Category: Knowledge Hub
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Stables are controlled environments — but they are not risk-free. Many injuries occur not in the field or during riding, but inside the stable itself. Confined spaces, solid structures, equipment storage, and human activity create potential hazards that must be actively managed. Safe stable management is not about eliminating risk entirely — it is about…
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How to Read Your Horse — Not Just the Weather Forecast Horses cannot tell us when they are uncomfortable — but they communicate clearly through behaviour, posture and physical signs. Incorrect rugging is one of the most common management errors on UK yards, and many owners rely on temperature charts instead of direct observation. Learning…
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Winter grooming in the UK presents a constant balancing act. Horses accumulate mud, sweat under rugs and dampness around legs — yet frequent bathing in cold conditions can strip protective oils, chill muscles and compromise skin health. Effective winter grooming is about maintaining cleanliness and skin integrity without disrupting the coat’s natural insulation system. This…
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Horse transport is one of the highest-risk routine activities in equine management. Travel introduces confinement, vibration, noise, temperature fluctuation, and stress — all of which affect physiology and behaviour. Preparation reduces injury risk, minimises stress, and protects both horse and handler. Transport safety begins long before the ramp is lowered. Why Transport Preparation Matters Poor…
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A Practical Guide to Getting Fit Right — First Time A poorly fitted rug causes more problems than no rug at all. Rubbing, slipping, pressure sores, restricted movement and even behavioural tension can all stem from incorrect sizing. Many owners guess rug size based on previous purchases or brand labels. However, rug sizing varies between…
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Skin irritation in horses is often attributed to weather, rug rubs or grooming issues. However, parasites are a common and frequently overlooked cause of persistent itching, hair loss and skin inflammation. External parasites can significantly affect welfare, performance and comfort. Early identification and appropriate treatment prevent escalation and long-term skin damage. This guide explains how…
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Introducing horses to one another is one of the most injury-prone management situations on any yard. Even experienced horses can react unpredictably when social hierarchy is disrupted. Kicking, chasing, biting, and fence-line injuries are common when introductions are rushed or poorly structured. Safe herd integration relies on controlled exposure, adequate space, and careful observation. This…
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A Practical Guide for UK Conditions Wet winters are one of the biggest management challenges for UK horse owners. Persistent rainfall, heavy clay soils and limited daylight create muddy fields, damaged pasture and increased risk of injury and skin conditions. Poor turnout management during winter can lead to: Mud fever Thrush Tendon strain Field destruction…
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Tack is one of the most significant investments a horse owner makes. Poor storage shortens lifespan, weakens leather, damages stitching, and increases the risk of equipment failure — directly impacting rider safety. Correct storage is not cosmetic. It is protective maintenance. This guide explains how to store saddles, bridles, and leather equipment properly in UK…
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Limited turnout is an increasingly common reality in UK horse management. Weather conditions, land restrictions, yard rules, and seasonal ground protection often mean horses cannot access pasture as freely as their natural biology would prefer. While ideal management supports extensive movement and grazing, limited turnout does not have to compromise welfare — if handled thoughtfully.…