Hagyard is dedicated to providing the highest level of care through its consistent development and adoption of advanced diagnostic and treatment modalities. This commitment is exemplified by pioneering imaging techniques like the full PET scan in partnership with Churchill Downs, offering a more efficient alternative to traditional methods for precise and timely diagnoses. Hagyard also accepts referrals from equine veterinarians nationwide, ensuring broad access to its innovative treatments for horses of all types.

CareCredit’s commitment to expanding access to care, through finance solutions that help clients manage the costs associated with advanced veterinary services, has directly contributed to improved client retention for Hagyard. Hagyard clients utilize the CareCredit health and wellness credit card for critical procedures like colic surgery and advanced imaging services, notably MRI, supporting horse owners in pursuing comprehensive care. This enhanced accessibility and broader range of options are particularly impactful in retaining clients during the transition from field care to in-clinic services for advanced diagnostics and emergency/critical care.

“Hagyard is incredibly proud of its 150-year history and dedication to innovation in the equine industry,” said Ken Ford, CEO, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. “Our commitment to pushing the boundaries of veterinary medicine is deeply intertwined with the support of partners like CareCredit. Their financial solutions empower horse owners to access the cutting-edge treatments we offer, ensuring the best possible outcomes for their horses.”

Synchrony’s commitment to the equine industry extends beyond financing solutions, as it actively engages in research to inform horse owners about the true costs of care, highlighted in its Equine Lifetime of Care study. This research reveals that while many horse owners believe they are financially prepared, actual lifetime costs can significantly exceed expectations, particularly for unexpected veterinary needs such as colic or orthopedic injuries, which can range up to $10,000.

“At Synchrony, we are deeply committed to supporting innovation in the equine veterinary space,” said Boo Larsen, General Manager of Veterinary Industry, Synchrony. “Our partnership with Hagyard exemplifies this dedication, helping to enable horse owners to say ‘yes’ to innovative care. By providing flexible financing options, we empower veterinarians to deliver the highest quality of care and ensure horses receive the treatments they deserve.”

For more than 35 years, CareCredit has been a valuable financing option for all types of veterinary services, treatments, and diagnostics at locations in its network, giving animal caregivers peace of mind that they are ready to care for their animals throughout their lifetime. CareCredit is accepted at more than 27,000 veterinary practices and all public university veterinary schools in the U.S. For more information, please visit www.carecredit.com.

— Edited Press Release

The post Synchrony’s CareCredit Marks Nearly 20 Years with Hagyard Equine Medical Institute appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Hosting groups on sleigh rides is one of the Sharps’ favorite ways to introduce people to the exciting world of horses. The Sharp family purchased their land in 2018, moved into their farmhouse in 2020, and have been running a year-round horsemanship program ever since. Noel, age 17, is an integral part of the business alongside her younger brother and sister.

“I grew up giving wagon and sleigh rides with my family within the horse program that my dad managed,” says Erin. “I loved it as a kid. Jonathan and I wanted our kids to be able to learn and enjoy the world of farming and horsemanship, while making the world of harness horses available for everyone to enjoy!”

A Day in the Life at Haven Pines

Managing a farm and horsemanship business in all seasons is no small feat. The Northwoods region regularly experiences low temperatures in the negative teens, feet of snow, heat waves, and plenty of rain. Maintaining healthy horses in dynamic weather takes the entire family to be successful.

During a typical day of sleigh rides, Erin and Noel manage the driving horses while the rest of the Sharp family works to prepare the campfire, hot chocolate, warm blankets, and guest check-in process.

“We want guests to feel like they get to experience our farm as if they’re a member of our family,” says Erin. “Letting guests get to know the horses is a top priority for us. First, because our teams love the people, and secondly, because it’s so cool to get to know the horses that are the power behind the whole experience.”

Meet the Horses

In addition to their horses that are used for traditional English and western riding lessons, they have a string of driving horses.

“Oak and Maple, 5- and 6-year-old Belgian mares, are the stars of our 12-person sleigh,” says Noel. “Their kind and friendly personalities make them easy to love.”

Driving horses of all sizes call Haven Pines home, including a Shetland Pony gelding named Sampson, a Pony of the Americas gelding named Jack, and a Haflinger/Belgian cross named Randy.

Finding horses suitable for the work of sleigh rides is critical at Haven Pines. Pulling sleighs through snow is physically and mentally demanding work.

“The horse’s mind is the first thing I look at [when horse shopping],” Erin says. “Can the horse mentally live and work safely and happily in the environment I know will be waiting in my program? If the answer is yes, the second thing I look at is physical soundness. If the horse can pass a pre-purchase exam by a veterinarian, the third component is financial. Our equine programs must be self-sustaining. Ultimately, a prospective horse must be friendly, curious, forgiving, and healthy.”

Young Entrepreneur

Noel loves spending time with her family in the horsemanship business. She grew up working with horses alongside her mom, and now often drives Oak and Maple on sleigh routes.

“We always like to have two people with the draft team to make sure we can tackle anything that needs to be done while always having a driver at the lines,” Erin explains.

Since she’s still in school, Noel must balance learning and homework with farm work.

“The balance isn’t easy, but it’s worth it to do it for the guests,” she says. “Because I’m homeschooled, my education can support learning how to operate a business.”

On top of sleigh rides, Noel is involved in teaching riding lessons, doing chores, and managing her own herd of Nigerian Dwarf goats.

“One of my favorite parts of sleigh rides is working with the horses, and seeing how meaningful being around the horses is to our guests,” she says.

Keeping it Safe

Even when faced with challenges such as a record low snowfall in the winter of 2023-2024, the Sharps continue to invest in relationships with people and animals.

“Every sleigh ride business is unique, and learning what the exact perfect fit is has been a learning process,” says Erin. “We’ve had to deal with icy conditions, equipment breaking down, and other common issues that come with the territory of running a farm and managing livestock. Safety is a top priority for humans and horses. Our horses wear shoes with Borium cleats in the winter to ensure they can maintain good footing. We also conduct regular safety checks on harnesses, wagons, sleighs, and trails.”

Only rarely do the Sharps have to cancel sleigh rides due to inclement weather. The Northwoods is known for long, cold winters. As long as there is quality snow, sleigh ride trails can be maintained to be beautiful and safe, and caring for people and horses goes hand in hand at Haven Pines.

Learn more on the Havens Pine website.

This article about Haven Pines family sleigh rides appeared in the November/December 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Haven Pines: A Family Sleigh Ride Business appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Hay Chix Buckle Safety Covers

I’ve been a huge fan of this company for years, both for the quality of products and their customer service. I have their hay nets in all of my stalls. But I do blanket, and the issue of buckles getting caught in nets has always been a concern. The crew at Hay Chix has come up with an easy and cost-effective solution: a pack of 12 buckle covers (in three different sizes) that easily Velcro over blanket buckles to lessen the chance of getting stuck. They’re super sturdy, the different size options have worked on all of my different blanket brands, and they’re super easy-on-easy-off. These make great gifts for barn friends—and you may as well pick up a pack or two for your own stocking.

Shop for $20 on haychix.com.

Always Remember: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, the Horse, and the Storm by Charley Mackesy

If you are an equestrian who has not yet heard of the British artist Charlie Mackesy, do your heart a service and check him out. His latest book Always Remember is the sequel to his first—The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse—and like its predecessor, is a gorgeous combination of beautifully-minimalist illustrations and simple, yet profound life lessons on friendship, kindness and resiliency. The messages in Always Remember brought me to tears, and I bought three copies for my dearest friends for the holidays… and caved and gave one early to a friend who I thought could use its inspiration sooner. This book is a work of art, and a gorgeous gift for just about anyone on your list.

Shop for $18.88 for the hardcover book on Amazon, or visit Mackesy’s website for originals, prints, cards, and other gorgeous gifts.

Venustas Fleece Heated Vest and More

Venustas is a newer competitor to the heated clothing market that’s definitely worth a look. I’ve been wearing their women’s heated fleece vest all fall and have been thrilled with the quality and the fit. It’s more tapered and less boxy than others I’ve tried—the most flattering heated vest I’ve come across. In fall temps, it’s great as an outer layer on its own, or layer it under a heavier coat during the coldest weather. It has three heat settings, and the battery life is long; I cranked it to the highest setting for the bulk of a chilly campfire and it kept me warm all night. The heating elements all the way up the neck made a really toasty difference. The company also has heated sweatshirts, jackets, gloves, and socks, so they’ve got gift options in a variety of price ranges so you can check off lots of loved ones on your list!

Shop on venustas.com.

Art by Willow – Custom Embellished Horse Prints

How many of us would love to own—or to gift—a custom horse portrait but are hampered by the cost? Most of us? I met the lovely Willow Barnes at the All-American Quarter Horse Congress in Ohio and she’s come up with a genius, and gorgeous, way to cut the cost of a custom without sacrificing quality: embellished horse prints. Using photos of your horse, she selects a base print—high-quality prints of her own paintings—in the color that best matches your horse, then customizes it by hand, adding markings, matching colors, etc.

She took these chestnut base prints and customized them to my Palomino gelding, Moose, and they’re spot-on. Right now, her base prints are stock horse builds, but the reception she’s received to this idea has been so positive that she’s hoping to branch out to other breed types in the future. This would be a lovely gift for barn owners, trainers, or dear horse friends that they’ll cherish for years to come.

Starting at $111 on artbywillow.com.

Horse Education Company – Hybrid Halters

Horse Education Company is another company I’ve loved for a while. My bulldozer of a Fjord has had a HEC hybrid halter for years and I love the extra control from the front knots paired with the ease of regular halter features for things like leading and tying. We upgraded this fall to the Classic Leather Hybrid Halter ($136) with a custom name plate and matching lead, and—unsurprisingly—found it brought the same level of extra control in a stunning leather look with impeccable craftsmanship. This will definitely be our going-out-into-the-world halter, and would make a great gift for anyone who likes the added control of a rope halter with the ease of a traditional one.

Starting at $45 on shop.horseeducation.com. 

The Original Muck Boot Company – Women’s Arctic Sport II

I’ve been a big fan of Muck Boots for years, and was in need of some new tall, insulated winter boots for working around the barn. These Arctic Sport II’s are really comfortable and very warm, and their neoprene is totally muck-resistant. They’re soft and flexible right out of the box, and the top has extra stretch (in really cute plaids) to hug your calf and keep out the cold. I went trick-or-treating in them (with my son the astronaut and Penelope the rocket ship) the day they arrived and they were so comfortable for our 1+ mile walk. Now we’re knee-deep (almost literally) in mud-season and these are my go-to for morning chores through night check. Put these on your own wish lists this year!

Staring at $135 (dependent on height) on muckbootcompany.com. 

Kristen Kolenda Yoga for Equestrians – Monthly Membership

A unique, useful gift for the best of your barn friends just might be a monthly membership to Kristen Kolenda Yoga for Equestrians. You get so much from membership, including a comprehensive video library with over 100 videos (with new content added regularly) sorted into categories and lengths to fit a variety of needs. The video library includes everything from 5-minute mini-sessions to 75-minute intensive studies into different skills and focuses. And there’s something for the very newest yogis to more advanced students. There are also options for online live classes and an active and supportive online community. This gift would be perfect for a friend who could use a little zen, or who would be interested in exploring how the practice of yoga could positively impact their riding.

Sign up for $35/month here.

Melissa and Doug Take-Along Show Horse Stable

This simple little barn, with its wooden stable and eight colorful steeds has been a favorite of my 4-year-old son since he received it two Christmases ago. The littlest of hands will love sliding ponies in and out of their stalls (when you turn them around, they can peer out the barn window). Slightly older kiddos will love more imaginative play. And with the realistic colors and coat patterns like palomino, Paint, gray, Appaloosa, and more, you, too, can have a toddler who knows the difference between a chestnut and a bay! This is also a great addition to the lounge of any barn that caters to little kids.

Shop for $41.99 (currently on sale for $21.99) on Amazon.

Kiel James Patrick – Highland Fox Sweater and More

I’d been eyeing these wool-blend fox sweaters from Kiel James Patrick, wondering whether they were worth the hype and the price tag. Turns out they are! They’re high quality, the colors are gorgeous, and the wool is so soft and warm. They’ve got several fox options (pullover and cardigan-style sweaters) as well as some adorable fox socks, and a children’s line that’s just adorable. Their entire collection is worth a look.

Shop on kieljamespatrick.com.

This article about Small Business Saturday equestrian shopping is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Shop Small Business Saturday: Equestrian Edition  appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Of course you want to do the right thing for your horse and provide him with the best possible nutrition, but you may know more about riding or grooming than you do about the nuances of hay. Don’t feel overwhelmed—the topic is less confusing than you might think. We reached out to Rachel Mottet, Ph.D., the owner of Legacy Equine Nutrition consulting business, for help in navigating this sea of dried grass.

Grass or Legume Hay?

Horse hay is generally divided into two main categories: grasses and legumes. Grasses often have long, slender stalks and perhaps a seed head on top; legumes are leafier, don’t grow as tall, and the stems are crunchier.

“The most common legumes fed to horses in the U.S. are alfalfa and clover,” says Mottet. “The most common U.S. grass hays are timothy, orchard, fescue, brome, and Bermuda.”

Mottet notes that grasses are then subdivided as cool-season or warm-season grasses, with cool-season grasses tending to be more palatable to horses than warm-season grasses.

“All are, however, acceptable choices for horses,” she says. “The main difference between grasses and legumes is that legumes tend to be higher in protein, energy, and several other micronutrients.”

So if legumes offer more energy, should you choose them over grasses? Not necessarily.

“Horses can do great on many types of forages,” says Mottet. “A good-quality grass hay can be the foundational piece of the diet for really any horse. A legume can be helpful for high-performance horses, those who are considered ‘hard keepers,’ and for mares that are gestating or lactating.”

Many horse owners use a grass hay, but may supplement with alfalfa (or an alfalfa mix) if the extra calories are needed.

“Alfalfa is usually [richer] in protein, energy, and micronutrient density, and is often not ideal as the sole source of forage in the diet,” says Mottet. “There are some situations where a large inclusion of alfalfa is a good choice, but in general, it shouldn’t be the only forage your horse is receiving if you have grass hay also available.”

Ponies, in particular, can be overly sensitive to the calorie content of alfalfa hay.

Choosing a Hay

You’ll find further options within the grass and legume categories. But you probably don’t need to worry too much about the exact hay species, since that is going to vary somewhat by your region. For example, don’t get too focused on whether to feed a cool-season timothy hay over a cool-season orchard grass mix.

“Finding what’s available in your region is a good place to start,” says Mottet. “Start by finding a quality horse hay vendor in your area that you can get a consistent source from. Check in with other local horse farms to see who grows horse hay in the area.”

She also suggests connecting with a local extension agent as a guide.

“Keep in mind that hay that’s appropriate for cattle and other livestock may not be the best match for your horses, so try to find a vendor growing hay specifically for horses,” Mottet advises.

Another major factor—probably more important than the specific type of hay you buy—is the age at which the hay was harvested. As grasses and legumes mature and the stalks become thicker, the nutritional value of the hay begins to diminish.

“There isn’t a certain species I typically avoid, as maturity when cut is the biggest influencer of nutritional quality in any hay,” says Mottet. “You can have good or bad quality in nearly any variety! However, there are a few situations that warrant specificity. In a number of horses, a low non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) hay is most appropriate [for horses with sugar and starch sensitivities or obesity]. The hay most appropriate for these horses is one that is more mature (stemmy), or a variety with known low NSC content.”

She also notes that pregnant mares can be sensitive to the endophyte fungus found in tall fescue grass, so fescue might not be the wisest choice on breeding farms.

Look for Quality

There are some basics you should look for no matter what type of hay you ultimately use. Mottet recommends finding hay that is free of debris, has minimal dust, and does not have discolored areas indicative of mold. She also advises that green hay is not necessarily the truest indicator of quality and nutrient composition.

“Sometimes you can have the most beautiful bright green hay, but your horse prefers the more brown/green option,” she says. “It’s hard to always explain why, but the point is to not get completely lost in finding the greenest hay available thinking this is the determinant of quality.”

Watch Their Weight

Mottet recommends regularly appraising your horse’s body condition, as you can gain clues about the quality of your hay and whether your horse getting too much, too little, or the correct amount.

“I suggest using the Henneke Body Condition Scoring (BCS) system to ensure your horse is getting adequate hay intake,” she says. “A good guide is to make sure your horse is receiving at least 1.5 percent of his body weight in hay per day, all the way up to free choice [about 2.5 percent of body weight in hay intake per day]. You can use your horse’s BCS to determine where to land within that range of hay intake.”

Once you have determined the hay that works best for your horse and have found a reliable supplier in your region, you should have an easier time next year, when you simply need to restock. Then your only question will be how to find enough helpers to unload the hay!

Further Reading

◆ How to Grow Your Own Hay
◆ Hay Buyer’s Guide
◆ Hay Accessories to Make Feeding Your Horse Easier
◆ Soil and Hay Tests for Horse Owners

This article about choosing the right hay type appeared in the January/February 2025 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Choosing the Right Hay Type appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

As horse owners, you know it’s time for that stinky, white crumbly grossness that comes with thrush – and even better, the hard-to-clean mess you make on yourself and in your barn with the typical treatment methods.

Except, what if we told you that there’s a new smarter, mess-free method for treating thrush?

“As horse owners ourselves, we understand how challenging managing thrush can be,” said Dan Buttrick, Equine Brand Manager for Absorbine. “We’re excited to offer riders a new option with Silver Honey® Thrush Foam – an effective solution powered by Manuka Honey and MicroSilver BG®, without relying on caustic chemicals and without leaving behind mess or staining. Our goal is to make caring for hooves easier and help improve the daily lives of both horses and riders.”

Since thrush is one of the most common issues horse owners face, it’s only right that there should be an easy-to-use treatment option that actually works – even without all the extra chemicals.

Silver Honey® Rapid Hoof Care Thrush Foam is the first and only thrush treatment to combine Manuka Honey and MicroSilver® BG, delivering powerful, natural antimicrobial action in an innovative expanding foam. Designed to treat and prevent even the most stubborn thrush, the foam fills deep cracks and hoof crevices for thorough, long-lasting coverage. It works without creating any mess or causing staining. The precision straw applicator allows easy, targeted application under pads, around shoes, or on barefoot hooves. Tough on bacteria and fungi but gentle enough for daily use, it’s a smarter, more effective solution for total hoof health.

This fast-acting formula delivers rapid results for both acute treatment and daily prevention, stopping thrush in its tracks before it can take over. The unique foam application allows the treatment to stay in place to actively fight infection, with the straw applicator ensuring precise, mess-free application in tight, hard-to-reach areas without running off or getting all over you or your barn.

With Silver Honey® Rapid Hoof Care Thrush Foam, thrush doesn’t stand a chance.

The post Thrush Season Is Upon Us. appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Adoptable Horse: Hazel, a 7-year-old, 16.0hh Thoroughbred mare
Organization: February Star Sanctuary Inc., Knoxville, Md.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Hazel

Hoping for a mare full of heart? Meet Hazel!

Registered with The Jockey Club as Three D Party, this unraced Thoroughbred mare has tons of potential. By the graded stakes winner and proven sire Desert Party, Hazel is also ready for success—just via an off-the-track career. She’s great for riding and could go into various disciplines.

Hazel also loves to be the queen of the herd and will likely want to be the first to greet you at the gate. She is up to date on vaccinations.

Contact February Star Sanctuary Inc. today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Hazel!

ASPCA Right Horse

ASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.

The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Hazel appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Adoptable Horse: Breaking Bullet, a 5-year-old, 16.1hh Thoroughbred mare
Organization: After the Races, Elkton, Md.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Breaking Bullet

Breaking Bullet is a 16.1 hand, 5-year-old mare (Bullet Gone Astray – Intermission by More Than Ready) that came to After the Races in partnership with Aftercare Charles Town. Bullet raced 38 times and made a little money in spite of only winning one race. After her last race in August, her connections decided it was time for her to retire.

Upon retirement she was evaluated at the track by a great vet (also a surgeon) who found her sound. She was then moved to a farm to await space to open up at ATR. Upon arrival there, she looked sound coming off the trailer and was turned out, but was of course hoof-sore a week later when ATR’s vet did her intake evaluation. Thankfully she does block to the foot so ATR hopes that with some TLC they’ll get her back on track.

ATR also plans to do a bit of physical therapy with Bullet to loosen up her neck, which was stiff for her evaluation. They’re hopeful after some good neck stretches and PT she’ll look much better when the vet comes back to revisit her.

Contact After the Races today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Breaking Bullet!

ASPCA Right Horse

ASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.

The post ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Breaking Bullet appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

“This virus can spread fast, it can be deadly, and the earliest signs are often so subtle they’re easy to miss,” Commissioner Miller, himself an avid horseman, said. “That’s why monitoring your horses right now is critical. The quicker we identify a potential case, the better chance we have to protect not only our animals, but the entire Texas equine community.”

A particularly aggressive strain of EHV-1 has been confirmed by veterinary clinics in Central Texas. While investigations are ongoing, the TDA believes the situation warrants immediate attention, given the rapid spread and severe outcomes in affected horses.

Those who should act immediately are those who:

• Have a horse that was present at the WPRA event in the Waco area or transported one to/from that event.
• Have a horse that has mingled with those transported from that event.
• Any horse owner or facility operator who has recently participated in large multi–barn gatherings, roping jackpots, or traveled extensively enough to include the Waco region.

Clinical signs of EHV-1 can vary widely, and may include:

• Fever
• Nasal discharge, coughing, or other respiratory changes
• Depression or lethargy.
• Neurological signs: stumbling or incoordination, loss of tail tone, hind-limb weakness, head tilt, recumbency.
• Abortions in pregnant mares.

The EHV-1 virus spreads quickly and efficiently, making early precautions essential. Horses can transmit the virus directly through simple nose-to-nose contact, and infected animals may also release contagious aerosolized particles when they cough or sneeze. Indirect transmission is equally dangerous, as shared tack, grooming tools, water and feed buckets, thermometers, and other equipment can all carry the virus from one horse to another. Even humans can unintentionally act as mechanical carriers, spreading the virus on their hands, clothing, or boots.

To protect your horses and the broader equine community, the TDA recommends the following immediate steps:

1. Isolate any horse that attended the Waco event for at least 14 days from other equines, or until cleared by a veterinarian.
2. Suspend hauling, showing, or mixing horses from the exposure group until further notice. Avoid taking exposed horses to other barns or events.
3. Disinfect trailers, wash-racks, cross-ties, tie-areas, tack rooms, buckets, grooming tools, and any shared equipment. Use an appropriate virucidal disinfectant.
4. Avoid sharing tack, halters, grooming equipment, buckets, water hoses, etc., between exposed and unexposed horses.
5. Monitor temperatures twice daily for all exposed horses and report any fever (≥101.5 °F) or other signs to a veterinarian immediately.
6. If any horse exhibits neurologic signs, coughing, or nasal discharge, isolate it immediately, wear protective gear, and call your veterinarian.
7. Keep accurate records: track which horses were present at events, their movement, and who handled them for contact tracing if needed.
8. Stay in contact with your local veterinarian and keep up to date on updates from state veterinary authorities.

“I’m asking every local horse rider, roper, trainer, and breeder to do their part today,” Commissioner Miller added. “Check your horses twice a day, isolate any exposed animals, tighten up your biosecurity, and call your vet the moment something looks off. If we work together and take this seriously, we can get ahead of this outbreak and keep our horses and our state’s $12.3 billion equine industry safe.”

What is Equine Herpes Virus?

The horse can be affected by many different strains of equine herpes virus (EHV), also known as rhinopneumonitis, but five strains are most prevalent: EHV-1, EHV-2, EHV-3, EHV-4, and EHV-5. Of these, EHV-1 and EHV-4 are associated with viral respiratory disease, with EHV-4 mostly affecting young horses younger than 3 years of age. EHV-1 is the most prevalent concern in horse populations of all ages, not only because its respiratory disease is more virulent than that of EHV-4, but also because it can cause viral abortion in pregnant mares or neurologic disease (equine herpes myeloencephalopathy or EHM). Mutation of the DNA in the herpes virus produces this extremely virulent neurological form, which damages blood vessels in the central nervous system. Subsequent damage to the spinal cord tissues and brain is accompanied by specific neurological signs.

How EHV-1 Works

Horses often contract the herpes virus at a young age but do not always develop apparent clinical signs at that time. Like herpes infections in humans, the virus often goes dormant but can resurface when the horse is stressed by training, transport, competition, herd dynamics, or other health conditions.

Re-activation of the latent virus results in active shedding of the virus in the horse’s nasal secretions. Even a healthy-looking horse can transmit the EHV-1 virus from his respiratory secretions. Horses with clinical signs shed viral particles profusely and should be isolated immediately.

Direct horse-to-horse contact facilitates exposure, but the virus can also be transmitted on peoples’ hands, clothing and shoes, as well as grooming equipment, tack, buckets, rakes, hoses and water tanks, to name a few. It is also possible for airborne particles expelled by coughing or sneezing to transfer to horses some distance away, although no one knows exactly how far.

— Edited Press Release | Source: Texas Department of Agriculture

The post EHV-1 Outbreak Reported in Texas appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Eucerin Oil Control Sun Gel-Cream SPF 50+

When you’re on vacation, there’s little time to wait for your sunscreen to dry before you blast off to the barn or beach. This dry-touch facial sunblock for oily, acne-prone skin ensures you don’t have to delay, so dirt is less likely to stick to it. An added bonus? It’s extra water- and sweat-resistant.

Available for $19.58 on caretobeauty.com.

Blundstone Chelsea No. 550

Iconic for a reason, Blundstone boots mold to your feet and wear like iron; they’re made of durable, double-stitched leather. The Chelsea No. 550 boot offers outstanding, lightweight shock absorption. Pull tabs make sure you can get them on quickly and easily.

Available for $209.95 on blundstone.com.

Hydaway Collapsible Travel Bottle

A collapsible water bottle ensures you stay hydrated without weighing you down. Collapses to a 1.5-inch disc and holds 17 ounces of water when expanded (a 25-ounce option is also available). Dishwasher safe, it’s made of food-grade silicone and BPA-free plastic. Available in a variety of colors.

Available for $29.95 on shop.myhydaway.com.

Helmet Brims Horseback Riding Standard Brim Sun Visor

The Helmet Brims Riding Sun Visor blocks both the sun and the rain without blocking your vision. Lightweight and easy to fit onto your helmet using velcro and elastic, this visor is made with Australian shade cloth that ensures high sun protection while also being exceptionally durable and offering a bit of visibility. Various trim color options.

Available for $46.95 from ridingwarehouse.com.

Carmex Weather Guard Stick with SPF 30

Whether you’re in the rain or in the wind, Carmex Weather Guard Stick with SPF 30 is the perfect moisturizing lip balm. Offering both UVA and UVB protection, this cocoa butter-infused balm is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

4-count available for $9.99 on amazon.com.

Body Glide Anti-Chafe Stick

Keep your thighs and backside chafe-free no matter how long you spend in the saddle with Body Glide Anti Chafe Stick. Sweat- and water-resistant, this easy-to-apply balm creates an invisible barrier to protect skin from rubbing, chafing, pinching, and other irritants.

Available from $5.49 to $16.99 on bodyglide.com.

Ariat VentTEK Stretch Shirt

Wear-tested and ready to ride, the button-front shirt offers UV protection and VentTEK side panels for air flow. Its moisture-wicking technology is designed for optimal comfort in any weather, ensuring you look good no matter how long you ride.

Available for $58.95 on ariat.com.

Acavallo Ortho-Pubis Seat Savers

It’s not always your seat bones that get sore when you’re spending hours on end in the saddle. Acavallo Ortho-Pubis Seat Savers reduce pressure around the pubic bones, ensuring more even weight distribution and a comfortable, safer seat. Available in western, dressage and jumping options.

Price varies by model; purchase on acavallo.com.

This article about trail and marathon riding essentials appeared in the January/February 2025  issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Trail and Marathon Riding Essentials appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

“Every time I ask this horse to come through for me, she is just so clutch. She’s just an incredible competitor and I’m so lucky to have her by my side and in that arena. We’ve been working together for a year now and we’re just continuing to build this synergetic and symbiotic bond,” said Ebeling. “I’m just so proud of her. As I’ve said, a rider is nothing without their horse, so really, thank you, Belle.”

“Our freestyle really highlights her personality as a diva mare and is a testament to strong powerful women. The freestyle includes sections of songs from artists like Rihanna, Beyonce, and Gwen Stefani, and honestly, I don’t think anyone can do it better than a mare and that’s been the inspiration behind this freestyle,” said Ebeling of his musical selection.

Of the evening and monumental achievement, Ebeling noted the format of the competition and the opportunity to highlight the Grand Prix Freestyle a positive push the sport needs to be able to connect with more people and attract a broader audience.

“I think it’s such a great way to capture the hearts and minds of a wider audience. It’s an amazing opportunity for our sport and to show that we can make it fun and entertaining, while highlighting the incredible attributes of our horses. Getting to have my name inked on this trophy with other greats, including two Olympians, it just motivates me more to keep going and keep pushing.”

With Drombusch OLD and her own 2011 Oldenburg gelding (Destano x DiMaggio), Felicitas Hendricks (GER) set the tone in the second half of the class, earning a 78.260% to put the pressure on both Ebeling and Marek to deliver. Hendricks, who earned her qualification during the Wellington season in her campaign last spring, competed in the desert for the first time and was thrilled with both her horse and the experience.

“I’ve been with this horse for a long, long time and he just never stops impressing me. I think today was one of the best feelings we’ve had together,” said Hendricks of her ride. “It’s special when you have been partners for as long as we have and you still feel like you’re continuing to grow and develop together – getting better with every ride. I’m so thankful for him and to be able to experience this together.”

Marek (Dunnellon, Fla.) and Fayvel, a 2010 KWPN gelding (Zizi Top x Houston) owned by Cynthia Davila, finished their week with a strong third-place finish in the final class of the week, capping an incredibly strong season for the pair, which included their overall series win, alongside their FEI Grand Prix CDI5* win on Friday evening.

“What’s really fun about showing this horse is that he’s uncomplicated to ride. He lets me really ride and not hold back. With Fayvel, I can really go for it and on a night like tonight, when the pressure is on, I know I’m going to fight for it and he’s going to be right there with me every step of the way and we don’t need to hold back,” explained Marek. “It’s been an amazing week here for us in California and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to compete here with him.”

A total of twelve combinations moved forward to contest the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDI5* under the lights, with four different combinations earning personal bests, with competitors across the competition representing the U.S., Canada, and Germany.

View the full results here.

— Edited Press Release | Source: US Equestrian

The post Ben Ebeling and Bellena Win Inaugural US Equestrian Open Dressage Final appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.