58 MPs in parliamentary debate in January, we heard several MPs echo the thoughts of Robbie Moore, MP for Keighley and Ilkley, when he said, ‘the time for talk is over and we need action now’. Petition debates have become an almost annual event, and we welcome the public consultation as a key step on the road to meaningful regulatory change that will help protect both animals and people.”

MP’s campaign

Luton MP Sarah Owen introduced a private member’s bill to restrict the noise and sale of fireworks, nearly two years ago. Ms Owen has told H&H she often hears of the “absolute distress” caused by fireworks.

She said today: “It has been over 20 years since our fireworks laws have been looked into, so this review is a major win for the campaign to finally deal with the problem of antisocial fireworks that affects so many across the country.

“Ever since I became an MP in 2019, I have been saying our out-of-date fireworks laws needed to change – it’s so good to see this become reality.

“Between the licensing loophole, high noise limits and lack of proper enforcement, our current laws mean misery for residents, often for months on end. It undermines trust that the council and police can act on things that make life worse for people and turns neighbour against neighbour.

“I look forward to engaging with the Government in its review and continuing to make the argument for change.”

The RSPCA’s head of public affairs David Bowles said the charity is “thrilled by this major step forward”.

“We now urge pet owners and animal lovers across England and Wales to act now and give their voice to this consultation and help ensure safer and more responsible use of fireworks,” he said.

“For too long now, pets, horses, wildlife and farm animals have been deeply affected by the impact of fireworks and the lack of regulation – including from DIY and impromptu displays.

“Animals such as dogs and horses can suffer from tinnitus, hearing loss and long-term hearing damage caused by fireworks, while all animals can experience stress and fear – which has in some instances lead to injury and even death. Similarly, livestock and other animals living outdoors often try to escape the bangs out of fear, sometimes injuring themselves in the process, and the consequences can be devastating.”

The RSPCA is also a member of the coalition, and has long called for tighter restrictions on fireworks.

“We’ve known for some time that the public support restrictions; 66% of pet owners found backyard fireworks displayed to be a major concern, but regulation has lagged behind for too long, so this is a really positive step forward,” Mr Bowles said.

“This campaign has never been about spoiling people’s fun, but only ever about protecting animals, together – and this new UK Government consultation has the potential to be a game-changer for animals..

“We now have an amazing opportunity to give animals a voice by rallying all those who care about animals to respond to the consultation and show their support for these long-awaited restrictions, and a better world for every kind.”

Fireworks consultation is your chance to make change

British Horse Society safety team manager Des Payne told H&H the charity welcomes and supports the consultation; the BHS has also campaigned with other coalition members for years for changes to the law.

“Today’s announcement marks a significant moment and a huge step forward in making vital changes to support the needs of vulnerable people and animals,” he said.

“We know that fireworks can have a devastating impact on horses and other animals, causing fear, distress and, in some cases, serious injury or death. That’s why it is so important that members of the public, horse owners and everyone affected take the time to respond to the consultation. The more evidence and lived experiences that are shared, the stronger the case for meaningful change.

“While we are encouraged to see this issue being considered, we also recognise that there is still a long way to go. This consultation is just the beginning, and we will continue working with Government and partners to ensure the needs of horses and the wider equestrian community are properly recognised in future fireworks legislation.

“We encourage everyone to make their voice heard and help ensure this opportunity leads to lasting improvements for horse safety and welfare.”

Take part in the consultation

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Industry professionals have reported a rise in people offering treatments, with little or no qualifications. In January Defra held a consultation on reforms to the Veterinary Services Act that could include regulation and protection of titles for allied professionals, including musculoskeletal therapists (news, 5 Feb).

Vet Lorna Brokenshire-Dyke is a qualified veterinary physiotherapist and president of the National Association of Veterinary Physiotherapists (NAVP). Dr Brokenshire-Dyke told H&H that she had seen clients “bypass” their vet in favour of practitioners such as bodyworkers, massage therapists or physios, some of whom operate without appropriate training and qualifications.

“Practitioners with the right training and qualifications will recognise when there’s a problem and refer back to the vet – but without that foundation, a horse can end up being treated repeatedly without the underlying issue ever being properly addressed,” said Dr Brokenshire-Dyke.

“I’ve seen what happens when treatment isn’t underpinned by appropriate training and qualifications: conditions are missed, problems are masked, horses are pushed on when they should have been rested, all at the expense of the animal’s welfare.”

Dr Brokenshire-Dyke had a case where a horse had been seen by a musculoskeletal therapist for lameness on multiple occasions – and only months later when the horse did not improve was she consulted in a veterinary capacity.

“Ultimately the horse was in pain for months because the root problem wasn’t being addressed, but the owner was being reassured by the therapist that they were doing the right thing,” said Dr Brokenshire-Dyke.

“The owner’s bank account suffered, but more importantly the horse didn’t receive the right treatment at the right time.”

Dr Brokenshire-Dyke added that any therapist should be open to being asked about their qualifications and insurance and whether they are a member of an association such as NAVP, the Register of Animal Musculoskeletal Practitioners (RAMP) or the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy (ACPAT).

“As a veterinary physiotherapist, I understand exactly why that training and qualifications pathway has to be rigorous, not optional. It’s what gives a practitioner genuine professional standing, the knowledge, judgement and accountability that proper qualification actually represents,” said Dr Brokenshire-Dyke.

Veterinary physiotherapist Emma Green told H&H she has seen an increase in unqualified individuals advertising therapy services on social media.

“There’s been various different therapy machines used within the industry for years and they offer effective results – but we’re increasingly seeing unqualified people offering treatments, in cases where it’s not appropriate,” she said, adding she believes the industry is not regulated enough.

“It’s concerning. I don’t want to discredit anybody; there is a place for various therapy types within the industry, but if an owner wants a veterinary physiotherapist, they should visit a register where they know those on it are thoroughly checked. The main concern has got to be for the welfare of the horse”.

RAMP past president and chartered physiotherapist Jo Paul told H&H that by using someone on a professional register or member of an association, owners can be assured that person is qualified.

“RAMP is a voluntary register; it doesn’t mean that everybody who’s not a member isn’t qualified, but it does mean that we’ve done due diligence of who is on our register,” she said.

“Everybody is invested in doing the best for their horse, but owners need to take some responsibility.

“When somebody comes along with a new shiny machine or offering, owners need to consider whether the person providing that service has the anatomical, pathological and physiological knowledge to use the modality safely and effectively.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2026, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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But what is a miniature horse? Aren’t we just talking ponies here?

Is a miniature horse a pony?

Crucially, no. There’s a horse fact for you to break out at parties!

Miniature horses and ponies are two different classifications of equine – it’s all to do with conformation.

Hundreds of years of selective breeding give us the miniature horses we recognise today. Stand a miniature horse next to a pony of the same height, and you’ll soon see the difference.

In general, ponies have short, stocky legs and thicker necks. They usually have a wider barrel compared to horses and have proportionally shorter bodies, too.

In contrast, a miniature horse looks just like a scaled down sport or competition horse. They have proportionally longer bodies and legs, slender necks and elegant heads.

Can you ride miniature horses?

Miniature horse breeds are not commonly used for riding – only a very young child would be small and light enough to do so. They would still need to be backed, trained and selected for an appropriate career like a regular-sized horse.

Many minis are used in driving, showing, and agility, and are also bred as pets and used as therapy animals.

Miniature horse breeds

1. Falabella

Height: 24–28 inches

Weight: 50–80kg

Country of origin: Argentina

This tiny rare horse breed is the world’s smallest, and quite possibly the hardiest because they can withstand extreme temperatures and unforgiving landscapes.

Spanish horses brought to South America from the 16th century represent this breed’s origins. After some of them ended up getting loose and turning feral – even wild – they carved a path to some of the most hard-to-reach areas, such as isolated places outside Buenos Aires. Some of this equine population joined the indigenous Mapuche people.

How did the breed become so small? Generation upon generation was exposed to harsh climates, limited food and scarce water. The Falabella grew smaller and smaller to adapt to these conditions. And, because finding food and water was so tough, they became more intelligent over time in order to survive.

Falabellas were noticed by outsiders in 1845, when Irish settler Patrick Newell observed the remarkably small horses were kept alongside the Mapuche’s riding horses. He and his family took to keeping Falabellas and breeding them. His son-in-law, Juan Falabella, took up the mantle and gave the breed his name.

Juan brought Shetland pony and English thoroughbred blood into the breed to refine the Falabella into what we know today.

2. American Miniature

Height: Less than 34 inches

Weight: 68–136kg

Country of origin: USA

According to the American Miniature Horse Society, American Miniatures are the result of nearly 400 years of selective breeding, with the earliest record of a small horse arriving in the country from overseas appearing in 1888. However, mini horses didn’t land in the wider public consciousness until as late as 1960.

The breed is understood to have been cultivated from the blood of English and Dutch working horses, particularly those put to work in mines (no prizes for guessing why!). These horses arrived in the US in the 19th century and went into the Appalachian Mountains to mine.

There is some evidence that the Shetland pony was also introduced to help achieve the desired miniature stature.

3. Dutch Miniature

Height: 42 inches or less

Weight: 68–159kg

Country of origin: Netherlands

In Dutch, this tiny horse’s name is the Nederlands Minipaard.

With a studbook established in 1993, the original rules for registration with the breed society (Nederlandse Mini Paarden Registratie Stamboek) allowed any horse under 42 inches (106cm) to register. This allowed the inclusion of greater genetic diversity when establishing this miniature horse breed.

Today, foals hoping to enter the stud book must follow much more stringent criteria. This includes having registered parents.

The breed society hosts an annual summer show for all mini breeds in July. There are no ridden classes on the schedule, but participants compete in competitions like showing, jumping and driving.

• For unlimited access to advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Currently, some customers of Southern Water, South East Water and Cambridge Water are facing water usage restrictions. Anglian Water customers will also be under restriction from 1am Saturday, 11 July.

Affinity Water has also put a hosepipe ban in place across its Central area, which covers parts of Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Surrey and parts of London – this will come into effect on Friday, 17 July.

Other areas are not currently affected, but some water companies, such as Severn Trent, have asked customers to be mindful of their usage and issued guidance on how to reuse water where possible.

Hosepipe ban exemptions?

The good news is that while the rules outlaw the use of hosepipes for washing cars and watering gardens, the use of a hosepipe for the cleaning, maintenance and general wellbeing of any kind of animal is exempt from hosepipe ban rules.

The Government requires that the welfare of animals must be protected at all times, including during a hosepipe ban – or as it is more correctly called a Temporary Use Ban (TUB).

What is allowed during a hosepipe ban?

Examples of what is allowed under the TUB restrictions include:

• Washing horses down with a hosepipe
• Filling up water troughs and buckets with a hosepipe
• Cleaning out lorries, trailers and stables with a hosepipe

As long as you are genuinely using a hosepipe for the welfare of your horse and not abusing the interpretation of these rules, you should have no concerns. Responsible use of water is encouraged at the stables, as it is in your homes, to avoid putting added pressure on the supply during this period of high temperatures with little no rain forecast.

If you’d like further reassurance or information, you can contact your local water company for clarification.

• For unlimited access to advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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New data from the RSPCA’s Animal Kindness Index, the charity’s annual UK survey into public attitudes towards animals that includes the views of almost 7,000 people, found that 10% of pet owners are routinely using AI for advice and support in looking after their animals.

The RSPCA is concerned that increased reliance on “conversations” with AI could lead to complacency from owners and untreated illnesses in animals.

The most common reasons people seek help from AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini and Grok are symptom checking for ill pets (62%), advice on behaviour and body language (49%) and dietary tips (30%).

Gemma Hope, RSPCA assistant director of policy, advocacy and evidence, warned that this could spell “an inadvertent ticking time bomb”.

“Whether we like it or not, AI is a game changer – including for animal welfare,” she said. “And it can be one of many helpful tools responsible pet owners use to understand their animals, or to get tips on things like enrichment, play time ideas and more.

“But we’re worried that, with so many pet owners now using large language models to check the symptoms of poorly pets, or query behavioural challenges, this could be an inadvertent ticking time bomb for animal welfare.

“AI chat bots cannot physically examine an animal, check their bloods or understand the fast-moving changes that occur when a pet is in pain.

“However good or clever AI may seem, if someone is in doubt about their pet’s health or notices rapid changes, it’s vital to reach out to a vet immediately.”

Lucy Grieve, veterinary projects officer at the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA), told H&H artificial intelligence “can be a useful tool for accessing general information, but it cannot replace a veterinary examination”.

“Horses cannot tell us how they are feeling, and diagnosis often relies on physical assessment, diagnostic tests and professional clinical judgement. AI-generated advice may not always be accurate or recognise when an apparently minor problem is actually a sign of serious disease.

“We would encourage owners to seek advice from their veterinary practice whenever they have concerns about their horse’s health or welfare.

“Digital tools, including video consultations, can support veterinary care in some situations, but they work best when used as part of a professional veterinary service rather than as a substitute for it.”

CBBC presenter and small animal vet Rory Cowlam, who has backed the RSPCA’s call, highlighted that there is a “massive difference” between a vet using clinical AI tools to support an examination, and an owner using a chatbot to skip one entirely.

“AI can be a great tool for brainstorming general pet tips, like how to keep your pet entertained, or enrichment ideas. But when your animal is genuinely sick, a chatbot is not where you should be looking for advice. If in doubt, log out from AI and reach out to a professional,” he said.

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A veterinary review published in Veterinary Ophthalmology found that sight-threatening antibiotic-resistant eye infections are “becoming a significant threat to vision in dogs, cats, and horses”.

The research, conducted by Lionel Sebbag and Oren Pe’er of the Koret School of Veterinary Medicine at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, aimed to consider antibiotic resistance in veterinary ophthalmology, with a particular focus on bacterial corneal infections that can threaten vision within hours.

The team is calling for earlier diagnostic testing, more targeted antibiotic use, stronger infection-control measures and strategies to help preserve antibiotics for future patients.

“Antimicrobial resistance is no longer a theoretical concern in veterinary ophthalmology,” the authors note. “It is a clinically significant and evolving reality.”

Drs Sebbag and Pe’er told H&H horse owners may often think of antibiotic resistance as a problem in human medicine.

“But it’s increasingly becoming an equine one as well,” they said. “Every responsible antibiotic decision today helps preserve these sight-saving treatments for the horses that will need them tomorrow. For a horse, vision loss can be life-changing, so protecting the effectiveness of antibiotics isn’t just about combating resistance, it’s about safeguarding vision, welfare, performance and quality of life.”

Bacterial keratitis, a serious infection of the cornea, is among the most urgent emergencies in veterinary eye care. Antibiotics are still the “cornerstone of treatment” for the condition but the researchers found “mounting evidence that many of the bacteria responsible for these infections are becoming increasingly resistant to commonly used drugs”.

The researchers considered studies conducted across the world to identify Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, Beta-hemolytic streptococci and Pseudomonas aeruginosa as the most commonly isolated bacterial pathogens in companion animals.

Antibiotic resistance: common strains

“Particularly concerning is the rising prevalence of multidrug-resistant strains, especially in referral and speciality care settings where the most severe cases are concentrated,” the authors said.

“One of the most consistent findings across studies was the impact of previous antibiotic use. Animals that had recently received topical antimicrobial treatment were more likely to harbour resistant bacteria and less likely to yield positive culture results, making accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment more challenging.

“The review also highlights a surprising gap between laboratory testing and real-world clinical outcomes. Standard antimicrobial susceptibility tests are largely based on how antibiotics behave when administered systemically, yet eye drops achieve very different drug concentrations at the ocular surface. As a result, laboratory susceptibility reports may not always accurately predict whether a treatment will succeed or fail in clinical practice.”

The researchers said lab results should always be considered alongside vets’ clinical observations, the severity of the condition and the patient’s history. They said it is crucial to take microbiological samples when possible to help inform treatment decisions.

“Beyond the immediate clinical implications, the review places antibiotic-resistant eye infections within a broader one-health framework,” the researchers said.

“Some bacterial species commonly found in animal eye infections have recognised zoonotic potential; they can be transmitted between animals and humans. The authors note that veterinary clinics, equipment and even households can serve as environments where resistant organisms circulate, highlighting the importance of rigorous hygiene and infection-control practices.”

The review recommends treatment that avoids antibiotics, such as antiseptic and ultraviolet-based treatment.

Preserving the crucial drugs

“The goal is not simply to resolve the current infection,” the authors said, “but to preserve therapeutic reliability for future patients.”

H&H vet Karen Coumbe said horses are particularly prone to eye disease as their large eyes are exposed to dust, dirt and irritation from flies, especially in summer.

“Antibiotics should not be the first line of treatment for any sore eye, despite it being perceived by some as a quick fix,” she said. “Vets should examine a horse before prescribing antibiotic medication, including eye ointment and drops. Paradoxically some antibiotic eye ointments can still be bought over the counter without veterinary involvement.

“While I would not recommend over-the-counter eye antibiotics, it remains common practice and can certainly cause more serious problems in some cases. Eye disease should be taken seriously and consider other options instead of immediately trying antibiotics.

“Prevention is equally important; simple measures such as fly masks and avoiding haynets that allow debris to fall into the eyes help reduce the risk of disease.”

• For unlimited access to expert advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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A good trot-up gives the observer a clear view of the horse moving in a straight line and in balance, so their gait can be assessed.

Primarily, vets use trot-ups to check for soundness. Because the trot is an even gait, with legs moving in diagonal pairs, it’s easier to spot lameness or uneven loading of the limbs than in walk or canter.

When are horses trotted up for vets?

Vets might wish to see horses trotted up as part of:

• a lameness examination, in which further tests, such as flexion tests, lungeing and a ridden exam might also be carried out
• a pre-purchase examination, in which a vet is employed to assess the horse’s physically suitablity for a buyer
• an FEI competition of any discipline to check the horses are fit to compete. At three-day events, there are two horse inspections: one before the dressage phase, and another following the cross-country phase. Horses have to pass both to be allowed to compete

The holding box

At an FEI event, the ground jury and veterinary delegate will pass a horse following a trot up or send him to a holding box for further examination.

The vet in the holding box performs a more thorough examination, including palpation and assessment of the horse’s limbs, to help identify any injuries — such as tendon injuries — that would prevent him from continuing in the competition.

A horse who has sustained a small overreach injury during the cross-country, for example, or who has pulled a shoe off, may appear slightly unlevel. After veterinary assessment, however, he may be deemed fit to complete a round of showjumping.

Some horses are then represented at the trot-up, while others might withdraw from competition at the holding box.

Equipment to use to trot your horse up for the vet

Be ready to trot your horse up with:

• a well-fitting bridle, headcollar or halter
• stout, appropriate footwear, such as yard boots
• a riding hat
• riding gloves
• a schooling whip, if needed

How to trot up a horse for the vet

Before considering how to trot up a horse, first select your surface. It should be level and not too loose, slippery or stony.

• Stand your horse square. This allows the vet to walk around and examine the horse’s posture from every angle. Hold the reins in your right hand as if you were riding one-handed.
• Trot the horse away as straight as you can, keeping an even rhythm and ensuring he has enough rein to move his head freely so the vet can see any abnormalities. Your horse should be active, but not too fast.
• The vet may signal when they want you to turn and trot towards them, or if you’re unsure you can ask them to call out.
• Ask your horse for a walk transition a few steps prior to turning. When you turn, your horse should always turn away from you to avoid being trodden on. Guide the horse towards you slightly before asking him to turn away. This will enable you to trot back on the same line.
• Keep the horse straight towards the vet, but ensure you have sufficient control so as not to run them over.

It is worth clarifying whether the vet wants to see your horse walk first. If so, use the steps above in walk.

Furthermore, it is good to clarify how to trot up for the vet in particular. Some want to see the transition from trot to walk in front of them. You should make this transition very obvious.

If you have a young or inexperienced horse, practise the routine of trotting up so that when you need to do so you can produce a good, straight trot for your vet without any hassle. If you’re preparing to trot up at a competition, it’s worth you and your horse learning to trot correctly as a horse who is poorly presented may look uneven, even if he isn’t.

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On 29 June, MPs discussed the petition started by cleaner and social media influencer Bea Elton, which almost 240,000 people have signed since its launch on 12 March. For petitions to be considered for debate, they must reach 100,000 signatures in six months. 

Burton and Uttoxeter MP Jacob Collier said the number of people who had signed Ms Elton’s petition in just three months illustrated “the depth of feeling across our country” around animal abuse. 

“That feeling, together with the expert opinion of organisations such as the RSPCA, indicates that the current provisions against animal abuse are not adequate,” he said. 

But Mr Burton added that automatic lifetime bans for all who abuse animals “appears to be a disproportionate response” and a public register is “similarly unsuitable”. H&H reported concerns from equine welfare charities around a public register owing to the risk of “vigilante behaviour” (news, 4 June).

Cambourne and Redruth MP Perran Moon called on the Government to close the loophole whereby a banned owner can give animals to their spouse. 

Doncaster East and Isle of Axholme MP Lee Pitcher agreed, adding: “there is no place for legal loopholes like that in our country”. 

“The Government has referred to the police national computer and to existing arrangements for information sharing. I recognise that there are important safeguards around personal information and data protection that we must be aware of, but a record held somewhere in the system is not the same as a practical safeguarding tool that can stop a banned person acquiring another animal,” he said.

“That is the point behind the petition and it is a point that we should take very seriously.”

Newly appointed Defra minister Stephen Morgan said the Government published its animal welfare strategy for England in December, which includes “practical action to promote sensible, responsible pet ownership”. This strategy also includes plans for a consultation on licensing rescue and rehoming centres, which is still to be actioned. 

“That matters, because many welfare problems begin long before prosecution is brought. They can start with poor breeding, poor socialisation, lack of knowledge or owners unable to meet an animal’s needs,” he said. “By addressing those causes earlier, we can reduce the risk of animal suffering and reduce pressure on enforcement bodies later on.” 

He said courts have the power to impose lifetime bans where appropriate – and “it is right that they retain the discretion to do so”.

“Although we recognise the good intention behind the calls for a public register, the risks outweigh the benefits. Targeted disclosure remains the most effective approach. We are continuing to strengthen enforcement by supporting local authorities on how to use the tools available to them more effectively,” he said. 

Blue Cross head of public affairs Becky Thwaites told H&H the debate had “some interesting and useful contributions” – and the charity supports a national register searchable by enforcement agencies and charities.

“Issues around animal welfare are not debated as often as we would like at Westminster so this was a welcome opportunity for MPs to put their views to the Defra minister,” she said. “The one disappointment was the minister provided no timeframe for the consultations promised in the Government’s animal welfare strategy – we need more clarity on that.”

Ms Thwaites added that as the 2006 Animal Welfare Act reaches its 20th anniversary, it is the “right moment for a comprehensive review”. 

“This should include strengthening how disqualification orders are monitored and enforced, alongside serious consideration of introducing an animal offenders register,” she said. 

RSPCA head of public affairs David Bowles told H&H the number of signatures the petition has had “demonstrates how passionate people feel about justice for animals”.

“We know many equine owners will be among those urging the UK Government to act,” he said.

“Sadly, despite the animal welfare laws the RSPCA helped to put into place, cruelty still happens too often, and our inspectors and rescuers see firsthand the reality of this on a daily basis.”

Mr Bowles said establishing an animal abuse register is an “emotive issue”.

“Details of convictions and disqualification orders under the Animal Welfare Act are stored on the Police National Computer, but this is not open to non-police personnel to see for data protection purposes, and to avoid vigilante action,” he said.

“The current framework poses a significant challenge; even though courts can disqualify individuals from ownership, there is currently no central system for rescue centres, charities or private individuals, including breeders, pet shops, or animal care companies, to check whether someone is banned from keeping animals before selling or rehoming an animal, or employing someone to care for animals.

“That’s why the RSPCA is working with governments and other stakeholders for a transparent system that enables identification by appropriate authorities of those previously convicted of an animal offence.

“Gaps also extend to local authorities who grant licenses to animal businesses. While legislation already states that people convicted of animal cruelty are ineligible to run certain animal-related businesses – knowledge to enforce these rules is key.”

Mr Bowles added that resourcing for local authorities will “need to remain a discussion point”, and said many are ”already under pressure” enforcing legislation such as the Control of Horses Act.

“We must find a system that helps everyone ensure that disqualified abusers cannot bypass the law and own, get access to or work with animals – while respecting that information is only provided appropriately to selected enforcers, to prevent vigilante and other anti-social actions,” he said.

“Individuals banned from keeping animals by courts are often publicised in the media and the current legal framework highlights why it is important that anyone suspecting an individual to be breaching or evading any imposed bans should report this to the police or other relevant authorities.”

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Biosecurity and precautions are key, experts agree, as 274 cases had been recorded in 2026 by 23 June. The geographical spread covers Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and much of England.

Using data from the Surveillance of Equine Strangles (SES), strangles vaccination manufacturer Dechra calculated that if strangles continues to be diagnosed in line with current rates, there will be 600 cases confirmed in 2026, a rise of nearly a quarter from 2025.

Helen Whitelegg, campaign manager of Redwings, which runs the annual strangles awareness week, told H&H: “Redwings is concerned about the current increase in both equine flu and strangles and is grateful to the vital surveillance work carried out by [Equine Infections Disease Surveillance] EIDS to help us all identify and address these trends.

“It’s notable that of the 274 strangles cases recorded, just over a third of those horses were clinically ill. This reinforces how important it is to use good biosecurity and sensible precautions regardless of how healthy a horse looks.

“We know an infectious disease diagnosis can cause real anxiety in horse owners and yard managers. In addition to concern for the health of the affected horses, people often face restrictions in their daily lives and plans for the coming weeks and uncertainty over how long the outbreak will last and how much time, effort and cost will be involved.”

Ms Whitelegg stressed the BEST protocols: boost immunity by vaccinating, engage with trusted information, separate unfamiliar horses and temperature check as routine.

“We also want to acknowledge all the yards who communicate openly when disease strikes and who work as a team with their vet to tackle an outbreak responsibly to eliminate the disease and take action to protect themselves from future risk,” she said.

Vet Mary Battersby of Dechra added: “Equine flu and strangles spread rapidly and can bring the equine community to a standstill.

“Good biosecurity and preventative measures are essential to help tackle both diseases, particularly in light of owners traditionally being out and about more with their horses over the summer.”

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H&H reported that the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act, which came into force this year, gave police more powers to deal with – and the option of more serious punishments – for livestock worrying, and that this includes horses.

But some in the industry had concerns that it did not go far enough. And Defra has now confirmed that although the law covers horses on roads and paths to be moved between fields, this “does not extend to ridden horses”, on or off the road.

Victoria Privett, co-founder of the Leash & Release campaign that aims to educate dog owners and protect other people and animals from dog attacks, told H&H she and co-founder Katie Smart contacted Defra last autumn.

“They’ve now come back to say the protection given by the act doesn’t automatically apply to ridden horses in public spaces,” she said.

“We’re very grateful to Defra for clarifying but my fear was that horses would fall through the gaps again, and we have. The most vulnerable time for horses and riders is when they’re riding in public.”

Ms Smart and Ms Privett said that, as it has to H&H, Defra has referred to the Dangerous Dogs Act as another law under which horses may be protected. But the relevant section of this law says it is an offence if an out-of-control dog “injures any person or assistance dog”, with no mention of horses or any other animal.

Leash & Release is now targeting an update of this law as the next step.

Dog attacks: ridden horses and other animals need protection

“We need a petition to amend this section to cover horses and all pets, including other dogs,” Ms Privett said. “People have contacted us as their dogs have been attacked, and they’re not covered either. There are lots of loopholes, and places where the police aren’t even clear.”

This petition, and a call to contact MPs, will not be started until the country’s governance is clear; the campaigners will wait until the next prime minister is in place with no chance of an imminent general election, as these mean all petitions are closed.

“Then we’ll do that, because we know the community will support us,” Ms Privett said. “Not just the equestrian community, the dog community, the pet owners, and hopefully we can get more of an aligned response.”

Solicitor Hannah Bradley, of Aria Grace Law, told H&H that although the act refers to horses, “it is clear they fall awkwardly in that they are often not farmed livestock in the traditional sense, and they are used more often for leisure purposes”.

“The frequency with which horses and their owners suffer from dog attacks, and the difficult emotional and financial circumstances caused by them, warrant serious consideration to creating a clearer route to prosecution, and by virtue a deterrent,” she said. “Whilst owners may still have a prospective civil claim to pursue any financial losses, it may be difficult and expensive, and there would be no guarantee of success, or recovery of any damages awarded.”

British Horse Society (BHS) safety team manager Des Payne told H&H anyone involved in a dog-related riding incident should contact a legal expert; the BHS has a free legal support helpline accessible to some members.

“We would always seek clarity when dealing with these awful situations, as our laws aren’t simple to navigate and there can be many different circumstances to consider,” he said. “Our understanding is that the Crown Prosecution Service will assess whether to proceed with prosecution under section 3 of the 1991 act or other relevant legislation on a case-by-case basis. As ever, we will continue to lobby Government to ensure the interests of horses, horse riders and carriage drivers are at the forefront of any legislative change.”

A Defra spokesperson confirmed Mr Payne’s understanding on the 1991 act, adding that the Government takes dog attacks very seriously.

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The Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance (EIDS) team has “strongly” encouraged vets and owners to provide permission for anonymous reporting in its latest update (25 June).

“Every outbreak reported strengthens our understanding of the disease situation and improves the information available to the industry to protect the equine population, help limit further spread and ideally bring this outbreak to a close as quickly as possible,” said an EIDS spokesperson.

EIDS has received reports of 116 laboratory-confirmed outbreaks across 53 counties since 1 April. But the latest update said that “the most significant challenge” in assessing the situation is the “growing number of confirmed cases that cannot be included in national reporting”.

“EIDS is aware of a further 50 laboratory-confirmed outbreaks for which outbreak details and/or permission for anonymous reporting have not been received. This means that while 116 outbreaks are currently included in national updates, EIDS is aware of 166 confirmed outbreaks since April,” said the spokesperson.

“In other words, nearly one third of all confirmed outbreaks known to EIDS are currently absent from published reports.

“The consequences extend far beyond outbreak numbers. Without permission to include these outbreaks in our analyses, information on vaccination status, horse movements, links between outbreaks and geographical spread is lost. These data are an invaluable component of outbreak surveillance, helping to identify risk factors, track patterns of spread and provide evidence-based epidemiological advice to the wider industry.”

EIDS analysis of reported outbreaks highlights recent travel and lack of vaccination as the two most consistent features. Of the 116 outbreaks, 76 (66%) involved horses who had travelled before they were diagnosed, and 73 of 116 (63%) involved horses who were unvaccinated or whose vaccinations had lapsed. Only 10% of outbreaks involve vaccinated horses.

“The increasing geographical distribution of outbreaks suggests that movement-associated transmission continues to introduce infection into previously unaffected areas. Continued vigilance, prompt investigation of suspected cases and robust biosecurity measures remain essential, particularly during periods of increased horse movement and mixing,” said the spokesperson.

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) commended the way in which a positive case in a vaccinated thoroughbred was handled last month and is urging “continued vigilance” by those working in the industry.

A horse arrived on 12 June at a yard adjacent to Mel and Phil Rowley’s licensed premises in Shropshire from the Goffs Arkle Sale in Kildare. When the infected horse arrived at the isolation yard, he was not showing any clinical signs of the virus – these developed the following evening and were confirmed by testing. He was kept in isolation, and no horses were allowed to enter or leave that yard or the licensed premises.

The BHA worked with transporters to identify other horses who travelled to Britain with the infected horse and targeted action on a case-by-case basis, depending on the level of risk. This included PCR testing and some runners being withdrawn.

Restrictions on the Rowleys’ operation have been lifted and the BHA has stressed that their proactive approach “has helped avoid what could potentially have been a much bigger and less manageable outbreak”.

Equine flu: New Forest situation

The disease is also running through the New Forest.

A spokesperson for the verderers of the New Forest told H&H the infection started in the north of the forest at Woodgreen, where the animals now appear to have recovered.

“It has steadily spread to an ever-widening area, now moving south and has reached Burley in approximately the middle of the forest. There is no reason to suppose that it won’t cover the entire area eventually,” said the spokesperson. “Veterinary advice is to leave the ponies to deal with it in their natural environment except in extreme cases. We remind riders on the open forest to stay away from forest stock, and that the infection is windblown to some considerable distance.”

Vet Alan Hough, of Celtic Equine Vets on the edge of the New Forest, told H&H on Friday (26 June) that around 10 ponies in the forest have been found dead who “were noted to have strong flu symptoms shortly before death, so the presumption is the flu did result in their death”.

He added that the vets have not been able to sample these animals yet for that to be conclusive, but are in discussion with the verderers and EIDS.

He noted that the last outbreak in the New Forest herd was 30 years ago, so the ponies have no or low immunity, and the way they live means veterinary treatments available to domestic horses are not feasible.

Mr Hough stressed this is not a case of their owners’ being at fault; rather vaccination schedules are unworkable and also chasing a sick animal into a corral with others when he is unwell is not good for his welfare or those around him.

He said that wider vaccination of the UK herd as a whole is key and encouraged governing bodies to work together and agree on six-monthly vaccinations, adding: “I think if that becomes the norm, you will have a critical number of people who have to have six-monthly, which will help drive up this level of herd immunity. Nationally we suspect only about 40% of the equine herd are vaccinated, and we need to get that nearer 75 to 80%, to try to prevent these sort of national outbreaks.

“We’ll still always have outbreaks, but they’d be very localised, just one or two horses affected. They won’t be on the scale we’re seeing at the moment.”

Equine flu: how does reporting work?

• Vet practices can report outbreaks directly through the EIDS disease reporting platform by ticking a box to confirm they have consent. Once confirmed, EIDS will circulate an International Collating Centre (ICC) report and request a TellTail text alert.
• Vet practices can also submit nasopharyngeal swabs from potential cases for complementary laboratory testing (funded by the Horserace Betting Levy Board). If a case returns a positive result under this scheme, EIDS are permitted to report it.
• Vet practices are able to sign up to these schemes by visiting: www.equinesurveillance.org

Read the latest EIDS update (25 June)

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All over the world lie elusive and rare breeds that you should definitely know about, many of which are British native breeds. Organisations such as the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) and individual breed societies oversee populations and campaign for the breeds’ conservation.

Here, we bring you a selection of rare horse breeds from across the globe, and some interesting facts about them…

Rare British horse breeds

1. The Dales pony

• Height: 14hh–14.2hh
• Colour(s): black, brown, grey, bay and roan
• Place of origin: the Pennines region
• RBST status: Priority breed

The Dales pony is native to the upper dales of the eastern slopes of the Pennine range, from the High Peak in Derbyshire to the Cheviot Hills near the Scottish Border.

The breed originates from the crossing of Scotch Galloways used for pack work in the 17th Century, and native mares. According to the Dales Pony Society: “it was that the black Galloways of the mixed herds eventually superseded the Scotch Galloway, and eventually became the Dales Pony through a series of improvements from several sources.”

Bloodlines from the now extinct regional trotter (or roadster) breeds also helped develop the Dales pony we know and love today.

According to the Dales Pony Society: “the combination of strength, agility, thrift, hardiness and high courage, with good conformation and a calm, intelligent nature, makes the Dales Pony a first-class riding and driving pony with all the abilities of a true all-rounder.”

2. The Cleveland Bay

• Height: 16hh–16.2hh
• Colour(s): traditionally bay with black points, with a small white star the only permitted white marking
• Place of origin: the Cleveland Hills, Yorkshire
• RBST status: Priority breed

The Cleveland Bay horse can be traced back to the Chapman horse of the 17th century. According to the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, it is the oldest established native British breed.

In former times, the only acceptable colour was solid bay in colour with no white with the possible exception of a very small star. Nowadays, horses with white hairs exceeding this breed standard can still be registered to protect their genetic value to the breed. However, their passport/studbook will note the deviation.

Initially bred in the Cleveland Hills, farmers used Cleveland Bays on the land, for riding and as pack animals.

The Cleveland Bay Horse Society acts as guardian of the breed. Formed in 1884 to preserve and promote the breed, it continues its role today.

The Royal family have given the breed a great boost. The late Queen’s grandfather had been a breeder of Cleveland bays in the 1920’s, and The late Queen purchased a Cleveland Bay colt named Mulgrave Supreme. They have been known to pull Royal carriages.

3. The Exmoor pony

• Height: 12hh–13.2hh
• Colour(s): bay, brown or black, typically with pale points (mealy markings) on the face, especially around the eyes, flanks and inside the legs
• Place of origin: Exmoor, Devon
• RBST status: Priority breed

Ponies have been on Exmoor since ancient times, and this environment shaped their size, characteristic hardiness, independent spirit and native intelligence. Many consider Exmoor ponies one of the country’s oldest pony breeds, roaming the land for approximately the last 5,000 years.

In 1818, the crown sold the Royal Forest of Exmoor to industrialist John Knight. The outgoing Warden, Sir Thomas Acland, took 30 of the ponies and founded the Acland herd (now known as the Anchor herd) running on Winsford Hill. Farmers from Withypool and Hawkridge, who had worked for the warden, also bought stock at the dispersal sale and founded several herds which still exist.

Although some breed Exmoor ponies on studs throughout the country, herds of semi-feral free-ranging ponies still run on the moor.

The late 1940s nearly saw the demise of the Exmoor pony.

Today, while still a rare breed, they are a popular riding pony for children and small adults.

4. The Eriskay pony

• Height: 12hh–13.2hh
• Colour(s): grey, occasionally black or bay
• Place of origin: Eriskay, Outer Hebrides
• RBST status: Priority breed

The Eriskay pony is among the last surviving remnants of the original native ponies of the Western Isles of Scotland.

Essential to the crofting community, this breed was instrumental in the retrieval of seaweed and peat for fertiliser and fires. People also used them for transport and all kinds of farm work.

Unfortunately, like many rare horse breeds, the Eriskay declined in the 19th century due to the advent of farm machinery. By the early 1970s, there were only 20 pure-breds on the remote island of Eriskay, so a dedicated group of people got together in an attempt to increase numbers. The Eriskay Pony Society was founded in 1995.

According to the breed society, there are around 420 Eriskays left in the world.

5. The Suffolk Horse

• Height: 16.1hh–17.2hh
• Colour(s): chestnut, from dark liver to light red
• Place of origin: Suffolk, England
• RBST status: Priority breed

The Suffolk horse is the oldest breed of heavy horse to exist in its present form. They are also known as the Suffolk Punch. In local Suffolk dialect, their chestnut colour is called ‘chesnut’ without the ‘t’.

The earliest stud book of any heavy horse breed, and all modern Suffolks, are descended from just one horse, Crisp’s Horse of Ufford, which was born in 1768.

During the First World War, the strong horse was a popular working animal. Consequently, there were 1000s of Suffolks residing throughout East Anglia. They were known for their ability to be used for draught work and forestry

The rare breed declined rapidly when farmers swapped horses for tractors and machinery, and in 1966 there were only nine Suffolk foals registered.

Today, they are a popular cross to produce heavy sports and show horses, and they are being increasingly seen in ridden heavy horse classes.

6. The Hackney

• Height: 12.2hh–14hh (pony), 14hh–16.2hh (horse)
• Colour(s): solid colours, such as black, bay and chestnut, with white markings
• Place of origin: Norfolk and Suffolk
• RBST status: Priority breed

The Hackney had its origins in the Norfolk and Yorkshire Roadsters (trotting horses) of the 18th and 19th centuries, but is first mentioned in medieval times.

Early thoroughbred stallions had a great influence on the breed. According to the RBST: “Following improvements in the roads during the 16th and 17th century there was an increased demand for carriage horses and the highest status symbol was to be seen out in a stylish equipage with proud high-stepping horses.”

Known to trot at high speed for extended periods, these slender, muscular and elegant animals were perfect for the job. In 1883, the Hackney Horse Society and Stud Book was formed.

The signature high-stepping action characterises both the horse and pony versions of the breed. Efforts to preserve the breed include highlighting its versatility as a driving, riding and show horse.

Rare horse breeds from around the world

7. The Sorraia

• Height: 13.3hh–14.4hh
• Colour(s): dun of all kinds with primitive markings
• Place of origin: Portugal

Sorraia horses are a remnant population of an indigenous, South Iberian wild horse, which survived in the formerly inaccessible lowlands of the river Sorraia in Portugal until the early 1900s.

The Iberian scientist and horse expert Dr Ruy d’Andrade discovered these horses in 1920 and is responsible for their preservation.

Occasionally, locals caught the horses to train for herding and farming. However, the population is largely feral.

Today, there are only 200–300 Sorraias. Private owners hold most of this population.

All Sorraias descend from only 11 or 12 animals that d’Andrade secured in the 1930s, and in-breeding is therefore incredibly high.

8. The American Cream Draft Horse

• Height: 13.5hh–16.3hh
• Colour(s): pale cream to gold with a white mane and tail
• Place of origin: Iowa, US

The American Cream Draft is a relatively new breed and is the only draft breed to have originated in the United States. Varying reports say there are between 250 and 400 in the world.

Many believe that the Cream traces its roots back to a draft-type mare named Old Granny. She is believed to have been foaled around the turn of the last century in Iowa and was cream in colour.

Gaining popularity in the 1930s, an owner called Clarence T Rieson was especially proactive in breeding Creams. Sadly, they became popular just as mechanisation began making working horses obsolete.

The American Cream Draft Horse was recommended for recognition by the National Stallion Enrolment Board in 1948. In 1950 they were recognised as standard by the Iowa Board of Agriculture.

9. The Curly Horse (American Bashkir Curly Horse)

• Height: 14hh–16hh
• Colour(s): any
• Place of origin: Nevada, US

While there is no real limit to a Curly Horse’s size, colour and type, all carry a gene for a unique curly coat of hair.

Curlies are claimed to be the only hypoallergenic horse breed. They originated in North America with less than 1000 in the world today. Some say that a man named Peter Damele discovered them at the turn of the 20th century. He spotted curly-coated horses while riding out in the Nevada desert.

The American Bashkir Curly Registry, the first breed registry, formed in 1971.

Most of today’s curly horses have ancestry to one or more of the three stallions Copper D, Curly Jim or Eli Bad Warrior’s sire (name unknown).

The British Curly Horse and Pony society was founded in 2010.

10. The Marwari Horse

• Height: 14hh–15.1hh
• Colour(s): any
• Place of origin: Marwari (Jodhpur)

The Marwari Horse descends from the mounts of the Rajput warriors. A slender, elegant horse, it is recognisable for its inward-turned ear tips, which sometimes touch. With their lineage traced back to Arabian and Mongolian horses, this detail could link them to the Kathiawari horse.

The breed sadly fell out of favour with British colonisers, who preferred the thoroughbred.

Because the breed was rare and faced extinction, an export ban was placed in the 1930s and no Marwari horses were able to leave India. In 2000, Francesca Kelly in the United States received the first shipment of six horses.

Today, the breed is still rare with fewer than 5,000 purebred horses in the entire world.

11. German Black Forest Horse

• Height: 14.2hh–16hh
• Colour(s): chestnut (any shade) with a flaxen mane and tail
• Place of origin: The Black Forest, southern Germany

This striking, cold-blooded, light draft horse originates from the Black Forest of southern Germany, where breeding dates back to the 15th century. The records of the Abbey of Saint Peter in the Black Forest.

A versatile breed, they were originally used for farm work and forestry. Today, many people ride and drive them.

The rare German Black Forest Horse has many names. These include Schwarzwälder Füchs, Schwarzwälder Kaltblut, Wälder Horse, and Saint Märgener.

As of 2017, it was recorded that there was a population of 88 stallions and 1,077 mares, and one of the key breeding programmes is at the Marbuch Stud horse farm in Germany.

12. The Canadian Horse

• Height: 14hh–16hh
• Colour(s): most commonly black, but other colours appear
• Place of origin: Quebec, Canada

The Canadian Horse became the country’s national horse in 2002 and is registered as ‘at risk’ by Heritage Livestock Canada due to dwindling numbers. There are around 6,000 animals globally.

Canadian horses descend from a load of Spanish, Norman and Breton-bred horses sent to Canada in 1665 by King Louis XIV to his subjects in New France. From those foundation horses, a distinct breed of horse emerged, and became known as ‘Le Petit Cheval de Fer’ or ‘The Little Iron Horse’.

The Canadian Horse Breeders Association says the breed is known for “its calm and willing disposition, excellent feet, stamina and strength”. Additionally, the breed is understood to have influenced the Morgan horse.

13. The Caspian Horse

• Height: 10hh–12hh
• Colour(s): any solid colour
• Place of origin: ancient Persia (modern day Iran)

Caspian horses average only 11.2hh but despite their height, they considered horses rather than ponies due to their conformation.

The rare horse breed dates back to ancient Persia, at least as far as 3,000 B.C. Experts now believe the Caspian to be the forerunner to the Arab horse and therefore to most of the hot-blooded horses in existence today.

Caspians have spectacular action as well as speed. The breed underwent a resurgence when native Virginian Louise Firouz and her Iranian husband Narcy began a breeding programme, hearing the Caspian was an ideal horse for children.

In the 1970s, the late Prince Philip received a breeding pair of Caspians and conservation developed in the UK. There are fewer than 500 in Britain, and around 2,000 worldwide.

14. The Newfoundland Pony

• Height: 11–14hh
• Colour(s): bay, black, brown, chestnut, dun, grey, roan and white only
• Place of origin: Newfoundland, Canada

According to the Newfoundland Pony Society: “The Newfoundland Pony is known for its strength, courage, intelligence, obedience, and common sense.”

During the later part of the 20th century, the estimated population of 12,000 (1970s) dropped to fewer than 100 in the 1980s.

In 1997, the provincial government of Newfoundland passed the Heritage Animals Act of Newfoundland and Labrador. This Act provided legal protection to the Newfoundland Pony by making it illegal to transport Newfoundland Ponies off the Island without export permits. The Act also designated the Newfoundland Pony Society as the public group responsible for registering, promoting and protecting the Newfoundland Pony.

Truly one of the most rare horse breeds, there are an estimated 500–600 animals in Canada and the US.

15. Akhal-Teke

• Height: 14.2hh–16hh
• Colour(s): any colour with a metallic sheen, but frequently palamino, cremello and perlino with pale eyes
• Place of origin: Karakum desert, Turkmenistan

Developed for endurance and speed, the Akhal-Teke is one of the oldest domesticated horse breeds, with links as far back as a 6th-century Siberian burial site. Here, archaeologists discovered equine remains similar to the Akhal-Teke. According to legend, Macedonian King Alexander the Great once rode them.

In 1881, Turkmenistan became a part of the Russian Empire and the first official breeding farms of Akhal-Tekes were established. Numbers declined due to the turmoil that marked the early days of Soviet Russia.

The breed came to the United States in 1972. In the same year, the breed registry began with the founding of the Akhal-Teke Association of America.

This rare horse breed possesses great athletic ability and crossing with thoroughbreds and sport horses is common. There are an estimated 6,600 in the world.

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Heat is a major by-product of energy production and muscle function during exercise, with the amount of heat generated increasing in line with the intensity of a horse’s work. Therefore, cooling after the exertion of competition is extra important. But why?

The best way to cool horses can save lives

During exercise, a horse only uses a small proportion of stored energy to work his muscles. The rest is lost as heat through the metabolism of the stored energy. This causes heat build-up in the body, so controlling that body temperature, i.e. cooling the horse, is essential to avoid heat exhaustion.

A horse’s normal core body temperature at rest should be between 37.5°C and 38.5°C. When this rises to a dangerous level above 41°C to 42°C, you will see side effects and signs of heat exhaustion. These can range from excessively high heart and respiratory rates to dehydration, fatigue and poor recovery from exercise.

If left untreated, heat exhaustion can develop into heatstroke — a condition in which the body is unable to regulate its own temperature. This can ultimately lead to multi-organ dysfunction, including kidney and liver failure, abnormal heart rhythm, loss of coordination and, in severe cases, death.

The power of evaporation

Evaporative cooling — losing heat through the skin by sweating — is the most important way a horse controls his body temperature during and after exercise. Water from sweat evaporates into the air, taking heat energy with it.

Additionally, about 30% of heat loss occurs through the lungs and respiratory tract during normal breathing.

These methods of heat loss are at their most efficient when the difference between the skin temperature and the surrounding air temperature is greatest, such as in cool, dry weather.

Cooling by sweat evaporation is less effective in hot and humid conditions, because the surrounding air is already saturated with water. That means the difference between air and skin temperature is minimal, so evaporation is much less effective.

Sweat starts to drip from the body but removes just 5-10% of the heat that would have been lost through evaporation.

Should you scrape a horse off after hosing?

While scraping water off a warm horse will do him no harm, it will slow the cooling process in a dangerously hot horse. Therefore, the best way to cool horses at the end of intense exercise or competition is to apply copious amounts of cold water over his whole body, without scraping it off.

But how does this work?

Research has shown that applying cold water (9°C) to a horse after exercise in hot, humid conditions helps bring core body temperature back down to normal faster than using tepid (31°C) water. Cold water has no negative effect, such as increasing the risk of tying-up.

How to explain the scraping myth? Water is a good conductor of heat, which is why cold water on a hot horse heats up – the horse is losing body heat to the water. Some owners might infer this means that the hot water is insulating the horse, but this isn’t true.

Then, the horse is cooled further as the water evaporates, because evaporation cools the surface the water is sitting on.

Along with a team of researchers, Dr David Marlin undertook extensive study in this area leading up to the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games.

He says: “When faced with a horse that is moderately to dangerously hot after exercise or a horse that isn’t coping in hot weather even at rest, the most effective and safe way to cool is to apply water all over the body.

“Any water cooler than the horse – ideally less than 25°C – will work. The cooler the water the better and quicker the horse will cool down. The best indicator of body temperature and how effective your cooling is, is actually the horse’s breathing rate and how hot they feel to touch.

“Don’t concentrate on specific areas of the body – just apply water continuously either with buckets or a hose from the neck to the tail. Don’t scrape as this wastes time better served applying more cool or cold water and actually results in the surface warming up.”

How to keep competition horses cool

In addition to continuous cooling by applying cold water without scraping, other good ways to keep horses cool include:

• keeping them in shade as much as possible
• using a misting fan – you’ll find these most often at elite events
• ensuring they appropriately fit – fitness and acclimatisation to local weather conditions are additional key factors in avoiding heat stress
• maintaining a healthy weight and body condition score – an overweight horse will struggle more
• helping with electrolytes – electrolyte supplements help to keep your horse hydrated, and a hydrated horse can cool regulate their temperature better
• using ice boots to cool legs – some evidence states cold therapy has a positive effect on tissue metabolism and enzyme activity when skin temperature is reduced to 10°C or when joints are reduced to 30°C. However, ice must be applied thoughtfully and at reasonable intervals to avoid freezer burn

How to tell if a horse has heatstroke

Ambient temperature and humidity levels in the UK rarely reach those of more tropical climates. However, signs of heat exhaustion are not uncommon in horses competing here in the summer — particularly if the weather suddenly becomes hotter.

Signs of heat exhaustion include:

• prolonged and delayed recovery (beyond 10 to 20 minutes after the end of the competition)
• persistently elevated heart and breathing rates
• continued, excessive sweating
• shaking
• weakness
• loss of awareness of surroundings

Ongoing increases in rectal temperature after the end of exercise are a strong indicator of heat stress and the potential to develop heat stroke.

In its most severe form, this can leave a horse unable to sweat, reluctant to drink water or to walk. It can cause staggering, depression and collapse – even death.

Urgent cooling and appropriate veterinary treatment, including intravenous fluids in some cases, is vital.

Correction: 29 June, 2026

This article was first published on 25 June 2026 and it contained an error that stated Dr David Marlin had published a study showing that cold hosing the legs of leisure horses resulted in reducing the subjects’ temperatures. The study was not published by Dr Marlin and he does not endorse this as a cooling method. His position is that effective cooling involves applying cool of cold water over the horse’s entire body, without scraping the water away between applications.

• For unlimited access to advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Equine chiropractor Jess Harkness organised the Beyond the Bridle event, an afternoon of displays followed by an evening performance, at the Unicorn Equestrian Centre in Gloucestershire on 13 June.

The event was a sellout, and Jess told H&H the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, including an email from a non-horsey dad, dragged by his daughter to major equestrian events but said “this was the best”, paying tribute to the “fascinating and engaging” demos and the horsemanship displayed.

The presenters included Jess, British Bridleless Competition organiser Mia Rodley and natural horsemanship experts Lynn Henry and Jodi Bament, as well as trick rider Eve Bea and horsemanship instructor Sarah Stone. They were joined by Jess’s 15-year-old daughter Thea, who has been competing bridleless in showjumping, and Thea’s 16-year-old friend Bella Forster.

“Thea’s got loads of online followers and a lot of kids say they don’t know how to get started,” Jess said. “A lot of demos are professionals doing it, and it looks amazing but it almost looks out of reach. So the professional world came in and did a bit of what advanced looks like, where you’re aiming for, then we brought a pupil in who was just starting the journey, and showed what the start looks like too.”

The evening show had an Alice in Wonderland theme, with all the costumes, lights and effects.

“I wanted something a bit theatrical,” Jess said. “It’s not a circus, but I wanted to make it a story, make it magical, and make the kids go away thinking ‘This is really magic’, but also ‘It’s something I could do’.”

Jess said the Beyond the Bridle performance also demonstrated to the crowds that bridleless riding is almost a by-product, of the training, the relationship-building and time that has to go into the horse-human partnership to make it possible.

“You don’t have to do that all the time,” Jess added. “Sometimes I ride with a bit, sometimes in a bitless bridle, sometimes in a halter, sometimes bridleless, depending on the situation or what I want to work on. It’s not one or the other, and that was the other thing we wanted to get across.

“You can do this and develop your relationship with your horse, whether it’s liberty work, groundwork, and still go out and compete in eventing or showjumping, or whatever it is, with a bridle on. It’s only going to improve your relationship with the horse which then makes other things easier for you. It’s not either/or.”

Jess added that everything was arranged with the caveat that if any horse or pony was uncomfortable at any point, there would be an immediate cut-off, but there were no issues, again indicating the quality of the training and relationship.

“It’s about setting them up for success, rather than throwing them in the deep end and saying ‘See if you can swim’,” she said.

“And the horse has a say in it; you have to listen to the horse and if he’s not ready to do it, don’t do it.”

Beyond the Bridle: the younger generation

Jess also cited the fact that although among some older equestrians, she feels she may have to justify or explain her choices, the younger generation showing such interest in another way is different.

“They just want other people to understand how important it is to have a kind, empathetic relationship with your horse,” she said. “I think there’s loads more awareness and openness to it now.

“Wiith anything in the horse world, it can take a while, but I think the bridleless competition was brilliant for reaching a wider audience. I can definitely feel there’s a desire for change in terms of horse welfare and a desire to do things better. Certainly the younger generation seem to be really strongly up for it. I’m hopeful.”

Jess is hoping to run another such event in future, and it is hoped another British Bridleless Competition will run this year.

Next month, Wellington Equestrian Centre is hosting a horsemanship masterclass (11-12 July), featuring demos from international showjumpers and brideless riders Brendan Wise and Serena Kullich, liberty specialists Kaleigh Marie and Will Rogers and Mia Rodley.

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Without further ado, here are some of the summer horse care hacks I recommend to guarantee a smoother season. The best part? Some of the bits and pieces I’ve picked out to help you through summer also have discounts as part of Amazon Prime Day, which ends today (26 June).

Summer horse care hacks and tips you need to try

1. Flies, begone!

Don’t worry, I’m not about to tell you to use fly spray – you definitely already know that! But flies don’t just annoy horses, they annoy us too. Therefore, you also deserve insect repellent!

As well as for hacking, I used this Jungle Formula on a trip to India a while back and don’t recall getting bitten at all, so it’s decent stuff.

While you’re at it, why not pick up a magnetic fly curtain to keep winged pests out of your tack room? I have a set that I use to keep bugs out of my home – being able to keep the door open in the evening without stressing about moths and other flies is genuinely amazing.

2. Make aircon a reality

Whether for your tack room or for use at home, a portable air conditioning unit is a must when heatwaves land – and you just know the next one isn’t far away.

I bought this Delonghi compact air conditioner last year and honestly haven’t looked back. I no longer fear a heatwave and get plenty of sleep to be on my A game for my horse. My miniature schnauzer also absolutely loves it, so if you have a lorry dog who needs a cooldown, I would highly recommend.

Portable air cons are a bit of an investment, but I promise your comfort is completely worth it. Or, if you’re not quite ready to commit to several hundreds of pounds, a tower fan (like this one) will certainly tide you over.

3. No more heavy hauling

Have you seen these fold-away carts around and about? Some people load their kids into them, others will trundle a picnic to the park, but I say: these babies belong on the yard.

Pile them with haynets, take them to shows, or finally make it from the tack room or feed room to your horse in the elusive single trip with feed, hay, tack and rugs all safely ensconced within.

4. Cue the music

Long summer days are begging to be spent at the yard. Personally, I love poo-picking as a summer activity, and taking a bluetooth speaker (I have this one) can crank up the good times.

Worried about phone battery? Pack yourself a power bank (like this one) for peace of mind.

5. Get savvy with storage

Winter rugs clogging your tack room? And, at home, are you sick of the sight of your long riding coats and waterproof breeches?

Use these vacuum compaction bags to store them without taking up space. You’re welcome!

Need something to store your rugs in? Check out this massive plastic storage chest.

6. Happy hosing

A hosepipe without an attachment is awkward to use – using your finger over the end only goes so far. Instead, try this hose attachment with loads of settings to cool your horse.

Not only that, there’s a reservoir for your pick of the best horse shampoo that will make bathing your horse easier than ever.

7. I’m a “fan” of this one…

Airflow in the stable is the thing to help keep your horse cool while he’s in. What’s more, a gentle breeze can also disrupt midge flightpaths, meaning they leave your horse alone.

You’ll want a portable fan (like this one) to help achieve this. They can be hung or stood on the floor and many have great battery life, so you don’t need to worry about having any power.

Want to cool down on the go? I just discovered this Shark Chill Pill hi-speed personal misting fan – I can see it being a hit at summer shows like the Royal International. If you want something at a cheaper price point, this personal fan is in the Prime Day sale.

8. Slip, slap, slop

Sun protection is an essential summer horse care hack, but it’s super important for humans, too. I always take suncream with me to the yard on summer days for top-ups, especially to my face.

This viral sun cream is currently in the Prime Day sale and one of my faves.

• For unlimited access to the latest product news, buying guides and reviews, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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In a study published in Animals, researchers from the University of Nottingham, with support from the British Horse Society, aimed to understand owner-reported causes, management and outcomes of equine wounds. The work gathered data to expand on existing wound evidence, which has predominantly been expert reviews or referral hospital studies.

Owners submitted information for 219 horses with injuries. The most common reason for wounds was wire/fencing injuries and the most common place was the lower half of the hindlegs. Owners gave first aid in just over two-thirds of cases and three-quarters of horses needed veterinary attention – but owners were not always confident in deciding whether the wound needed the vet.

The study highlights “several areas where information and resources could support behaviour change in owners and improve wound outcomes”, including on planning for emergencies and the need for guidance on when to call the vet and giving first aid.

Co-author Sarah Freeman told H&H the most common emergency vets get called to, after colic, is wounds.

“Vets see one perspective, but there’s an awful lot that owners see and vets don’t – so this gives us a different picture of what’s going on in the horse population,” she said, adding that there is further work taking place on wounds due out later this year.

“Some of the findings weren’t surprising, like the most common place for wounds – but it was interesting to understand the things that owners are commonly doing. We can look at whether they fit with best practice and what information we can provide; that’s maybe small things like washing hands before giving first aid, or helping people decide when to get to the vet or how to bandage.”

Professor Freeman added that the study showed some owners are applying products, such as Sudocrem or purple and silver sprays, which are “not ideal in quite a number of wounds”.

“There’s been years and years of people using these products, but over time products have evolved or changed and the ingredients are not always clear,” she said, adding that some can prevent wounds being able to breathe or slow healing.

In the study, 80% of horses who had veterinary intervention were given antibiotics. H&H vet Karen Coumbe said this proportion was “somewhat surprising” and that when it comes to wound care, “effective cleaning and dressing” may mean antibiotics are unnecessary, avoiding “overuse of such precious medication”.

Ms Coumbe added that “the position of a wound is crucial”, rather than the size.

“Even if it is relatively large it might not be as bad as one might imagine, whereas a small deep puncture near a joint may be catastrophic, if it penetrates into a vital structure,” she said.

“If in doubt, always consult your vet – it is not difficult to send photographs or video to help obtain advice, although phone pictures can be misleading and it helps to see the injury to ensure all is well.

“If a horse seems lamer than expected or depressed, unwell or uncomfortable, always contact your vet.”

British Horse Society horse care and welfare education manager Emmeline Hannelly told H&H the research provides “valuable insight” and helps raise awareness of the importance of effective wound care.

“Wounds are a common problem and one that owners should be prepared for,” she said, adding that injuries can lead to infection and serious complications if they are not assessed and managed appropriately.

“Prompt assessment and treatment are important, and knowing when to seek veterinary advice can make a significant difference to the outcome.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2026, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:’

Puncture wounds – a potentially serious injury that can be easily missed

The best methods for treating equine wounds

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A heatwave that early in the year was unusual, and this week will be even more uncomfortable – and dangerous. Therefore, owners need to think about how to keep a horse cool right now, and we’ve got you covered. Here are Horse & Hound’s top tips on for keeping horses cool when things get really hot.

How to keep horses cool when temperatures soar

The number one piece of advice for working horses in hot weather is to exercise them as early in the morning as possible. While the evening could be an option, check your weather app in advance. It can still be well above 25ºC at 9pm in a heatwave, which might not be suitable for you or your horse.

Safe stabling

1. If your horse is normally stabled at night and out during the day, consider reversing his turnout times to avoid the hottest temperatures and the worst of the flies – especially if he has limited shade or shelter in the field.

Before deciding, check his stable isn’t actually more uncomfortable in the heat than his paddock. If there’s poor ventilation and no through breeze, his stable could be very stuffy. Setting up a portable fan out of reach of your horse may help to increase airflow and have a cooling effect.

2. If there is no permanent shelter or tree cover in your horse’s paddock, but you’d like him to stay out, you could use some sheeting to rig up a safe, temporary area of shade so he has the option.

Turnout tips

3. A light coloured fly rug or summer sheet works better than a dark coloured one for keeping the horse cool, because white is best for reflecting the sun’s heat.

A rug that has a loose weave material lets the horse’s body heat and sweat out more than a tight weave, but as a compromise provides less effective protection from the smallest flies and midges.

A wet rug has hugely increased cooling properties, so hosing the rug down while it is on your horse multiple times a day is worthwhile in the hottest temperatures.

4. Bringing your horse in for a cool hose off and turning him back out without scraping off the water will give him respite from the heat. If you can do it more than once, so much the better.

5. Pink skin and white areas on the face and heels are most commonly affected by sunburn because they have less skin pigment and hair coverage, so remember to apply one of the best suncreams for horses to these areas.

A fly mask with UV protective properties may also be helpful. Plus, those with a built-in nose net offer extra protection for pink noses.

How to keep horses cool while travelling

6. If you have to transport your horse in the hot weather, leave as early as possible. This avoids travelling in the worst heat and reduces the risk of getting stuck in traffic. Professional transporters in the UK are not allowed to move horses in temperatures exceeding 30°C – and this is a good rule of thumb for private owners to follow.

7. If you transport your horse, ensure all suitable windows are open to keep fresh air flowing through the horsebox. You can also use portable fans to help keep your horse cool.

If you have a roof vent, opening only the rear section while you are moving helps to draw the hot air out of the vehicle while cool air can enter through the windows. On arrival, the roof vent should be opened fully.

However, your horse might not be cooler standing on the lorry or trailer, even if he is out of the direct sun – think of dogs in hot cars. Consider whether he would be better off outside in the shade.

How to cool down a horse quickly

8. If you suspect that your horse may be suffering from heat stroke, put him in the shade and cool him continuously with free-flowing cool water.

The best way to do this is with a hosepipe, but if the hose has been sitting in the sun, make sure you run it first to remove any water that was left in the pipe. This water can be extremely hot and cause scalding so take care when you check it so you don’t get burnt either.

If you don’t have a hose, use a watering can or pour buckets over your horse instead. You will likely have to refill the vessels and repeat several times.

Another key is to allow the water to run off or evaporate without scraping off the excess liquid. The belief that leaving water on a horse will “cook” him is an equestrian urban myth – it simply isn’t true. The best way to cool a horse down quickly is to allow the water to draw heat away from the horse’s skin by evaporation.

You should also offer the horse water to drink every few minutes. If the horse appears wobbly (ataxic) then try to keep them walking in the shade, while continuing to apply cold water. If signs persist, contact your vet as a matter of urgency.

• For unlimited access to advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Considering transitioning your horse to barefoot, but not sure how to go about it? Spend any amount of time on social media and you’ll soon find that barefoot trimming and everything surrounding it is a hot topic.

“To my mind, enabling the horse to go barefoot is the gold standard,” says Tom Broadbridge, who qualified as a farrier in 2003 and is now purely a barefoot hoofcare professional.

“There are times when a horse can’t immediately go completely barefoot. Sometimes horses that look sound with shoes on may not be free from inflammation. Consequently, their unsoundness may be more obvious when the shoes are removed.

“If a horse is not sound, they may need another form of hoof protection after removing the shoes, such as hoof boots. In such cases, immediately going completely barefoot may not be best.”

Tom advises against making the transition alone.

“Firstly, ensure you’ve built a strong team of equine professionals around you. Communication with them is key.

“Speak to your vet and your hoof care professional for their advice rather than plunging straight into taking the shoes off.”

Why transition a horse to barefoot?

Keeping horses naturally is a significant motivator in the transition from shod to barefoot. There are several other reasons owners make the change too, including:

1. Cost

With the cost-of-living crisis applying increasing financial pressures – and leaving some owners unable to make ends meet – the thought of ditching a large six-weekly bill appeals to many. However, Tom advises proceeding with caution.

“If finances are your only motivation, I’d advise you to think again,” he says. “Barefoot is not necessarily the easy or cheap option. Keeping a barefoot horse requires a holistic approach, and you may find mounting costs with equine professionals in other areas of your horse’s management to address soundness without shoes, as they may mask lameness.”

2. Performance

“A horse often gains a more natural movement without the restriction of steel shoes,” explains Tom. “Watch the horses in the dressage arena that are barefoot.”

3. Retirement or semi-retirement

Many owners reassess their horses’ lifestyle when they reduce or remove their ridden routine. As well as removing shoes, many opt for 24/7 turnout or retirement livery, too.

4. Eliminates shoe pulling

If you have a horse that regularly pulls shoes, this leads to frequent call-outs mid-shoeing cycle and risks damage to the hoof.

5. A last resort

“I specialised in remedial farriery years ago and thought it was the key to everything,” explains Tom. “Then, you’d have cases where you’d throw every specialised shoe and technique you knew to fix a lame horse, but nothing would work.

“One client sent their horse to a barefoot rehab yard, and the horse came sound. It was one of the most exciting moments of my career. In fact, it was the beginning of my transition to barefoot.”

How to transition a horse to barefoot

Consulting your hoofcare professional alongside your vet and an independent nutritionist is the best way to set your horse up for a successful barefoot life.

That said, there’s much you can do in the months ahead to ease the transition.

Feeding

Ideally consulting with an independent nutritionist, Tom recommends reviewing and reducing the amount of sugar in your horse’s diet, from bucket to haynet.

“Sugar is a focus point because it is so influential in terms of inflammation,” says Tom. “But an independent nutritionist can help you review the micronutrients your horse is receiving for overall health and ensure they are optimally fed, too.”

Workload

“If I decided to take off my trainers and immediately go for a 20-mile walk, my feet would be in a sorry state,” says Tom. “It can be the same with newly-barefoot horses.”

While some individuals adapt quickly to work on hard or stony surfaces, others need time to adjust. Tom advises looking over your horse’s workload, scaling back for a period, then building up to your usual routine.

“Groundwork can be a great place to start,” adds Tom.

“If you’ve ever walked on uneven tarmac with no shoes, you’ll know how unpleasant it can feel and the effect on your gait.

“Now carry a saddle and a person. You’ve made an uncomfortable task even more difficult.”

All at once?

If a horse is shod all round, some owners choose to remove the back shoes first.

“The front feet carry about two-thirds of a horse’s weight,” says Tom. “Some owners like to remove the hind shoes first to allow the horse to adjust how he loads and potentially ease the transition.”

However, others may argue that there is a height differential between the shod and barefoot hooves, and that can cause unintended issues.

How to support a horse while transitioning to barefoot

Tom says it’s perfectly normal for newly barefoot horses to feel sensitive on stony ground.

“Anyone who was used to wearing shoes would be,” he says.

“However, if a barefoot horse appears lame on any surface, it is a cause for concern and action needs to be taken.”

Always gain advice from a qualified equine professional.

If you regularly walk your horse on a hard, uneven track – for example, to reach his paddock – hoof boots are a useful tool.

Tom, who designs and produces his own range of hoof boots, says it helps avoid the cumulative effect of contact with sub-optimal ground.

“Newly barefoot horses who walk on stones might develop slight bruising.

“This might be pretty inconsequential as a one-off, but if it’s a daily thing you get bruising forming on top of bruising, and that can become very sore. What’s more, it can cause inflammation and affect the rest of the body due to compensatory issues.

“Using hoof boots for any activity on surfaces, such as stony tracks, can reduce issues, especially in those early stages, by protecting your horse’s soles.

“Gradually introducing different surfaces when the horse is completely barefoot allows them to adjust, and improves hoof health over time.”

Choosing and fitting hoof boots

You can find many different hoof boot styles on the market, including Tom’s own design, Pioneer Sports hoof boots, which are a self-adjusting style to accommodate natural movement and a growing hoof throughout the trim cycle.

Each company has its own fitting and measurement guidelines.

Tom recommends consulting your hoofcare professional on a style and fit to suit your horse when seeking hoof boot advice.

“Some companies, like The Hoof Boutique, will give you advice based on images and measurements you send them or provide a fit kit.”

Dealing with hoof cracks

When transitioning a horse from shod to barefoot, hoof wall cracks or wall degradation are common.

“If your horse has been shod for quite some time, you’ll have a series of nail holes,” Tom explains.

“Here, the horn is weak and will break away.”

Always seek advice from the hoof care professional. Many riders reach for hoof conditioners and moisturisers, but Tom advises it is bacterial or fungal infection within the hoof wall, not dryness, that causes low-level cracking.

“Use an anti-bacterial and anti-fungal product on the hoof horn from about a centimetre below the coronary band,” he suggests. “This permeates the horn and tackles the infection.

“New growth is imbued with the treatment and the cracking should stop. You can actually smell the product when you trim the hoof.”

He adds that the white line can stretch due to flaring, meaning small stones and other debris become lodged within.

“You need a tool sharper and thinner than a hoof pick, such as a bradle, to gently clear it,” advises Tom.

“I’d then use a packing material [like this one] to preserve the white line.”

What’s the best time of year to transition a horse to barefoot?

For Tom, there are pros and cons to a summer versus a winter transition.

“If you transition in the winter, the ground is generally softer, but so are the feet,” he says. “So, the sole is more vulnerable to bruising and potentially more sensitive to stony underfooting.

“In the summer, the feet are generally harder and the sole less flexible, but also the ground is also harder and possibly more uncomfortable underfoot.”

The time of year you choose to transition will depend on what you already know about your horse’s feet. Ultimately, Tom recommends avoiding spring and autumn when the grass flushes and its sugar content intensifies.

“At these points in the year there’s a real boost of energy and sugar in the grass,” Tom explains. “This causes an instant response in the body that might lead to inflammation. It doesn’t need to be as severe as acute laminitis – even a small amount of inflammation in the body can make horses more sensitive.

“My horse has been barefoot for nine years. When the weather changes and the grass shoots up, he’ll feel the odd stone here and there where he wouldn’t have a couple of weeks before.

“And he’s not transitioning – he’s well into barefoot life.”

Ultimately, success will come from strategising ahead of removing your horse’s shoes.

“Start planning your transition while your horse is still shod,” says Tom. “Making dietary adjustments in advance, for example, can help minimise soreness, maintain hoof wall integrity and altogether make the transition far smoother.”

• For unlimited access to advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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If you’re planning to use artificial insemination (AI) for your mare this breeding season, how can you maximise the chances of a successful equine pregnancy? We outline the most important points to consider when using artificial insemination in horses and explain what’s involved in the process.

How is artificial insemination done in horses?

Routinely, the process is as follows…

1. Semen collection

This begins with appropriate preparation of the stallion and the environment. In well-managed studs, stallions are trained to mount a phantom (dummy) mare rather than a live mare. This significantly reduces risk to both animals and handlers. An artificial vagina (AV) is carefully prepared to replicate physiological conditions – specifically temperature, pressure, and lubrication – so that ejaculation occurs in a controlled and humane manner.

The veterinary surgeon, or suitably trained personnel under direction, must handle the stallion in a way that minimises stress and risk of injury. Hygiene is critical: the AV must be sterile or single-use lined. In addition, collection vessels must be clean and pre-warmed. Obvious contaminants, such as dirt or urine, must be avoided.

Poor technique here can compromise semen quality and ultimately fertility outcomes.

2. Semen evaluation and handling

Once collected, semen is assessed promptly and properly. This directly informs clinical decisions about whether the ejaculate is suitable for use and how it should be processed.

Evaluation typically includes motility (movement), concentration, and morphology (assessing size and shape). This is all carried out under controlled temperature conditions to avoid cold shock. Accuracy in terms of process and record-keeping is essential.

3. Extension and preparation

To preserve sperm viability and produce multiple doses, semen is diluted with an appropriate extender following evaluation. Extenders are designed to buffer pH, provide energy substrates, and reduce bacterial growth.

Controlled temperature conditions are essential to dilution. Abrupt changes can irreversibly damage sperm membranes. Again, traceability and documentation are important, particularly where transporting semen between premises.

4. Storage and transport

If semen is not used immediately, it may be cooled for short-term storage or frozen for long-term preservation.

5. Insemination and post-breeding care

Your vet will manually insert the semen at the optimum time using a pipette. The mare is typically scanned via ultrasound 24–48 hours post-insemination to ensure ovulation has occurred and to check for any fluid buildup in the uterus. A second ultrasound scan is performed 14–16 days after breeding to confirm conception.

Can AI be carried out at home?

AI can be carried out at home, at an equine clinic or at a specialist breeding centre. So what might influence your choice?

“Studies show that pregnancy rates improve with minimised potential stress,” says equine vet and breeding expert Emma Cooper MRCVS. “Certain horses may be more relaxed at home, but you will ideally need stocks for ultrasound scanning and insemination.”

Insemination with frozen semen is particularly difficult to carry out at home, yet fresh and chilled also need a vet’s input.

“An AI package at a stud or clinic could well prove cheaper, as driving and visit fees often add up to more,” says Emma. “The benefit of a clinic is that the vet can examine a mare as often as necessary without the owner having to be there.

“Every mare is different, but an experienced repro vet with knowledge of AI will be able to see more detail in the uterus and follicle to tell exactly where she is in her cycle. Better care will most likely bring a better result – and fewer scans could lower costs.”

Pros and cons of artificial insemination in horses

It sounds so simple – and often it is – yet AI can disappoint the unwary. Take a look below at its pros and cons in summary:

Advantages

• Reduced risk of injury to mare and stallion
• Access to geographically distant or elite stallions
• Allows use of chilled or frozen semen (genetic flexibility)
• Better disease control (no direct contact)
• Precise timing with ovulation → often good conception rates

Disadvantages

• Requires veterinary expertise and monitoring (costly)
• Variable fertility with frozen semen
• Not permitted in some studbooks (e.g. Weatherbys/The Jockey Club for thoroughbreds)
• Handling/storage logistics for semen

How much does AI cost?

Artificial insemination in horses can incur rapidly mounting costs, which you will need to add to the other costs of breeding a horse.

Pre-breeding assessment

Vets recommend a thorough pre-breeding check, which should include a complete gynaecological assessment, including ultrasound and appropriate tests for infections that can affect fertility (such as a blood test for equine viral arteritis and a swab for contagious equine metritis) as well as a general health check, including a worm egg count.

The mare’s vaccinations should also be up to date.

This is likely to cost between £215–300, including VAT, and is vitally important.

Cost of insemination

Costs for insemination can vary hugely depending on what clinical costs include. However, in addition to the cost of semen, you should be budgeting:

• Chilled semen package = at least £525, including two pregnancy scans (including VAT)
• Frozen semen package = at least £625, including two pregnancy scans (including VAT)

There are many potential additional costs, such as sedation, treatment for infection or infertility, such as uterine lavages and other additional treatments.

In other cases, the mares will be straightforward, and the costs may be less.

Be wary of additional charges

“Make sure you know the costs up front,” says Emma. “Ask if stud or clinic prices include extras such as livery, drugs and pregnancy scans, and whether you’ll pay the same the second time around if your mare does not conceive on the first cycle.

“Most AIs are fine, but complications can occur. Not all mares cycle every 21 days. Others produce excessive uterine fluid so that when the embryo enters the uterus it cannot survive.

“There’s also a reasonably high rate of twinning with some mares. The uterus is typically not large enough to sustain both embryos. While there’s a high success rate if one is ‘squeezed’ within the appropriate time, this does involve a risk to the other one.

“We don’t always know of potential problems until we start looking.”

Consider that a healthy foal, or that the foal will mature into a quality horse, is not a given. As such, careful consideration is essential from the outset.

What is the success rate of artificial insemination in horses?

Conformation, temperament, size, soundness and freedom from hereditary conditions – all these will influence your choice of stallion. But will your chosen stallion’s semen get your mare in foal?

You also want to obtain a fertility record from the stud manager. That said, relevant fertility data can be hard to obtain, warns Fred Barrelet, a Newmarket reproduction vet.

“The key measure of a stallion’s fertility is his per-cycle conception rate, but many stud owners don’t publish this,” he says. “The number of mares he gets into foal tells you nothing about the time taken. What you need to know is the breeding efficiency achieved with his semen.

“Ask the stallion owner, stud or semen vendor for the number of mares that become pregnant per cycle. A lot depends on management and the individual mare, but you need to hear an answer of about 50%.”

Semen quality/handling, timing and the standard of clinical management also affect success, although no single variable determines outcome. Rather, the pregnancy rate reflects how well these elements align.

Mare selection

Younger mares generally have higher conception rates. With advancing age, there is a higher incidence of degenerative changes within the uterus. Such changes mean that after breeding, fluid and inflammatory debris do not clear as well, resulting in an increased chance of persistent uterine infections.

This is one of the most common causes of subfertility.

In addition, the cervix of older mares may not relax as effectively during oestrus, which can hinder both semen deposition and uterine clearance.

Egg quality also declines with age, so even when fertilisation occurs, early embryonic loss is more likely. So clinically, this means older mares often require more intensive management.

Semen types: what are your options?

A good semen sample will contain billions of sperm, but which type is best for your mare?

• Fresh: straight from the stallion (who must be on-site or nearby), fresh semen offers the highest fertility rates and lasts longest once inseminated. Its lifespan is usually three hours from collection, but this varies between stallions.
• Chilled: next best fertility-wise. Chilled semen is mixed with extenders, preservatives and antibiotics to lengthen its lifespan to up to 30 hours. This enables insemination at home and widens stallion choice to further afield in the UK, or even Europe. Timing is still an issue: it must be ready at the premises prior to your mare ovulating.
• Frozen: fertility rates associated with frozen semen have improved with the use of extenders and veterinary management. It can be stored ready for use and opens up a worldwide pool of stallions. However, it requires considerable veterinary input, and can push up costs (insemination must take place within six hours prior to, and four hours after ovulation). Sperm from certain stallions has better post-thaw motility – swimming ability – than others.

Semen choice will largely depend upon your mare’s age and breeding health. Fresh or chilled will maximise an older mare’s chances of conceiving – provided it arrives on time, prior to ovulation.

Getting the timing right

During the horse breeding season, a mare ovulates (releases an egg) every 18-24 days – a process called cycling. Each egg forms inside the ovary in a structure known as a follicle.

“A mare is in season – or oestrus – for four to seven days, although this can vary from two to 12 days,” says Emma. “She is then out of season (in dioestrus), for 14-15 days.”

Timing and logistics therefore play a crucial role in successful AI.

“The stud team must work within a relatively narrow biological window as to when the mare is going to ovulate working with perishable materials,” adds Emma.

“It can be harder than one might think to predict ovulation and select the best time to inseminate a mare. Each mare is individual and reproductive cycles will vary. Therefore, veterinary teams must monitor her frequently and diligently monitoring using ultrasound, particularly when breeding from older mares.”

Vets can manipulate the point of ovulation to enable insemination of semen at the optimum moment, according to its type.

“During a season, follicle growth goes hand-in-hand with an increase in the oedema [fluid] within the mare’s uterus,” explains Emma. “When the follicle reaches a key size of 35mm we can use either one of two ovulation-inducing drugs, Chorulon and Ovuplant.

“The mare should then ovulate within 24-48 hours, which gives us a window to order and inseminate semen prior to ovulation. Follicle size may be smaller, though, particularly in ponies, so it helps to know a mare’s breeding history.”

Health is key

According to the British Equestrian Veterinary Association (BEVA), due to the serious concern of the spread of infectious diseases, it is best practice to only accept semen from a stallion for AI tested for contagious equine metritis (CEM), equine viral arteritis (EVA) and equine infectious anaemia (EIA) after 1 January 2026.

Generally, vets request that this certification arrive with the semen at delivery, otherwise they will be unable to proceed with insemination. This is already mandatory for all EU/foreign stallions – it is illegal to use semen from an unknown source or imported from abroad without the required health documentation.

It is wise to request this certification for UK stallions as well.

How do I prepare my mare for artificial insemination?

Good general health is essential for a mum-to-be, so keep your mare’s vaccination and worming programmes up to date and her hooves and teeth well maintained.

But how else can you prepare her for AI?

“We’d rather see a mare too light than too heavy, so aim for fair condition,” says Edward Matson of Twemlows Stud Farm and AI/ET (embryo transfer) centre. “Like females of all species, horses are more likely to conceive on a rising plane of nutrition.”

If you’re sending your mare to a stud or clinic for AI, pre-entry health requirements could include checks for CEM, EVA, EIA and strangles.

Edward points out that pre-breeding examinations are not always definitive in predicting a mare’s chances of conceiving.

“It is difficult to assess a maiden [first-time] mare’s reproductive health before she comes into season,” he says. “A specialised equine repro vet might suggest endometrial swabs or more complex biopsies with a potential problem mare.

“Around 80% of problems occur once the semen is inserted in the uterus, however. You can’t tell too much till then.

“If your mare has foaled previously, give the vet as much information as you can about her breeding history. This should include her own breeding information, the type of semen used and the cycle she conceived on – or why she didn’t. This can save a lot of time and money.

“Be realistic with an older maiden mare. She may be super-fertile or she may not, but you won’t know until you try.”

• For unlimited access to advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Horses wear sunglasses (often called equine goggles or visors) for a variety of reasons that are all centred around protecting their eyes. The most common reasons include:

• managing conditions, such as equine recurrent uveitis, headshaking or photosensitivity
• UV protection 
• glare reduction, improving a horse’s vision in bright conditions
• extra protection during recovery from injury or surgery
• high-risk sports, to prevent injuries from flying dirt kickback or balls, for example

Just like humans, horses benefit from the protection sunglasses, goggles and visors offer from harmful UV rays and sun glare. Horses with little or no pigment in the skin around their eyes are particularly vulnerable and can suffer from sunburn, squinting, watery eyes, sunburn, cataracts, and even cancer.

When can a horse wear sunglasses?

Unlike fly masks, equine sunglasses, googles or visors of any kind should only be worn when ridden or supervised. This is because of the potential for them to move or get caught if a horse rubs their face.

Visors are not permitted to be worn in competition by many governing bodies (including British Dressage, British Eventing and British Showjumping), so it’s recommended that you check individual rulebooks first. They are permitted in some cases by the British Horse Racing Authority, but must be declared in advance.

Googles, visors and sunglasses are, however, also marketed for use in the following sports and areas of equestrianism across the world:

• hacking or trail riding
• barrel racing
• eventing or cross-country
• showjumping
• endurance
• racing
• polo, including snow polo
• mounted shooting protection
• skijoring

Types of sunglasses for horses

Some visors – those with transparent lenses – only serve to protect a horse’s eyes from trauma, which could be caused by flying dirt or other objects.

Goggles or sunglasses with tinted lenses offer varying levels of light blocking, although this is not the same as UV protection. Horse sunglasses are also assigned filter categories (just like human sunglasses) depending on the strength of the filter, ranging from zero to four, with category four being the darkest.

Below are one model’s (the eQuick eVysor) visible light transmission percentages for their available tinted lenses, along with the filter categories for context.

• Transparent: 98.08%, category 0
• Mirrored orange: 46.28%, category 1
• Mirrored blue: 42.64%, category 2
• Mirrored green: 38.41%, category 2
• Mirrored rainbow: 19.85%, category 2
• Darker: 10.45%, category 3

Visors typically fit over the ears and secure under the jaw. Some have elasticated straps to make them easier to put on and take off.

Visors for police horses

While Horse & Hound has previously reported on a police horse who wore sunglasses for medical reasons, some situations require mounted police horses to wear specialist visors that protect the eyes and nose from objects thrown in a public order or riot situation. These are category zero glasses designed purely for trauma protection rather than light reduction.

• For unlimited access to the latest product news, buying guides and reviews, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Devon & Cornwall Police has issued the order, under which the dog must be under control at all times and including a requirement to secure its home property to prevent its escape.

Kirstie McPherson told H&H she was terrified to turn her horses out in the field she rents, after her home-bred two-year-old and his dam both suffered tendon injuries. She also had to send back a pony she had on loan for her autistic son, for fear he might be injured too.

“I’m doing this to highlight to people what steps they can take to protect their animals,” she said. “People should know that this is a crime.”

Kirstie said she first realised there was an issue early this year when her horses went through the electric fence, something they had never done previously. She installed cameras to try to find out what was happening.

“I found my two-year-old looking like he’d broken his leg,” she said. “It was the worst thing you could ever see. I phoned the vet, expecting they would have to put him down, but they said it was a tendon injury and he must have been chased to the point he injured it.

“We put him on box rest and put a rescued Dartmoor we had back out. We didn’t realise until that night, when I saw a dog on the camera chasing him, what had happened.”

Kirstie said she saw the dog jumping into its owners’ garden, so went to speak to them but nothing changed.

“I warned them but a couple of weeks ago, I found my boy’s dam looking like she’d broken her leg,” she said. “The fencing was down and the dog was in the field.

“I posted on local social media asking if anyone had a contact for local police who might go and speak to them, and someone said, ‘Call 101 as it’s a crime now.’”

H&H reported that the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act came into effect on 18 March. It gives police more powers to deal with dog attacks on livestock, including horses.

New dog law: more protection for horses

“If the dog’s found in the field again, it’s in breach of the order and the owners can be prosecuted,” Kirstie said. “It’s been an absolute nightmare. But I didn’t realise it was a crime, so I thought it was good to highlight to other people that if their horses are being worried by dogs, things can be done. The police were absolutely brilliant.”

A Devon & Cornwall Police spokesperson told H&H: “The dog control order says that the dog must be under control at all times and there is a requirement to secure its home property to prevent its escape.” Should the order be breached, he added, “action could be taken, including considering prosecution.”

British Horse Society (BHS) safety team manager Des Payne told H&H when the amended legislation was approved that there were still some issues it did not address, such as clarification that it covers horses while being driven or ridden.

“While it’s encouraging to hear that some police are using the additional powers they have available to them, it’s still so early to truly know the impact the bill will have on the equestrian community moving forwards,” he told H&H this week.

“Continuing to log incidents on the BHS Horse i App is vital and I would encourage those who have to use your incident reference number to update us with any outcomes once an investigation is concluded, which will provide us with a valuable insight on how the bill is being enforced.”

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Equinavia, based in Connecticut, has worldwide exclusive rights to the equestrian clothing and footwear brand, which was founded by former top eventer Aidan Keogh in 1993. Aidan will “continue to play a key role in the brand’s future through a multi-year consulting agreement”, an Equinavia spokesperson said.

“We are very fortunate to secure the rights to Tredstep and even more honoured that its founder, Aidan Keogh, will continue working with us,” said Fred Erik Nilsen, president of Equinavia.

“We want to sincerely thank all the retail partners and agents who have supported and pushed the Tredstep brand forward over the years. You have done a fantastic job making Tredstep the eminent brand it is today, and we are truly grateful.”

Tredstep sold: next steps

Mr Nilsen added that the team is looking forward to working with these partners to grow the brand.

“We are proud to welcome Tredstep into the Equinavia family,” he said. “We believe it is an excellent strategic fit. We are already working closely with our factories to rebuild stock levels and better serve the strong demand that has historically been underserved. It may take us a minute to fully catch up, but we are fully committed to getting there.”

Equinavia also manufactures rider wear, footwear and helmets, as well as tack, rugs and yard equipment.

Aidan said: “I am pleased to partner with Equinavia to ensure Tredstep’s continued success.

“I believe this is the right next step for the brand and look forward to contributing my experience as we move forward together.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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£119.99

‘We’re absolutely still in business’: sale secures future of major equestrian brands

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

These were among the messages from the 2026 World Horse Welfare survey of public perception of the involvement of horses in sport, which the charity has been commissioning annually since 2022.

The 2026 World Horse Welfare survey found that more of the public see horses as pets (65%) or leisure animals (64.9%) rather than working animals (56.1%), livestock (54.3%) or sport animals (49.4%). Most (70.5%) believe horses’ welfare should “always take priority, regardless of the effect on performance” (70.3%), and that short-term pain or discomfort to improve performance is not very or not at all acceptable (77.3%).

World Horse Welfare CEO Roly Owers said it is clear that equine welfare has a key role in the future sustainability of the global equestrian sector, citing the major strides made in this area.

“But we also hear criticism,” he said.”For some, welfare standards in sport are already so high, they do not need to change, and any attempt at improvement is only to appease the antis. That by talking about welfare, sport is only damaging its own reputation.

“Others say welfare initiatives launched to maintain social licence are all talk and no action. But concerns about welfare will not go away, and you can only address an issue if you face up to it. World Horse Welfare has always been clear that improving equine welfare is pivotal, not primarily because that’s what the public expects but because that’s exactly what it means to put the horse first.

“There is growing evidence that we can do better, and if we know better, we must do better. Doing right by our horses, putting a horse’s wellbeing at the centre of everyone’s decision-making, has to be the fundamental goal for every sport. Yes, this is what the public expects and it will enable the sport to thrive. As David Yellen summed up so well at last year’s event, the best form of PR is to do the right thing.”

The 2026 World Horse Welfare survey trends

Mr Owers said the 2026 World Horse Welfare survey results do not show a positive trend. This year, it was shown that the percentage of those who support horse sport only if welfare improves is about the same as in 2022, at just under 40%. But there has been a slight increase in the number who do not support involvement of horses in sport in any circumstances, from 19.5% to 24.4%.

Mr Owers said this increase may be “within the margin of error”, and not too much of a red flag, but it is “certainly one to continue to watch”.

A panel of experts considered the results and what they may mean. One key issue is that the majority of the public have no regular contact with horses and may never even have seen one.

“A fundamental underlying threat to all equestrianism, sports and non-sports, is that most people in the UK have never had any contact with a horse at all,” said British Equine Veterinary Association CEO David Mountford. “That creates a real problem that we need to get across, and that’s more than just snazzy videos or a social media presence.”

Racing broadcaster and journalist Lydia Hislop pointed out that with the increasing urbanisation of society comes a lack of understanding, citing for example the lack of mainstream coverage of Ros Canter’s Badminton win so soon after she had her second child.

“I think that’s what’s lacking, being able to give people the understanding to be able to watch something like that and see why it was good,” she said. “I think that’s a key form of communication needed to reach people, for further understanding.

“All horse sports have to work out how we can reach out, broaden people’s understanding, explain to people why they should be interested in this. I think that’s the key; communication in an instant, efficient way that grabs people’s attention. We’re all working in an attention economy, and that’s what I think everybody’s communications focus needs to work on.”

2026 World Horse Welfare survey debate: communicating is key

She added that if we look back at our increased understanding, “the idea that we wouldn’t bring new technology, new understanding to make things better is just an absurd position to hold. It’s a way of gently challenging ourselves, so we inside the sport, can look inside it and challenge ourselves to do better, then we’re also better armed with that understanding to communicate outside the sports.”

Former top eventer David O’Connor, chief of sport at US Equestrian (USEF) and chair of the FEI eventing committee, spoke of measures brought in by USEF to improve welfare, such as extending its jurisdiction to cover incidents outside affiliated competition. He also covered the strides made in improving eventing safety internationally; using data and, for example, frangible technology to reduce horse falls.

Asked about recent issues in dressage, and whether other disciplines are behind eventing, he said: “I think eventing is more comfortable with it because they’ve been in it longer.

“They’ve been doing this for 25 years and the other sports are starting to realise this is an important part of the equation. Racing is doing it, dressage is doing it; in the showjumping world, use of the whip that has been adjusted. I think other sports are realising how important this conversation is and that it is not going away.

“So how do we remain proactive? Through education, rules, telling the stories, which is a huge thing. Multiple pieces of the puzzle have to be worked on together; there’s not one thing that will fix it, and using data and science, such as on how animals think, it gives you a way to be able to measure whether you’re actually making a difference.”

Exceptional performance

Minette Batters, chair of British racing’s Horse Welfare Board, also mentioned Ros’s win, describing it as “probably the most exceptional performance I have ever seen”, from horse and rider, and that the sport must learn from it.

“These stories – you want people who want to be Ros Canter, work for Ros Canter, to be stable staff, climb the ladder, be champion jockey,” she said. “That’s the wonderful thing about horses, you can come from anywhere in life and rise to the stars, and that’s the story people want to hear, but you’ve got to be pulling that.

“There’s a lot to be learned from what happened with Ros, because we tend to follow influencers, celebrities, people with huge Instagram accounts, and it’s not all about that, that’s wrong for every part of horse sport.”

Baroness Batters said the welfare board is planning “welfare champions” on every yard in racing, and that another key is for the horse world to open its doors, invite people in, “bring them in and take them with us”.

David O’Connor agreed, adding that warm-up areas, as well as yards, need to be open to all eyes.

“We have an expression in the United States: if you can’t train in the middle of Central Park and explain it and have people like it, probably you’re doing it wrong,” he said.

“And dressage is looking at it, looking at the change. You’ll see things come out this year about judging. In the end I think openness and being willing to be open, whether it’s yards, training, warm-ups, competition, that’s going to permeate all the way through the decision-making.”

Humility needed

Sharing his views on the 2026 World Horse Welfare survey, Mr Mountford said he thinks progress is being made; good work is being done, awareness and engagement are high and the momentum needs to be maintained.

“But it shouldn’t be seen that we’ll get to a point and we can stop,” he said. “What needs to continue to improve is consistency and transparency, and making sure what’s written into codes and aspirations of groups like the Horse Welfare Board actually is reality and are communicated as being real.

“I think also what’s true in horse sports, racing, is that we don’t have much humility. How you achieve it, I don’t know, but we need to bring a big box of humility to the table. We can all learn every week, from a colleague, from someone with decades of experience or from the latest research on how horses learn.

“Riders at the very top will be having weekly lessons and people throughout the industry should be, on riding, but also on what’s going on with science, how they can improve, how we can learn.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Laminitis is a common, painful condition which manifests itself in one or more of the horse’s hooves. It is a multifactorial condition, which means it can be caused by a number of factors, but it frequently arises as the result of a metabolic upset.

While laminitis is often seen in native ponies during periods of peek grass growth, overweight horses of any type can be at risk – and suffer from the condition – at any time of year. Horses with underlying issues, such as Cushing’s disease or Equine Metabolic Syndrome, are also at greater risk.

“The modern equine lifestyle of cosy stables, rugs and over-full haynets is often where the problem of laminitis stems from,” says Kate Hore, head nutritionist at NAF.

“The largest part of any diet should be forage and grazing. When that is rich spring grass, it can be a real risk for the laminitis-prone.

“We should be feeding as naturally as possible, which means feeding a high-fibre, high-forage diet with little to no starchy cereals, such as may be found in concentrates.”

So, how to approach feeding horses with laminitis, or those at risk? Read on for advice from nutrition experts. It’s important to note, however, that laminitis is a veterinary emergency – if you suspect your horse has it, please call your vet before doing anything else.

Feeding horses with laminitis – in the bucket

If a horse has been diagnosed with laminitis, then take individual advice from your vet, but generally speaking, they should be fed little and often in line with good equine feeding practice.

Fibre should form the bulk of their diet alongside essential vitamins and minerals, while sugar and starch levels should be kept low. Because hay, haylage and grass are naturally deficient in some nutrients, forage alone is not sufficient to deliver a fully balanced diet, so a top-up of essential vitamins, minerals and trace elements is required.

Pelleted forage balancers are an ideal bucket feed for laminitis-prone horses. Balancers work to ensure horses receive their recommended daily intakes (RDA) across the full spectrum of their diet. Some of these feeds are formulated specifically for horses prone to laminitis.

While they provide key vitamins, minerals and quality protein to suit the horse’s lifestyle and workload, they also keep calorie, starch and sugar intakes low. However, they must be fed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to be effective.

“Ensure you maintain a good vitamin, mineral and quality protein intake. This supports muscle, hoof health, coat condition and internal nutrient reserves and healthy fibre levels to support gut function,” says Emma Short, equine nutritionist at Baileys Horse Feeds.

“For horses that need additional calories for weight gain, high-calorie fibre sources can be added along with the balancer. These might include unmolassed alfalfa chaffs with added oil, or soaked beet products. High oil supplements are also available,” she adds.

If a balancer is not the right option for your horse, you can also feed a supplement specifically for horses on restricted grazing, which will ensure they get the nutrients they need.

Feeding forage to a laminitic

Forage should make up the bulk of any horse’s diet, because it’s essential for healthy gut function. What’s more, it’s a horse’s chief source of energy (calories).

With this in mind, it’s important to consider how much hay to feed a horse. Most nutritionists say horses should ideally eat forage on an ad-lib basis.

However, this method delivers too many calories to some horses. Therefore, most nutritionists agree horses should eat between 2–2.5% of their bodyweight in dry matter forage (i.e. weight of hay less its moisture content) to maintain condition, or 1.5–1.8% for weight loss.

Another approach to feeding hay is to ensure your horse never has to fast for more than four hours. Consequently, you may need to look at ways to increase his chew time by making his ration last longer. You can do this using forage blocks, small-holed haynets and slow feeders.

Soaking hay will help to reduce the sugar content and calorie intake, while clean mature (stalky) hay is preferable to fresh green hay.

Feeding good quality oat or barley straw as part of a horse’s forage consumption is also an option. Because it’s low in calories yet high in fibre, it helps extend chew time without oversupplying energy.

Always ensure the straw is a nice yellow colour and free from mould. As with hay, there should be no airborne spore clouds emerging when you pull it apart.

Is hay or haylage better for laminitics?

The right type of forage for feeding horses with laminitis is low in WSCs (water-soluble carbohydrates, which include sugar and fructans), starch and calories.

Forages vary widely, and these factors could be true of either hay or haylage. It’s also true that some hay types deliver more calories than haylage.

Therefore, it’s best to consider what to put in a laminitic horse’s haynet in terms of its content. You can ask the manufacturer for advice, or send samples of your forage off for analysis. Bear in mind, you would need to do this regularly and comprehensively, which is an additional cost.

If you feed hay, a late-cut crop is the most suitable. Late-cut hay is typically a stalkier, more mature plant that is less nutritious than early-cut hay, which is soft and leafy.

However, you can further reduce your hay’s WSC and calorie content by soaking it. The degree of nutrient reduction required determines how long to soak hay.

Soaking hay also reduces its fibre and dry matter content. This means you can safely feed a greater quantity to a laminitic horse, so they can chew for longer.

Grazing horses prone to laminitis

Feeding horses with laminitis can mean avoiding grass entirely, depending on their health or weight status. Always adhere to veterinary advice when considering turnout for a laminitis-prone horse. Vets recommend active laminitis cases be kept indoors in a deep, soft bed to minimise the risk, or degree, of pedal bone rotation.

Generally speaking, the grass is at its most dangerous for laminitis-prone (i.e. producing the most sugar) when it is…

• experiencing flush, fresh growth
• under stress from over-grazing
• covered with frost on a bright morning where temperatures are below 4ºC (as sugar is produced but cannot be used for growth)

“For an overweight pony in light work, ideally we want to limit access to fresh grazing,” explains Kate. “If he needs additional fibre, ensure it is a low WSC hay or haylage, and consider soaking to reduce sugars.”

Many laminitics are notoriously good-doers, and love their food. Research shows that ponies on restricted turnout can adapt both bite rate and the amount taken in each bite, so that they can essentially eat as much in three hours as they would naturally do in 12 hours.

“Think of ways that you can maximise the time turned out, but still control access to grazing. It’s best to avoid a small cornered off area as that encourages them to stand and eat; natural movement is what we want. Track systems can be really useful, if practical, alternatively look at using a grazing muzzle or strip grazing to limit intake whilst encouraging mobility,” continues Kate.

But what about the horse in a higher level of work? The basic feeding principle with a laminitis-prone animal is really the same as with any horse, and that is “feed to work done”.

“For a fit but insulin-resistant eventer, we might be looking at alfalfa chaffs and controlled grazing, with additional oil, to provide all the energy they need,” explains Kate. “Supplement these with concentrated vitamins and trace elements to balance the diet.”

Prevention is better than a cure

If your horse is prone to laminitis, it’s important to regularly body condition score them to monitor their weight.

Ask for advice from your vet or nutritionist if you’re unsure how to do it. Plus, keep a record so you can track the results. Taking photos can also be useful.

“One of the key messages is working towards stopping laminitis happening rather than dealing with it,” Lizzie Drury, senior nutritionist at Saracen Horse Feeds.

“Be on high alert with your horse, particularly if he’s prone to laminitis, and don’t allow him to become overweight. Be constantly aware of what and how much you’re feeding him and his exercise level. Ask whether he needs to be rugged. Be aware 365 days a year,” she concludes.

Feeding competition horses prone to laminitis

The effect of the diet on laminitic horses is complex, and requires expert tailored advice from a nutritionist. Spillers nutritional content manager Vanessa Allen emphasises “prioritising health over performance”.

“We would recommend feeds based on body condition first and ridden energy levels second,” she explains. “For good-doers, balancers would be the first choice. Ensure all essential nutrients are provided, then choose a balancer specifically aimed at harder-working horses. Protein quality is just as important as quantity – for example, deficiency in lysine can limit protein synthesis, affecting muscle health and overall performance.”

Even if you feel your competition horse needs more oomph, if he’s prone to laminitis, most traditional competition course mixes are off the menu.

“This can make balancing energy levels difficult,” says Vanessa. “Some low-starch, high-energy performance feeds could be sensible options, ideally providing energy from oil and fibre rather than cereal.”

Meal sizes are another factor when considering starch and sugar intake, don’t just look at percentages.

“A balancer with a combined starch and sugar content of 15% provides just 75g of starch and sugar when fed at 500g per day; a feed with just 5% provides 150g when fed at 3kg per day,” Vanessa points out.

“As a guide, restrict non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) or ‘starch or sugar’ to less than 0.5g per kilogram of body weight per meal – less than 250g for a 500kg horse – for those who are not severely insulin-dysregulated. For the latter, seek advice from a nutritionist or vet; testing the horse’s insulin response to their normal feed and/or forage may be helpful.”

For laminitics in particular, Vanessa warns: “It’s important to tackle the whole diet, with potentially stricter forage and grass management – don’t just concentrate on the bucket feed. Consider all strategies to reduce sugar intake: soaking hay and reducing access to grazing.”

Vanessa would also recommend having your forage analysed for water soluble carbohydrate (via the “wet chemistry” method) to discover if it is suitable for your horse to eat.

• For unlimited access to advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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The Happy Mare balancer is formulated specifically to support the nutritional needs of mares, helping them maintain a normal oestrus cycle as undesirable behaviour is often attributed to hormonal fluctuations that affect the mare’s physical comfort and way of going.

The balancer combines targeted botanical ingredients, including chaste tree berry, raspberry leaf and dandelion, with complete daily nutrition to support hormonal balance, digestive health, and overall wellbeing. The ingredients have been chosen to help mares maintain an even temperament and steady energy levels, while supporting muscle tone and topline for good-doers.

The new balancer provides mare owners a practical and easy feeding solution that offers an alternative to adding a supplement to their existing daily feed ration. As a small daily serving, the balancer can also be fed by hand, which makes it ideal for fussy eaters.

Blue Chip describes the formulation as being underpinned by a strong focus on digestive health, recognising its critical role in hormone function, adding that when the gut is out of balance, hormones can be, too. By combining targeted ingredients with the right balance of essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and advanced digestive support, Happy Mare balancer is formulated to help mares feel more consistent, settled and comfortable.

This balancer is not recommended for pregnant mares or broodmares because of its chaste tree berry content.

Blue Chip Happy Mare balancer

The Blue Chip Happy Mare balancer is available in a 3kg recyclable pouch with an RRP of £31.75. This bag will last a 500kg horse one month.

• For unlimited access to the latest product news, buying guides and reviews, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Best feed balancers for all horses: what’s on the market?

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11 supplements formulated to help hormonal mares

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Taking on a home that needs restoration or upgrading isn’t for the faint-hearted and takes careful consideration. However, with rural properties still in such high demand, looking at homes that need some TLC can increase your options. But how much work is too much and can it save money?

Renovating an equestrian property: what to know before you buy

Fox Grant managing director and senior valuer William Grant says there is room for negotiations on properties that need work.

“When valuing a property, we’ll put an amount on the land and then so much on the house,” he says.

“If it’s in a terrible state, we might then discount that by 10-20%, or more. This is because somebody is not going to pay the top price when they need to spend significant money on tidying it up,” he says.

“If you’re viewing a property that needs refurbishment it’s worth taking a builder with you, so you’re going in with your eyes open as to what things might cost. The price of materials such as ply board and insulation have gone through the roof since Covid, so you have to be careful what you take on.”

He also suggests feeling things out planning-wise ahead of your purchase.

“I would also always recommend doing a planning pre-application to the local authority to check what can be replaced, or if you can rebuild the house and so on – and they are obliged to reply in eight weeks.

“Generally speaking, if there has been planning permission for, say, a barn that’s lapsed, you could feel reasonably confident that you’ll get that back.”

Hidden challenges

Horse owner Julie Hulland estimates she has spent around £70,000 – almost double what she had planned to – on renovations to her three-acre property in North Devon.

“We didn’t necessarily go looking for a project, but it was the only way we could get what we wanted within our budget,” she says.

“The first priority was sorting out the stables; I have a chunky 16.2hh mare and a 17.2hh gelding, and the stables were only 11x11ft so we extended them backwards, which has given us probably an extra four-foot.”

The house also required attention.

“We knew there were certain things that we needed to do on the house. For example, we wanted to raise the kitchen ceiling because it was really low,” she explains.

“However, once we started the work inside, we realised there were a lot more things that needed to be put right. We found rotten joists under floors, rotten floorboards, and the shower room was in quite a bad state.

Julie has learned vital lessons in the process.

“I’ve learned how important it is to do your research. We had a survey done on the property, but in hindsight as we didn’t need a mortgage, we probably didn’t get the best of surveys.

“I’d recommend getting to know the horsey community and get recommendations on local people for doing the work.”

“Effective budgeting is key”

William Dalrymple, senior associate of rural surveyors Davidson & Robertson, says typically if a buyer has a good budget, there is “not much that can’t be sorted out” with regard to upgrades and repairs.

“Effective budgeting is key to ensure that post-purchase costs don’t catch the buyer out if there are extensive works required,” he says.

“If a property has damp or subsidence, it is likely that the costs of repair will be quite high. Also, typically roofs need to be considered closely, as do central heating systems and windows.”

Never underestimate the power of location to stretch or shrink a budget.

“Projects in Scotland tend to be better suited to a tighter budget as the base cost of purchasing the property is generally lower than southern England,” Mr Dalrymple continues.

“The same theory can be applied to Wales and northern England, but it is always sensible to factor in the cost of getting materials to places and decent tradesmen.”

Looking at non-equestrian properties can also open up the search, as it did for rider Alex Kilcoyne when she bought a cottage with two-and-a-half acres of land that was formerly part of an estate in Cheshire.

“The house was once a tiny slaughterman’s cottage and had already been extended and remodelled over the years, but there were lots of things that hadn’t been done particularly well,” she says.

“We entered into it knowing it was going to need fully renovating and negotiated around £30,000 off the purchase price, then off we went on this whole journey of understanding old properties.

“First, we looked to extend it, but it was going to cost around £30-40,000 for a small footprint, so instead we reconfigured the layout to make it work better.”

Alex later put in a riding arena and new driveway, costing in the region of £50,000.

“We spoke to our financial advisor and we figured it would add value to the property,” Alex says.

“We were quoted £40-60,000 for the drive. However, I got speaking to the arena guys and they had all the equipment there and were able to do it for £10,000. It’s always worth finding out what else contractors can do when they’re there.”

Heritage snags

Older properties might have bags of charm, but a key consideration is whether it is a listed building – those of special architectural or historic interest – as these carry legal protection on what work can be done.

“A significant proportion of equestrian homes, particularly those with character and land, are period or heritage assets,” explains Fine & Country managing director Jonathan Handford.

“While they can be incredibly appealing, they also come with a specific set of obligations that buyers need to fully understand before proceeding.”

Unlike standard properties, listed buildings are subject to strict controls.

“Repairs or upgrades must often be carried out using traditional materials and methods, and in many cases require consent.

“This can significantly increase the cost and complexity of works. It is not simply a case of ‘renovate and add value’. There are legal and practical constraints that can limit what can be done and how quickly.”

Jonathan adds that listed building constraints may limit adding future value to the property.

“If you are restricted in what you can alter, extend or modernise – or if the cost of compliant works is disproportionately high – the ability to unlock additional value is reduced.

“Buyers therefore need to be clear on what is and is not achievable before relying on future value gains,” he says.

Look at the lie of the land

It’s not always the home that needs upgrading. While there may be room for negotiations for neglected land, William Grant warns that buyers will need time and patience when returning ground back to its best.

“Where the land hasn’t been managed well and it’s in rough, poor condition, it’s not a question of just going in and mowing and spraying,” he explains, adding it’s always worth taking a knowledgeable farmer or contractor along to view and advise.

“Land can take two or three years to get it back in good health. You might need to invest £1,500-2,000 an acre to have it properly drained.”

When it comes to your dream horsey haven, looking beyond what’s in front of you can pay dividends.

“Not everyone has vision, but if you can find somebody with good ideas and the ability to visualise, you really can transform eyesores into diamonds,” says William.

• For unlimited access to advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

This new generation of stallions is standing on British soil – from young horses in their first or second year of breeding to competition-proven sires whose offspring are competing at the highest level. Post-Brexit logistics have made importing semen more complex and more expensive. The result is a growing appetite for high-quality stallions standing closer to home – and the British stud industry is rising to meet the demand.

Whether you’re breeding a future grand prix dressage horse, a top-class eventer, a careful showjumper, or a quality native breed, there are British stallions worth considering at every level and price point. Below, we’ve gathered some of the most interesting UK stallions standing at stud – by discipline, with notes on what each is producing, what kind of mare they suit, and how to book.

Jump to:

• UK dressage stallions at stud
• UK showjumping stallions at stud
• UK eventing stallions at stud
• UK showing, native and pony stallions at stud

UK stallions at stud: dressage

Sezuan’s Donnerhall (Sezuan x Sir Donnerhall I)

This dark chestnut Oldenburg stallion has stood in the UK since 2024, bringing one of the most exciting young dressage sire lines to British breeders. By the three-time World Young Horse Champion Sezuan – unbeaten at FEI young horse level, with scores of over 9.7 in the five- and six-year-old finals – Sezuan’s Donnerhall has the pedigree, the conformation and the performance record to back up the hype.

He won his 14-day performance test in Neustadt-Dosse on 9.34, then dominated his 50-day test at Schlieckau on 9.19, including a perfect 10 for canter and 9.5 for rideability, willingness to perform, and overall impression. He’s described as having outstanding paces and first-class rideability – qualities he passes on to his offspring.

His damsire, Sir Donnerhall I (by Sandro Hit), is one of Germany’s most influential dressage sires, and his dam, Siola, is a three-quarter sister to the licensed small tour stallion San Schufro. A strong all-round option for breeders looking to produce a top-class dressage horse with both expression and trainability.

Year of birth: 2015

Height: 171cm

Studbook: Oldenburg

WFFS status: negative

Stud fee: £1000 + VAT

For more information: visit elitestallions.co.uk

L’Espoir (Lord Loxley I x Warkant)

A standout from the 2009 Danish Warmblood stallion licensing, L’Espoir now offers UK breeders – particularly those in Scotland and the north of England – access to a top-quality dressage sire.

He achieved the highest-ever score at the Danish 35-day test in 2009, recording 944 with three perfect 10s and no score below nine – a result only two stallions have since exceeded. The Danish breeding director Karina Christiansen described him as “the prototype of the future dressage horse,” and the judges at Redefin called him a “miracle mover.”

He has competed internationally to inter I. His offspring have been fetching top prices at European auctions, including Lord Schufro (€220,000 at the 2012 AOS Auction) and Loui (€55,000 at the 2016 Westfalen Winter Auction). His progress is reflected in the latest Baileys Horse Feeds British Breeding Futurity all-time sire rankings, where he has climbed from 102nd to 52nd – a clear signal that his offspring are making their mark.

Year of birth: 2006

Height: 169cm

Studbook: Danish Warmblood (approved across multiple European studbooks)

WFFS status: negative

Stud fee: Available on enquiry (fresh and chilled semen, concessions available)

At stud with: Romanno Stud, Lanarkshire, Scotland

For more information: visit romannostud.co.uk or phone 01899 810223

Durable (Spielberg TN x Obelisk)

A British-based grand prix dressage stallion with international competition status, exceptional offspring quality at home and a temperament breeders and riders alike rave about, Durable is one of the most accomplished options for UK dressage breeders.

Bred in the Netherlands by M.M.J. Bekkers, Durable has been competed throughout his career by Norfolk-based Nikki Barker (née Crisp), who took on the ride when he was six and has produced him to international grand prix level.

He’s by Spielberg TN – by Sandro Hit out of an Oldenburg damline – and his damsire Obelisk traces to one of the most respected Dutch breeding families. International dressage judge Isobel Wessels, who first judged him as a four-year-old when he won the young dressage horse final at Hartpury, describes him as having “all the ingredients to be a top horse” – combining ground-covering extensions with a “bouncy, closed canter” and the ability to “close and sit and take the weight behind” for piaffe and passage.

His progress as a sire is reflected in the latest Baileys Horse Feeds British Breeding Futurity all-time sire rankings, where – competing against international sires from across Europe – he has climbed from 100th to 35th position. That’s one of the biggest individual gains in the rankings.

His temperament – “incredibly soft, like riding liquid” in Nikki’s words – combined with his presence and power, makes him a strong choice for breeders looking to produce a quality grand prix dressage prospect.

Year of birth: 2008

Height: 178cm

Studbook: KWPN (AES licensed)

WFFS status: negative

Stud fee: £1350 + VAT

At stud with: Nikki Barker, Norfolk

For more information: phone +44 (0) 7775 811918

UK stallions at stud: showjumping

Billy Congo (Vechta x Animo)

One of British showjumping’s most successful homebred stallions of the modern era, Billy Congo combines a top-level competition record with a proven track record at stud – making him one of the most distinctive options available to UK breeders.

Under William Funnell, Billy Congo had a remarkable career on the international circuit. He was the most successful stallion on the 2013 Global Champions Tour, with second-place finishes at Monte Carlo and Cannes, and fourth at London. The same year, the pair took team gold at the European Championships in Herning. Other career highlights include wins in the CSI5* grand prix in Donetsk, the CSI3* grand prix in Lummen, and the 1.55m at Rome – plus a double-clear in the CSIO5* Hickstead Nations Cup.

He retired from top-level sport in 2019 after finishing second in the Queen Elizabeth II Cup at Hickstead the previous year. At stud, Billy Congo has proved as productive as he was in the arena. His offspring include Billy Buckingham (a 2018 WEG team horse and Hickstead Derby winner), Billy Fanta (FEI Young Riders gold with Samantha Cohen in 2019), and CCI4* eventers Billy Liffey, Billy Cuckoo and Billy Bandit. Known for his scope, technique and competitive spirit, he passes on the qualities that made him a star to the next generation.

Year of birth: 2001

Height: 168cm

Studbook: AES (approved)

WFFS status: negative

Stud fee: £600 + VAT

At stud with: The Billy Stud, Surrey (frozen semen via Rozel Breeding and Stallion AI Services)

For more information: visit thebillystud.co.uk

Copain Du Perchet (Conteur x Calypso II)

A genuine five-star competition stallion whose offspring are already showing they’ve inherited his ability, Copain Du Perchet CH is one of the most exciting established showjumping options for UK breeders.

Under Ireland’s Cian O’Connor, Copain Du Perchet won five-star classes in Dublin, Aachen, Falsterbo, Rotterdam, Villach and Treffen, with earlier success under Switzerland’s Edwin Smits. He went on to become a cornerstone of Emily Moffitt’s grand prix string at Poden Farms, jumping at the highest level on the international circuit and contesting Nations Cups at Dublin, Calgary, Gijón, and Al Ain. Lorenzo De Luca brought him out once more at the CSI4* in St Tropez before his retirement was announced in February 2023.

“It’s every girl’s dream to have such a beautiful horse like Copain,” Emily said at the time. “I remember seeing him for the first time and being in awe, and that feeling has never faded.”

He was lightly bred during his sport career, but his offspring are already making their mark – names to watch include Camillo du Perchet, Hermes du Perchet CH, Cullinan du Perchet, and Cassiopee Du Perchet. He comes from impeccable jumping lines, with his sire Conteur tracing to Contender, and his damsire Calypso II a renowned producer of international sport horses.

Year of birth: 2005

Height: 173cm

Studbook: CH (Swiss warmblood)

WFFS status: negative

Stud fee: from £700 + VAT

For more information: visit stallionai.co.uk

Golden Hawk (Vigo D’Arsouilles x Chin Chin)

One of British showjumping’s most successful international stallions in active sport, Golden Hawk has been a flag-bearer for Ireland’s Shane Breen and Hickstead-based Breen Equestrian on the world stage for over a decade.

A powerful, attractive stallion with elite AES grading, Golden Hawk has earned over £350,000 in prize money and has proved his quality across grand prix, Nations Cup, derby, puissance, six-bar and speed classes. Headline results include a win at the CSI5* London Olympia in 2018, the CSI5* Oslo grand prix the same year, the CSI4* Liverpool grand prix, and second in the 2022 Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby. He was also part of the third-placed team in the 2017 CSIO5* La Baule Coupe des Nations and finished second in the 2016 Dublin grand prix.

His sire Vigo d’Arsouilles took World Equestrian Games gold under Philippe Le Jeune in 2010, and his dam Ta Belle van Sombeke is a top breeding mare who jumped to 1.60m under Jos Lansink. She has produced multiple grand prix horses, including Glock’s London, Wabelle de Muze and Casimir de la Pomme.

Golden Hawk has excellent fertility rates and has sired more than 20 horses competing at 1.45m or above. His standout offspring include Scarteen and BE Golden (both competing internationally to 1.60m under Shane Breen), BE Golden Lynx (who jumped the Aachen Nations Cup in 2025), and Evita Van’t Zoggehof (ridden by Lorenzo De Luca).

Year of birth: 2005

Height: 167cm

Studbook: Belgian Warmblood

WFFS status: negative

Stud fee: £1,000 + VAT

For more information: visit breenequestrian.com

UK stallions at stud: eventing

Future Hepsilon (Upsilon x Heraldik xx)

The only licensed son of the record-breaking eventing stallion Upsilon standing in the UK, Future Hepsilon brings one of the most exciting young eventing pedigrees available to British breeders – and has already proven himself a versatile and competitive young horse in his own right.

By Nations Cup gold medallist Upsilon and out of a dam line that has also produced a Nations Cup gold medallist, Future Hepsilon is a unique combination of genetics from two of the most influential bloodlines in modern eventing. His sire Upsilon – by Canturo – is now an established producer of young horses and sired the back-to-back Young Event Horse World Champion Golden de Beliard. His damsire Heraldik xx, a thoroughbred, topped the WBFSH sire rankings for eventing for five consecutive years.

His own competition record is exceptional for his age. In 2022, he was one of only two horses in the UK to finish in the top 12 of all three British national five-year-old championships – the Burghley Young Event Horse, NexGen, and the BE CCI1*-S Young Horse Championship. He has also competed at newcomers in showjumping, with plans to move up to Foxhunter in 2026.

His dam line is impressive. The first four dams produced over 64 horses jumping at 1.40m or above – including Chanyon (sixth individually at the Tokyo Olympics), Ben Maher’s 1.50m horse Wintu, the Danish Nations Cup silver medallist HS Chaccophanie, Paul Schockemöhle’s stallion Qualdandro, and Embassy II (winner of over €1 million in prize money). From the same four-generation dam line comes Yasmin Ingham’s Nations Cup eventer Night Line, who placed 5th at Burnham Market CCI4* and 8th at Bicton 4* in 2021.

Year of birth: 2017

Height: 170cm

Studbook: AES

WFFS status: negative

Stud fee: £795 + VAT

At stud with: Future Sport Horses, East Yorkshire (semen via Stallion AI Services)

For more information: visit futuresporthorses.co.uk or phone Julia Hodkin on 07951 519 288 or 07775 633 004

Timolin (Totilas x Sion)

Bred at Catherston Stud, Timolin holds the highest scoring average of any horse or pony ever presented at the British Breeding Futurity three times. He was the overall highest-scoring dressage yearling in 2012 (9.38), reserve overall champion two-year-old in 2013 (9.34), and the highest-scoring three-year-old in 2014 (9.43) – a score that remains a record for a three-year-old dressage horse. He was also the Sport Horse Breeding of Great Britain stallion grading champion.

Under saddle, Timolin has competed successfully across multiple disciplines. As an event horse with Aimee Stunt, Gubby Leech, and Izzy Taylor (the latter standing in for the novice national championships at Gatcombe, where he finished sixth), he has competed to within one point of advanced. As a dressage horse, he progressed through the levels with Lizzie Murray to win at grand prix in 2023, with Charlotte Dicker now continuing his international career.

His standing as a sire is genuinely remarkable. In the latest Baileys Horse Feeds British Breeding Futurity all-time sire rankings, Timolin leads the eventing rankings and holds third position among the dressage sires – the only stallion to feature in the top of both lists.

He has over 26 Elite scores at the BEF Futurity, and standout offspring include Tremarl Timber (HOYS Price In-Hand Champion 2025), Tremarl Timpani (HOYS Riding Horse Champion 2025), Catherston Timeless (winning at grand prix), and Catherston Tuxedo (SHB-GB Stallion Grading Champion on a record 9.35, and the holder of the Futurity’s highest-ever score on 9.775).

Year of birth: 2011

Height: 170cm

Studbook: British Warmblood (BWBS, SHB-GB Champion, AESB, BHHS, Hannoverian Verband graded)

WFFS status: negative

Stud fee: £1,200 incl. VAT (chilled, frozen or natural/fresh; £150 collection fee)

At stud with: Catherston Stud, Over Wallop, Hampshire

For more information: visit catherstonstud.com or phone Jennie Loriston-Clarke MBE FBHS, Anne Dicker or Billy Moran on 01264 782 716

Future Guilty Pleasure (Levisonn x Cantoblanco)

One of the most exciting young eventing sires available to British breeders, Future Guilty Pleasure has already established himself as a triple national champion sire of futurity eventers – and is producing the kind of stock that British eventing breeders have been crying out for.

Future Guilty Pleasure was the national champion of the AES Stallion Licensing (from over 90 stallions inspected). As a competition horse himself, he progressed rapidly through the eventing levels – in his first full season in 2023, he went from BE100 to Intermediate and CCI2* in just three months, winning a BE100 on his dressage score of 18, finishing second at novice, third at intermediate, and 11th in his first CCI2*.

CCI5* eventer Alex Bragg has called him “naturally gifted for all disciplines.” His pedigree is built for the job. He’s by Levisonn — double champion of the Holsteiner Performance Test for both showjumping and dressage, and sire of 1.60m showjumpers and CCI5* eventers.

His damsire, Cantoblanco, was a Holstein champion stallion and a Bundeschampionat finalist. The dam line also traces back to Future Gold Digger, the highest-graded BEF event foal between 2005 and 2011 and a maternal sister to Olympic individual silver medallist and three-time Rolex Kentucky CCI5* winner Winsome Adante.

His progeny record is already exceptional for a stallion of his age. He has been a triple national champion sire of futurity eventers (with each of his first three crops), British Futurity Best Newcomer Sire 2019, and is now a sire of licensed stallions, Burghley Young Event Horse finalists, multiple British Breeding national champions, top-price auction lots, and elite Futurity eventers. His offspring have been competing successfully internationally, including in Australia and at Westfalen NA inspection sites.

Year of birth: 2016

Height: 168cm

Studbook: AES (Life Approved), SHB(GB) (Life Graded)

WFFS status: negative

Stud fee: £895 + VAT (fresh/chilled, with NFNF or LFG terms; frozen on a £395 booking + £500 28-day scan structure)

At stud with: Future Sport Horses, East Yorkshire (semen via Stallion AI Services)

For more information: visit futuresporthorses.co.uk or call 07951 519 288

Amiro Z (Amigo Toss xx x Ramiro Z)

With almost 70% thoroughbred blood, an international showjumping record to 1.45m, and an eventing-focused offspring profile already producing horses at four-star level, Amiro Z is one of the most exciting eventing-orientated stallions available to UK breeders.

Amiro Z jumped internationally to 1.45m, including qualifying for the Lanaken World Championships for six-year-olds in 2012. His sire Amigo Toss xx was an Argentinian thoroughbred brought into Zangersheide to add blood to Holsteiner lines, and his damsire is the legendary Ramiro Z – known as the “King of Sires,” with grand prix wins and Nations Cup appearances, jumping over 2.20m in puissance.

His damline is exceptional. His dam, Renomee Z, jumped at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games and the 1998 World Cup, and her full sister is Ratina Z – one of the most successful jumping horses of all time, with nearly €1 million in lifetime earnings, two Olympic team golds plus individual silver, double gold at the 1997 European Championships, and victory in the Aachen grand prix under Ludger Beerbaum.

Other relatives include international grand prix horses Comme Il Faut, Freedom Z and Crown Z. Amiro Z’s offspring are now making a significant impact at the highest eventing levels. His daughter, Caunton First Class, placed 16th at Blenheim with Sarah Bullimore. His son Corimiro placed first in two CCI2*, was the highest-placed British-bred at the eight- and nine-year-old CCI4*-S at Blenheim 2024, and went on to contest his first CCI4*-L at Boekelo – one of only five combinations to go clear inside the time.

His offspring are bold characters with good temperaments, inheriting their sire’s jump, power and rideability.

Year of birth: 2004

Height: 170cm

Studbook: Zangersheide (Z)

WFFS status: negative

Stud fee: £1,000 + VAT (booking fee £250 + VAT, pregnancy fee £750 + VAT payable 1 October)

At stud with: Elite Stallions

For more information: elitestallions.co.uk

UK stallions at stud: showing, natives and ponies

Turberry Top Cat (Cusop Dimension out of Caterina (by Kilvington Scoundrel))

A quality 138cm part-bred Arab (PBA) stallion with a strong show ring CV, Turberry Top Cat is an excellent option for breeders looking to produce children’s show ponies – including those wanting horses eligible for Arab Horse Society registration.

Turberry Top Cat was the National Pony Society (NPS) Young Stallion Award winner in 2014, the NPS Stallion Awards winner in 2017, and finished fifth overall in the NPS Stallion Awards the same year.

Described by his stud as oozing quality, with a “fabulous turn of front, exquisite head, lovely conformation and an outstanding mover,” he produces stock with the elegance and quality demanded in the show ring. His dam, Caterina, was second at the Royal International Horse Show as a ridden show pony – a damline pedigree credit worth noting for showing breeders.

He is registered PBA 30% Arab blood, meaning all his offspring are eligible for registration with the Arab Horse Society. He is a full brother to Turberry Tom Kitten, who stood at Stanley Grange Stud for two seasons before being exported to Australia.

Year of birth: 2009

Height: 138cm

Studbook: Part-bred Arab (PBA 30%)

Stud fee: £550 from frozen, £650 for chilled

At stud with: Millbry Hill Stud, North Yorkshire

For more information: email office@millbryhillstud.co.uk

Skellorn Bronze Soldier (Skellorn Prince Consort out of Burside Penny Black (by Rotherwood Beechnut))

A standout Welsh section B stallion of his generation, Skellorn Bronze Soldier represents one of the most distinguished British Welsh pony breeding programmes – and gives breeders access to some of the section’s most respected old bloodlines.

A homebred for Kerry Wainwright at the Cheshire-based Skellorn Stud – founded by Kerry’s grandfather Les Wainwright in the 1960s – Soldier has been a flag-bearer for the operation for over a decade. Under regular handler Stuart Mason, he was crowned Welsh section champion at the Royal Welsh in 2019 – the ultimate accolade for any Welsh breeder. He has now qualified for the Price Family Supreme In-Hand final at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) five times, equalling the qualification record of Castle Emperor and bettered only by Rosslyn Sweet Repose.

He has also proved his breeding influence, jointly topping the Royal Welsh sire ratings in 2022. His son Skellorn Royal Anniversary won at the Royal International Horse Show 2025 under Tori Oakes – one of a relatively small group of offspring on the ground, given his sparing use at stud.

Soldier’s pedigree traces to many of the most influential names in Welsh section B breeding – Solway Master Bronze, Gredington Tiwlip, Downland Chevalier and Kirby Cane Pilgrim – making him a strong outcross option for British Welsh pony breeders.

Year of birth: 2007

Height: 134cm

Studbook: Welsh Pony and Cob Society (Section B)

Stud fee: From £300

At stud with: Skellorn Stud (Kerry Wainwright), Adlington, Cheshire

For more information: email skellornstud@hotmail.com or phone 01625 572356

Tiger Attack (Dolphin Supreme x The Outlaw)

A versatile sport horse stallion with a stellar competition record across in-hand, eventing, dressage and working hunter, Tiger Attack is one of the most exciting options at Hampshire’s renowned Catherston Stud – and a strong choice for breeders looking to produce a quality sport horse with significant blood.

A homebred for Billy Moran, Tiger Attack made his name first in the in-hand ring, winning the Ottergale Supreme three years running, the £1,000 North of England Supreme two years running, and the Martin Wood £1,000 Supreme final. He qualified for the Cuddy in-hand finals as a two-, three- and four-year-old.

Under saddle from his five-year-old season, he took to eventing “like a duck to water” – winning the Southern combined training championship, the Hartpury five-year-old young event horse qualifier, and the Dauntsey Park regional final, before completing the Badminton Grassroots final with a clear cross-country round and a top-20 finish. He has also competed successfully in British Dressage (qualifying for the regionals) and in showjumping, while continuing to win in the show ring (Royal Windsor flat sport horse class, 2018).

Standout progeny include three-time Royal Windsor winner Stage Diva; HOYS, RIHS and Royal Windsor champion Ladies Man; Price Family Supreme In-Hand winner and reserve champion Tiger Cub; and the promising Tiger Feet.

He passes on his quality of head, turn of front, elegant movement and excellent temperament. Standing at over 60% thoroughbred blood with 9.5 inches of bone, he is a strong option for breeders looking to add blood while retaining substance.

Year of birth: 2012

Height: 165cm

Studbook: Sport Horse Breeding GB (graded); registered NPS and Sport Horse Ireland (entry level)

Stud fee: £800 frozen

At stud with: Catherston Stud, Over Wallop, Hampshire

For more information: visit catherstonstud.com or phone Jennie Loriston-Clarke MBE FBHS, Anne Dicker or Billy Moran on 01264 782 716

Frequently asked questions about UK stallions at stud

How do I book a covering with a UK stallion?

Most UK studs require a nomination form and a booking fee before semen can be dispatched or a mare can visit. Each stud operates on its own terms – some on a no foal, no fee (NFNF) basis, others on a live foal guarantee (LFG), and others on a non-refundable booking fee plus a pregnancy fee paid later in the year. Contact the stud or owner directly to discuss their specific arrangements, lead times, and any veterinary requirements for your mare.

What’s the difference between fresh, chilled and frozen semen?

Fresh semen is collected and used immediately – typically when the mare visits the stud or the stallion is on the same yard. Chilled semen is collected and transported the same day, with insemination usually within 24 to 48 hours. Frozen semen is preserved in liquid nitrogen and can be stored indefinitely, meaning it can be shipped internationally and used at any time. Fresh and chilled semen generally have higher conception rates, but frozen semen offers more flexibility – particularly for international breeding.

How do I choose the right stallion for my mare?

Consider your mare’s bloodlines, conformation, temperament, and competitive record alongside what you’re hoping to produce. A heavier mare may benefit from a stallion that brings blood and refinement; a sharper mare from a calmer, more rideable type. Look at the stallion’s offspring competing at the level you’re aiming for, and consider their temperament and trainability. Many stallion owners are happy to discuss whether their stallion is a good match for your particular mare – and the studs and owners featured in this guide are no exception.

What is WFFS, and why does it matter when choosing a stallion?

WFFS (Warmblood Fragile Foal Syndrome) is a recessive genetic disorder identified in the warmblood horse population. A foal that inherits the gene from both parents – meaning both the stallion and the mare are carriers – is born with severely fragile skin and joint connective tissue and typically doesn’t survive. Carriers themselves (horses with only one copy of the gene) are completely unaffected and live and compete normally. WFFS is specifically a warmblood concern: studies suggest around 7-12% of the warmblood population carries the gene, while it’s effectively unknown in native breeds. Responsible breeders test their mares for WFFS before using a stallion, and a covering should only be undertaken when at least one parent is confirmed negative. If both parents carry the gene, there’s a 25% chance the foal will be affected. All the stallions in this guide are confirmed WFFS-negative, meaning they’re safe to use on any mare – including untested mares. Where a stallion is a carrier, breeders should test their mares and only proceed if the mare is confirmed negative.

What is a sire ranking and why does it matter?

Sire rankings – such as the Baileys Horse Feeds British Breeding Futurity rankings and the WBFSH (World Breeding Federation for Sport Horses) rankings – measure a stallion’s overall breeding influence by tracking how his offspring perform in competition. A stallion who consistently produces high-scoring offspring will rise up the rankings. These rankings give breeders an objective measure of a stallion’s performance beyond his own competition record and can be a useful signal of whether his offspring are genuinely making their mark.

What’s the difference between AES, BWBS, KWPN and other studbooks?

Each studbook is a breed registry with its own standards for approval, inspection and grading. AES (Anglo European Studbook) and BWBS (British Warmblood Breeders Society) are British-based, while KWPN (Royal Dutch Sport Horse), Hanoverian, Oldenburg and Holstein are European studbooks with strong UK breeder bases. A stallion may be approved by multiple studbooks, meaning his progeny can be registered with several societies.

Can I use frozen semen from a UK stallion overseas?

Yes – frozen semen is the standard option for international breeding, and most UK studs ship internationally. Post-Brexit, additional health certification and customs paperwork are required for export to the EU, which the stud or its agent (often Stallion AI Services for many of the stallions featured in this guide) will arrange. Lead times and costs vary, so it’s worth contacting the stud well in advance of when you need the semen.

What should I ask a stud before booking a covering?

Useful questions include: What’s the stud fee structure (NFNF, LFG, or split)? What’s the chilled or frozen availability? What are the shipping costs and lead times? What health screening has the stallion had (WFFS, PSSM1, OCD)? Has the stallion’s semen been tested for fertility? Are there concessions for mares with proven competition records? What’s the typical conception rate? Don’t be afraid to ask – established studs and experienced owners want to make sure the match is right too.

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British Equestrian (BEF) has published its 2025 “state of the nation” report, the third annual overview of the sector. The report takes in research and information from the BEF, its member bodies, partners and other organisations in sport, health and education.

“This year’s report is evidence that equestrianism has reached a pivotal moment, with participation and social impact evidence on the rise,” the report states. “Equestrian activities deliver significant health, wellbeing and inclusion benefits, while reaching groups often underrepresented in other sports.

“But it also highlights real pressures, with rising costs and fewer local facilities restricting growth and accessibility, as well as increasing welfare and social licence scrutiny.

“The message is clear – equestrianism matters more than ever, but protecting its future will require care, investment and clear evidence of the positive impact horses have on people’s lives.”

The report found that equestrian participation and engagement continue to grow. There has been a 16% increase in BEF member body members, for example, to 295,965 in total, and a 21% increase in social media followers, to more than 2.3m people. But equestrian businesses, charities and the workforce are under pressure.

“Rising operating costs and workforce challenges continue to impact riding establishments and community facilities, threatening local access if not addressed,” the report states.

Social value

A big focus in the BEF state of the nation report 2025 is on social value; H&H reported that major BEF “power of horses” research had found that equestrianism generates £1.2bn in social value every year.

BEF insight and research manager Abbie Bevan, who spoke about the social value research at the launch event last year and highlighted the need to communicate this value to Government, told H&H the picture is overall a positive one.

“This is a retrospective of last year and we can only take it year by year, but at the moment it’s showing there’s a lot of opportunity across the federation with our member bodies,” she said. “That’s what the power of horses research showed us. When we align a lot of the findings of that and the work that’s done in riding schools, there’s a huge amount of opportunity for us to align with Government agendas, on health, wellbeing and social connection.

“This is a reflection on what has been but with the idea of helping us navigate forward as well.”

Ms Bevan explained that it can be difficult to keep up with all the different research and work being carried out; pulling it together helps keep the sector on track and relevant, and to compare equestrianism to other sports and wider trends.

“There are elements of keeping us accountable, but also giving us a bit of a direction; what areas could we focus on next and are there opportunities for us to learn from other sports?” she said.

The BEF state of the nation report sets out the evidence of equestrianism’s relevance to society and the need to protect the sector through “collaboration, investment and improved insight”.

Ms Bevan said that as well as ongoing work with its funders and investors, the BEF is working internally and with specialists to put together its requests to the Government.

BEF state of the nation: work goes on

“There’s a lot of work going on behind closed doors at the moment, but exciting things are to come; that’s essentially the summary,” she said.

The BEF is also working towards its next Sport England funding cycle and “constantly improving” data collection, including research on the workforce.

“Looking ahead, British Equestrian will continue to harness the power of evidence, by developing research and data to better understand the sector and support year-on-year tracking of participation, workforce sustainability, welfare and social impact,” a BEF spokesperson said.

“Set against national evidence of declining physical activity, widening inequalities and growing pressures on health and education systems, the report demonstrates how equestrian activity can contribute to preventative healthcare, social connection and positive life outcomes across all ages.”

BEF head of development and inclusion Rebecca Gibson added that the report shows equestrianism’s status as “far more than a sport”.

“The evidence demonstrates its ability to deliver meaningful social value, improve wellbeing and reach people who are often missed by other forms of physical activity,” she said. “By placing data and insight at the heart of our work, we can better protect the future of the sector, support our communities and ensure horses continue to enrich lives across the UK.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Research proves horses make people’s lives better – with a social value of £1.2bn

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Researchers at the University of Liverpool explored the experiences of 52 yard managers and managers around yard set-up and management and how decisions are made regarding horse wellbeing.

The study, published in CABI’s Human-Animal Interactions journal, highlighted the “complexity of livery yard management with each yard functioning as a unique ecosystem based on a balance of independent factors including the management of horses, clients, land, business and facilities”.

“Livery yards were frequently run from a desire to work with horses, and this shaped the yard managers’ provision of services and care,” said the authors.

“While yards were organised around the physical tasks of looking after horses, participants suggested that the core of their workload was, in fact, related to the organisational and emotional work of managing clients and horses. This included negotiating around interspecies individual needs, managing disagreements and building relationships. Collectively, this required complex organisation and emotional labour.”

Lead researcher Tamzin Furtado told H&H she came away with a “huge amount of sympathy” for yard owners and managers – and said a takeaway is that there needs to be more support and professionalism for yard owners and “respect for it as an industry”.

“There are so many things that just fall to yard owners and managers, without any of us knowing about it,” she said, giving examples of assisting with euthanasia decisions or “extreme scenarios” such as being shouted at by liveries and having horses “dumped on them”.

“A lot of the work yard managers described went unrecognised, and working conditions which we just wouldn’t accept in other situations. They were trying to manage all these difficult situations, while managing their own work-life balance and the costs of running the yard and many described basically subsidising the yard themselves,” she said.

“It’s hard, we’re in a changing world where things are more expensive, we’ve got more horses, less land, winters are getting worse. We need to understand yard managers better and understand why certain decisions might be difficult for them.”

Ms Furtado added that Chery Johns of LiveryList is doing a “phenomenal job of plugging the gap” and providing a community for yard owners.

Ms Johns told H&H she is pleased to see the work highlight the fact yard management is “far more complex than it often looks”.

“Decisions made on yards can directly affect welfare outcomes, standards of care and the experience of horses and clients in an unregulated industry,” she said.

“It’s encouraging to see the role being recognised properly for what it is; a skilled, responsible and often demanding job that plays a vital role within the industry – and one that needs the right level of support to maintain standards and strengthen the sector.”

Sarah Dale, British Horse Society (BHS) head of approved centres, told H&H the society welcomes this “important study that highlights the challenges and complexities faced by livery yard owners and managers”.

“These businesses are central to equine welfare and the wider equestrian community, so improving understanding of the pressures they face is vital in helping create better outcomes for both people and horses,” she said, adding that the BHS supports livery yards becoming licensed in the future.

“We recognise that running a yard requires far more than excellent horsemanship. Owners and managers are balancing business pressures, client relationships, staffing challenges and ever-changing operational demands, often all at once.”

The BHS offers support for approved centres, including advice from regional business support managers on topics including business and pricing strategies; marketing and mental health; as well as access to professional helplines, networking events and vouchers towards training courses and professional development.

“Studies like this reinforce the importance of continuing to invest in meaningful support for yard owners and managers, who remain at the heart of a healthy and sustainable equestrian industry,” said Ms Dale.

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2026, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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One commercial breeding operation estimates that the cost of breeding a horse and keeping it to three years old sits at around £15,000 – before backing and production costs are added.

Breeding soundness examinations

Whether you’re sending your mare to stud for natural covering, taking her to an AI (artificial insemination) centre, or having your vet inseminate her with chilled semen in her own stable, the pre-breeding checks she needs are essentially the same. The mare doesn’t have to travel for the disease risks to apply – semen and equipment do – and a vet performing AI at your yard will want to see the same negative swabs and certificates that a stallion stud would ask for.

Before any mare is bred, she needs what vets call a breeding soundness examination – essentially a full pre-breeding MOT. It’s a catch-all term for the checks your vet runs to confirm she’s healthy, free from infection, and physically capable of conceiving and carrying a foal.

It says nothing about her quality as a riding horse or her temperament; it’s purely a check on her reproductive health. Done properly and in good time, it protects your mare, any other horses she may come into contact with, and your investment.

Why swabbing matters when preparing a mare for breeding

Venereal bacteria – those passed between horses at covering, or carried on semen and equipment during AI – are the single biggest infectious risk to a breeding operation. They can quietly reduce fertility, are awkward to treat, and one of them, the organism that causes contagious equine metritis (CEM), is notifiable in the UK, meaning vets are legally required to report it.

A confirmed case can shut down movement on and off a stud entirely.

Three bacteria are of particular concern: the CEM organism itself, and two others called Klebsiella and Pseudomonas. All three are covered by the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) annually updated Codes of Practice – voluntary guidelines that apply to all breeds of horse and pony, not just thoroughbreds, and the standard reference that most reputable studs and AI vets will expect mares to have been tested against.

Mares and stallions can carry any of them with no outward signs at all, which is exactly why swabbing isn’t optional.

Swabs are taken by your vet from the clitoral area (and, separately, from the lining of the uterus when the mare is in season). They’re then tested at an HBLB-approved laboratory by bacterial culture, PCR (polymerase chain reaction), or both. PCR, which detects bacterial DNA directly rather than waiting for a culture to grow, is now widely used alongside traditional culture.

A few practical points worth knowing:

• Swabs must be taken after 1 January of the breeding season in which the mare will be covered or inseminated. A negative result from the previous year doesn’t carry over.
• Clitoral swabs can be taken at any time and from pregnant mares, including before foaling.
• Endometrial (uterine) swabs must be taken when the mare is in season, because the cervix needs to be open.
• Allow at least seven days for results. If something positive turns up, you’ll need time to treat the mare and re-swab before breeding goes ahead.
• Get the testing done in good time. If your mare is travelling, that means before she leaves home; if she’s being inseminated at the yard, it means before the semen arrives. Either way, no certificate means no breeding.

Once everything comes back clear, the mare is issued with a laboratory certificate confirming her status for the current season – the BEVA mare certificate is the standard document. No reputable stallion stud will cover a mare without seeing it, and no reputable vet will inseminate one either.

EVA and the wider disease picture

Equine viral arteritis (EVA) is the other infection every breeder needs to think about. Mares should be blood-tested for EVA after 1 January and within 28 days of covering, and stallions must also be EVA-free – a point that matters just as much when you’re using imported semen as when you’re sending your mare to a UK stud.

The 2019 UK outbreaks were a reminder that the virus doesn’t only affect Thoroughbreds, and recent disruption to vaccine supply has made surveillance and biosecurity even more important. Talk to your vet about current testing recommendations for both your mare and the stallion you’re using.

Equine herpesvirus, strangles and other infectious diseases are also covered in the HBLB Codes, and any responsible stud or vet will expect mares to be up to date on flu and tetanus vaccinations as a minimum.

For some breeds, there’s an additional layer of pre-breeding screening to think about. As Rebecca Hamilton-Fletcher MRCVS of Endell Equine Hospital previously told H&H, “further tests [may be needed] if there’s a risk she’s a carrier of a breed-specific inheritable condition, such as hoof wall separation disease in Connemaras.” Your vet or breed society will know what applies.

The physical examination when preparing a mare for breeding

Swabs are only half the picture when preparing a mare for breeding. Your vet should also give the mare a thorough physical check before breeding goes ahead.

Externally, the focus is on the vulva, which provides the first line of defence against infection ascending into the uterus. If the vulval lips don’t form a good seal – common in older mares, those in poor condition, or mares with poor conformation – air, dirt and bacteria can be drawn in.

A short procedure called a Caslick’s operation can fix it: the vet stitches the upper part of the vulva closed under local anaesthetic, leaving a small opening at the bottom for normal urination. It’s a routine job that prevents a lot of larger problems.

Internally, the vet examines the ovaries, uterus and cervix by rectal palpation, almost always combined with ultrasound. The vagina and cervix are also examined visually using a speculum. Hamilton-Fletcher recommends “a full gynaecological examination of the external genitalia and the cervix for conformation and health, and an ultrasound examination of the uterus and ovaries to look for cysts, tumours and other abnormalities that might suggest breeding complications”.

Cervical damage – usually tearing or scarring from a previous difficult foaling – is one of the things they’re looking for, because it directly affects the mare’s ability to conceive and carry.

Ultrasound will also pick up uterine cysts and free fluid. Cysts can interfere with conception and embryo monitoring; fluid in the uterus needs to be cleared before breeding.

For mares being inseminated at home or at an AI centre, ultrasound has a second job: tracking the mare’s cycle so that insemination is timed as close to ovulation as possible. Chilled and frozen semen both have a short window of effectiveness, so the scanning becomes part of the routine, not an optional extra.

In some cases – particularly with older mares, mares with a history of pregnancy loss, or mares whose history is unknown – your vet may recommend a uterine biopsy. A small sample of the uterine lining is examined under the microscope, and the degree of scarring (fibrosis) it shows is one of the best predictors we have of whether the mare is likely to carry a foal to term. For a heavily fibrotic uterus, the honest answer may be that breeding isn’t worth pursuing.

Hygiene and the human factor

It’s easy to focus on the mare and forget that bacteria travel on hands, equipment and clothing too. Disposable gloves, changed between every horse, separate sterile equipment for each animal, and clean water are basic requirements wherever breeding work is happening. Reputable studs run tight protocols; ask about them if you’re new to a yard.

Plan early, save money later

The single most useful thing an owner can do when preparing a mare for breeding is start the conversation with their vet in good time – ideally in late autumn or early winter for a spring covering. That gives you room to swab, blood-test, address any conformational or uterine issues, get the Caslick’s done if needed, and have certificates in hand before the stud or AI vet asks for them.

Breeding will always involve a degree of luck. The preparation is where you give yourself the best possible chance.

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