It is well known that our roads are getting busier and busier, making riding horses on the road more and more dangerous. Horse riders have as much right to use the roads as anyone else and should be able to enjoy riding without fear from other road users. According the British Horse Society figures, each... Read more »
Once you have made the decision to buy a horse, it is advisable to identify a vet that can carry out a pre-purchase examination of the horse. Not only will this give you peace of mind, but your insurance company will also very likely request a copy of a recent pre-purchase examination certificate prior to... Read more »
Regular pasture management ensures your horse's grazing remains in good nutritional condition; it is also one of the main ways of achieving effective parasite control in your horse. Effective pasture management, along with faecal egg count monitoring and use of a regular deworming programme, should ensure your horse benefits from nutritious grazing and remains free from internal... Read more »
Horse and pony ownership is a costly business and carries with it a weight of responsibility, whether your involvement is purely pleasure, is competitive or is commercial. You may own a livery yard, riding stables or stud. Insurance is a service. It exists to help protect you, the owner, against the unpredictable costs that can... Read more »
It is not easy for a horse owner, who has not been specifically trained, to make sure that his or her horse's saddle fits properly or to more than suspect that it is causing trouble. What problems can a poorly fitting saddle cause? Common history patterns Some types of horse, e.g. those with 'high' withers... Read more »
Routine exercise is very important for you and your horse. General exercise and mental stimulation helps to keep you and your horse fit and happy. A combination of schooling, riding out, jumping and going to shows will keep your horse active and mentally interested in what he is being asked to do. Why do I need... Read more »
When a pre-purchase examination cannot be performed by a qualified equine vet, following these guidelines for examining a horse at an auction. What do I need to know? Unlike buying a horse privately, where you can view the horse and then make a decision after careful thought over the course of a day or two,... Read more »
Day-to-day management of your horse is very important. There are many factors that horse owners must consider to ensure their horse's health and safety. Vigilance towards these factors is essential for a beginner and the experienced owner. What factors ensure good day-to-day equine management? Important factors to consider when looking after your horse include, stable... Read more »
Before you think about clipping your horse you need to establish why and ultimately what sort of clip you need to give your horse. Clipping ensures your horse remains healthy and comfortable. Make sure you know when you should start clipping your horse and continue to maintain his clip for the correct period of time.... Read more »
Owning a horse is a big responsibility that requires great commitment, time and money. Before buying a horse or pony you need to make sure you can provide everything your horse needs. Buying a horse is a time-consuming and lengthy process. You will need to do some research and visit different horses before you make... Read more »