More than half of H&H readers would consider rehoming a rescue horse, and almost a third have already done so.

The results of a poll on horseandhound.co.uk revealed that rehoming is an attractive option to equestrians.

Of those who completed the poll, 65% said they would consider rehoming in the future, while 28% said they had already rehomed a rescued horse or pony. Just 7% said this wasn’t something they would consider.

An RSPCA spokesman welcomed the news.

“It’s great to hear that almost 30% of people have already given a home to a rescue horse or pony,” she told H&H.

“It’s so encouraging that 65% of people said they too would consider rehoming a rescue horse. We’ve seen some of our horses going on to achieve amazing things from becoming super Pony Club ponies, happy-hackers, carriage ponies, showjumpers and even just wonderful companions.”

Thriving in his new home

Coloured pony Mickey was found collapsed in a Leicester park close to a busy main road at the start of the year (23 January).
After being rescued by an RSPCA inspector, he received urgent veterinary treatment from a vet.

“When I arrived to catch Mickey he was already in such a bad way that he had collapsed on the ground,” said RSPCA inspector Sharon Knight.

Mickey in the park

“When equine vet Melissa Packer arrived she was keen to explore all avenues to save his life and it’s down to her that he has pulled through. Mickey was thin and exhausted, and he was suffering with a huge infestation of lice.”

Mickey was transported to a boarding yard in the Leicester area.

“Poor Mickey remained on a drip for more than two days after we transported him to our yard,” said Ms Packer.

Mickey was taken to a boarding yard for treatment

“He was covered in lice so we had to clip his matted coat, and underneath, he was just skin and bone, he was in an awful state.

“After a blood transfusion, the drip and lots of TLC, his health started to improve slowly, and I’m delighted to say that he is now in a new home in Leicestershire.”

Mickey’s new owner Mags said she was “so happy” to have him.

“He is a cheeky chappy, and very loving,” she said.

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“He has fitted into our family of ponies very well and he is just a super little foal. He has a home with us for the rest of his life, so thank you to the RSPCA and Mel and her team for all the hard work making him better, I feel very fortunate to have him.”

If you’re interested in learning more about the RSPCA’s rescue horses and ponies looking for a home, visit www.rspca.org.uk/findapet, or contact one of the charity’s equine rehoming centres.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

This week’s edition (31 May) is a training special, including a look at the world’s top trainers and whether you should have multiple coaches. Also check out our summer clothing guide, interview with showjumper and recent winner of the Hamburg Derby, Matt Sampson and feature on health problems in miniature horses

Even the relatively gloomy UK climate can pose a threat to equine skin. Ultraviolet (UV) rays affect horses in much the same way as they do humans, the only difference being that horses cannot develop any resistance by tanning — although hair does provide some protection.

Overexposure to sun can leave horses with reddened, scaly skin or, in more severe cases, painful blisters that may ooze a fluid or serum.

Should we stock up on sunscreens to protect sensitive skin?

“Light-skinned horses and those with any areas of white, damaged or depigmented skin are at particular risk from sun damage, even on cloudy days when UV levels may still be high,” says Dr Philip Ivens from Buckingham Equine Vets. “Cover small areas such as the flesh between the nostrils with sunblock — preferably a zinc oxide cream that has antibacterial properties.

“You can use a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) of 30-55, but check the ingredients as some horses are sensitive to the chemical PABA [para-aminobenzoic acid],” he adds. “Look for hypoallergenic sunscreens and those marketed for children, as they are formulated for sensitive skin and offer high levels of protection. Waterproof creams will not wash off in water troughs or on dewy grass, but always spot-test any products not made specifically for horses on a small area of skin in case of adverse reaction.”

Philip explains that excessive UV radiation can incite a skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

“The best defence is to provide grazing horses with plenty of field shade in the form of a shelter, thick hedging or trees,” he says. “Reduce exposure by avoiding peak UV times (10am to 3pm) or by turning horses out at night. Face masks and rugs that are UV-resistant are a good idea for horses susceptible to problems.”

Pesky flies

Flies can prove a persistent problem, plaguing horses indoors and out. Ready yourself for the onslaught this summer with advice from H&H vet Karen Coumbe MRCVS of Bell Equine.

“A long-lasting fly spray, applied regularly, can be effective,” she says. “Home-made repellents with oils such as citronella may help, but insecticides known as synthetic pyrethroids — especially permethrin or cypermethrin — offer the best defence against biting horse flies and the small, black flies that commonly feed around the horse’s face, neck and underside. However, try a tiny amount of any fly repellent before more widespread use, as many of the more effective products contain the relatively strong substance DEET, which is used in a variety of mosquito repellents for humans. A patch test on a hairless area of the horse’s inner thigh, if he will tolerate it, will reveal any sensitivity to the ingredients.

“Minimising areas where flies breed and gather will help,” adds Karen, who also advises practising good yard hygiene. “Fly traps or tapes are a good idea, as long as they are fixed securely and placed well out of your horse’s reach.

“Barriers such as face masks, neck covers and anti-midge or turnout rugs can offer excellent protection, but take care that items fit well and are checked regularly. Sadly, we recently had to remove a horse’s eye after he suffered severe ocular trauma when his fly mask slipped.”

Cracked hooves

When it comes to cracked hooves, the answer is not found in a can, according to farrier Fraser Youngson AWCF.

“The main summer challenge is rapid hoof growth,” he says, and explains that warmer temperatures and a boost in nutrition from spring grass are less of a drain on a horse’s metabolism than winter conditions, and promote the development of new horn.

“An effective solution for poor hoof condition is regular shoeing and hoof care. A horse who will go six to seven weeks between farriery sessions in winter will need a trim every four to five weeks maximum in summer. When the clenches have risen and the shoe is becoming loose, damage to the hoof is already occurring.

“Horn quality does tend to deteriorate in summer, especially when the weather changes from wet to dry and back,” adds Fraser, likening hoof horn to wood that shrinks and swells. “Hooves tend to be strongest with constant conditions. Repeated saturation can be problematic, especially in hot weather when they then dry rapidly.

“Products with natural ingredients should do no harm and improve hoof appearance, but regular attention from the farrier is the key to condition,” he says. “Good nutrition should improve long-term hoof health, but weak hooves may benefit from a supplement with a range of ingredients such as zinc, biotin and methionine.”

Leg cooling

Hammering across hard ground in summer can leave a horse feeling sore. David Rowlands MRCVS of Penbode Equine Vets explains the science behind cold therapy.

“The effects of cooling include constriction of blood vessels (known as vasoconstriction) and reduced blood flow, resulting in a decrease in any bleeding or swelling within the soft tissues,” he says. “Nerve conduction is also lessened, reducing pain. A lower metabolic rate, in turn, reduces cell death from hypoxia (insufficient oxygen), which helps preserve tissue health and can shorten healing time.”

A good old-fashioned hose pipe or a bag of chopped ice should do the trick, but may not be practical — especially away from home. Are ice boots, pastes and gels as effective?

“Cold therapy can be achieved via several methods and new products are always evolving,” says David. “But, horses are more likely to tolerate simpler systems.

“The key factor is temperature,” he explains. “To be most effective, tissue temperatures must be reduced to between 15 and 19°C — any lower than 10°C and tissue damage can occur. Timing is critical, especially in the case of acute injury, as cold therapy will have greatest effect if applied immediately and within 48 hours.

Apply cold or iced water for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. In case of soft tissue injury, such as superficial digital flexor tendonitis, further cooling is often required at intervals of between 30 minutes and four hours.

“Avoid applying ice directly to the skin,” adds David, who advises using a damp cloth as a buffer to protect tissue and dissipate the cold.

Electrolyte support

A horse loses around 10g of electrolytes per litre of sweat, according to Natalie McGoldrick MRVCS of South Coast Equine Vets.

“Electrolytes control many bodily functions, including muscle contraction, and play a vital role in the transmission of nerve impulses,” she says. “Hay, chaff, grass and hard feed are typically low in sodium, yet this is a vital thirst regulator.

“Electrolyte deficiencies can cause poor performance and recovery from exercise, as well as exertional rhabdomyolysis (ERM, also known as ‘tying up’),” she adds. “It’s not just competition horses who need electrolytes in the summer months — consider supplementing any horse in work, especially if he has no hard feed.”

What should we look for on the ingredients label?

“Definitely sodium, but also chloride, calcium, magnesium and potassium,” says Natalie, adding that competitors should check the contents for banned substances. “Ideally, an electrolyte supplement should have a high sodium chloride content, less than 5% sugar and not many added extras. Table salt can be used for a horse in very light work, but will not replace the full spectrum of electrolytes.

“Supplements can be fed in paste form, mixed into feed or added to the horse’s water, although the latter can make it difficult to monitor intake and the taste may discourage the horse from drinking,” says Natalie, who recommends giving a supplement daily.

Ref Horse & Hound; 24 May 2018

Whether your father is super keen or a reluctant equestrian, here are 11 perfect Father’s Day gifts to say thank you on 17 June for all he does to support your horsey endeavours.

NB: The shopping links below are provided to help you buy these items. We earn a small commission from these links.

Victorinox Ranger Unisex Outdoor Knife

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Hip Flask Set

What man doesn’t like the odd tipple? This stainless steel, concave hip flask with brown leather binding and four steel cups is a stylish gift for the father that likes hunting or going racing.
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Husquarna Petrol Leaf Blower & Vacuum

This efficient hand-held petrol leaf blower combines high blowing power with user friendliness to get any equestrian yard or back garden spotless. If the man in your life loves a power tool or two, this is bound to go down a treat!
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British Polo No.3 Botanical gin

This proudly British, quadruple distilled Polo Gin uses organic botanicals to create a flavoursome and smooth gin. It can be enjoyed on the rocks, in a gin and tonic or in another cocktail after a long day on the yard.
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Country Birds Tie and shotgun cartridge cufflinks

A smart Soprano green colour silk tie, teamed up with a great pair of shotgun cartridge cufflinks — a lovely present for any who likes shooting and other country pursuits.
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Horse Racing’s Strangest Tales

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Carlos Diaz Argentinian polo belt

These belts were originally made in team colours of Argentinian polo teams. Nowadays they have become quite the fashion among rural and equestrian folk. Each belt is hand-stitched and is makes a useful, but fun present for your father.
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Horka Boot bottle opener

These metal bottle openers in the shape of a riding boot would be a very useful, but yet thoughtful gift for your dad.
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Fallen Fruits Bootbrush and Bootjack

This would be a very useful present as it combines a shoe scraper and boot jack with a pole to help your dad balance while dealing with cleaning and removing his boots.
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Hunter Balmoral Hawksworth boots

These boots are the perfect gift for an adventurous man. The Balmoral leather boots are handcrafted from water-resistant leather, which is durable and offers great performance over rough and challenging terrain.
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Horse & Hound Subscription

A magazine subscription is the gift that keeps on giving as it lasts all year, plus subscribers can enjoy a host of extra benefits, in addition to knowing that the magazine will be delivered to their door every week. Take advantage of our special Father’s Day gift subscriptions for under £20!
Buy now: Horse & Hound subscription from £19.99

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

This week my competition news comes from France where I had four horses competing at Bethune CSI3*. It was one of those ‘nearly’ weeks.

The horses all felt on great form, but I just had a touch of four-fault-itis. However, there were still some great moments particularly with Z7 Caretina who came fourth in the seven-year-old class. She is a great mare and I’m really excited to see what the future holds. The main man, Z7 Cash Up, put in an incredible effort in the 1.55m to just breathe on a rail and have it down, but I’m still so proud of him and everything he is doing at the moment. We have such a busy schedule and he just keeps on giving me such lovely rounds.

You will see in my vlog that sadly it was my last show with the amazing Rosie. She has been the most vital and brilliant part of my support team. The horses all adore her, they always look amazing and I have loved working with her. Myself and the rest of the Breen Team are so sad to see her go but wish her all the luck in the world with her next adventure.

There have also been two pieces of quite exciting news. Firstly, I am thrilled to announce that I am now a brand ambassador for Kaval International who sell the most amazing riding wear, for both competition and at home. I am so grateful for their support and to Stride Management, who look after all of my PR, marketing and sponsorship, who have guided me through the whole process. Stride will be supporting me with all of my responsibilities as an ambassador, as with my hectic show schedule, I need all the help I can get! I will be wearing Kaval products from now on, so have a look at my Instagram to see the latest equestrian fashion from them.

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Onto the second piece of news — the amazing Z7 Cash Up and I have been selected for the senior nations cup team at the Lisbon CSIO3* next week! This is will be my first appearance on a senior team and I am still pinching myself that I have made the cut. My team mates are Ellen Whitaker, Amy Inglis (a fellow Sussex girl) and Jake Saywell (another former Breen Team member — watch out for an intro from him in my vlog). To say I am excited is an understatement, but I am just trying to treat it as any other show and make sure Cash Up has the best possible preparation.

My next vlog will be all about my experience in Lisbon, Portugal so make sure to check back in to see how the team and I get on!

G

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

In this week’s edition, out on 24 May, don’t miss our “cob special”, including how to find the perfect cob, meet champion cob Our Cashel Blue and more.

From checking your weather app 20 times a day to booking your holidays around your competition schedule, horse ownership takes over every part of your life. When you love it, there’s nothing better. But what happens when you dread going to the yard? Or see riding as something you have to do, rather than want to do?

Oonagh Meyer, head of approvals at the British Horse Society says: “Owning an equine can have its ups and downs, but the responsibility to provide good care and quality of life for their horse should ultimately feel like a rewarding experience for the owner. It’s important that owners recognise if they are no longer able to give their equines the time and care they need. Owning a horse is also a large financial commitment, and owners must be realistic about their ability to afford horse ownership long-term.”

So, if you’re considering a break from horses, take a look at these five options that could help you out first – rather than selling straight away.

1. Try a sharer or a full loan

If you could do with a few days off a week, why not look for a sharer or part-loaner? You’ll benefit from some downtime, and your horse still gets plenty of exercise and attention. It’s common to ask for a financial contribution too, so you can take some pressure off your budgeting.

“If short-term financial pressures are causing difficulty with full livery fees, owners could consider changing to assisted, part or DIY livery, or find a sharer who is happy to make a contribution in exchange for riding,” Oonagh explains. “Best practice would indicate this should only be undertaken with clear contractual agreement.”

You may want a bigger break than just a few days off every week. But if selling either isn’t plausible or something you want to do yet, then consider putting your horse on full loan. You’re still in control of their future, without the day-to-day care and riding. It’s a good way to test the water to see if you could sell — or if indeed you want a life without horses in it. That said, great care should be taken to check the suitability of the loan home and H&H recommends a legal contract is put in place so both parties are clear about their responsibilities.

2. Turn your horse away

Whether it’s a lack of time, money or motivation, turning your horse away can help ease your worries and stresses. For horses who don’t need their weight managed or grazing restricted, being turned away is a perfect way to take a break without having to sell. Plus, it can work wonders if your horse has been suffering from any health niggles or behavioural issues — the combination of time off and Dr Green has been known to work wonders in some cases.

Depending on the set up of the grass livery, the owner is likely to remain responsible for their horse’s daily care, although some yards will provide daily checks as part of the service, meaning you only need to visit when you need your horsey fix.

“Even if owners feel that the time has come to give up the day-to-day responsibility of owning a horse, remember that many activities connected to riding have significant physical and mental benefits,” Oonagh says. “Being outdoors and in contact with nature is a key motivation for the majority of riders, and the sense of emotional well-being people have when interacting with horses can be psychologically very important, especially if a rider is in poor health.”

3. Change yards

If you love to hack but have to cross a road that resembles the M25 at rush hour, it won’t take long to lose your motivation. Likewise, if you spend 10 months of the year slogging through shin-high mud, the joys of owning a horse get tiring, and fast.

If you want more time, support, or better facilities, consider a yard change. It might be putting your horse onto part livery or moving from stabling — and all the mucking out — to grass livery. Naomi Dormor owns a young Connemara gelding, and has struggled with the idea of giving up.

“There are so many reasons behind it — money, time, and feeling like I’m missing out on things that other people my age are doing, like travelling. I’m now considering putting my horse on grass or assisted livery to give me some breathing space and to focus on my partner and my career a little.”

Marie Dittman moved to England from Switzerland and found the change in hacking a shock.

“I considered quitting riding shortly after I’d moved to England. In Switzerland, I used to go for hacks several hours long, without meeting anyone or hitting any traffic. Hacking has always been my favourite discipline and it helps me clear my mind after a long day at work. I found hacking incredibly stressful at first. It wasn’t relaxing, it didn’t give me any sense of freedom and for quite a while I didn’t actually enjoy it. That’s when I thought ‘why am I doing this at all?’ But I got used to it, helped by finding places to go for a good canter.”

Sometimes a new group of people, a little extra help, and better facilities can help reignite your love for riding and help get your motivation back.

4. Find a more suitable horse

Owning a horse that needs exercising every day to keep it safe and sane can quickly turn your hobby into a chore. We all have other commitments, and if you’re sacrificing some parts of your life to exercise your horse, it’s no surprise if you lose the love for it.

Riding shouldn’t be a chore, and if your current horse doesn’t fit in with your lifestyle, find one who does. If you like the odd hack at the weekend but can’t guarantee you’ll have time to ride five or six times a week, look for a horse that’s happy to go for weeks without being sat on, rather than one that requires sticky-bum breeches, a neck-strap and a parachute after two days off.

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5. The right support

Sometimes all you need is a fresh pair of eyes and a new approach. Toni Erica spent years battling through injuries, behavioural issues and confidence wobbles with her two horses.

“I tried selling both of them at various times, but never found the right homes,” she says. Taking it as a sign to carry on, Toni also considered retiring them to get her “time and sanity back”. But for Toni, the light at the end of the tunnel came through taking a different approach.

“I tried various professional trainers and vets, using both traditional and natural methods. With Barney, we found he really enjoyed learning by play, so I used that, and he improved so much. With Ginger, it was all about perseverance.

“My main advice is to stay positive and never be afraid to ask for help. As soon as I started reaching out to the right people and telling them how I felt — rather than letting them take over — I started to achieve things. I’m usually a negative type of person, and just hearing positive words and recognising even tiny steps as a positive has helped my entire attitude, and I’ve started to enjoy having my horses again.

“We’re definitely not there yet, and some days I still feel like throwing in the towel, but I’m much more focused now.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

In this week’s edition, out on 24 May, don’t miss our “cob special”, including how to find the perfect cob, meet champion cob Our Cashel Blue and more.

Television presenter Lorraine Kelly has thanked the NHS staff who helped her recover following a serious riding fall that left her leg “de-gloved”.

The ITV star recently visited St George’s Hospital in London, where she received emergency treatment following the fall in 2012.

Lorraine’s visit was aired on her daytime show on 21 May.

“In 2012 I saw the very best of the NHS after a serious riding accident,” she said.

“It was only the second time I’d been on a horse for a charity event.”

Lorraine fell from the horse and was trodden on, leaving her with a serious wound to her leg.

“After losing three pints of blood, I needed urgent medical care, without it I would have been close to death,” she said.

“I was rushed to St George’s A&E due to the severity of my injury and it’s thanks to the amazing treatment I received that I’m here today.

“It’s strange to be back, I don’t remember a great deal about it but I do know medics were incredible and looked after me so well.”

Lorraine added that she didn’t look at her “de-gloved” wound “for ages” after the fall.

She underwent surgery and was off work for eight weeks while she recovered.

“It was like an out of body experience on that trolley [going into surgery],” she said.

“I could see lots of flashing light and I remember saying, ‘I don’t think I’ll be able to go to work tomorrow’.”

Lorraine recovered on the Gunning Ward, where she said the staff reassured her that she “would be just fine”.

“I owe an unpayable debt to everyone at the NHS who saved my life, but I’m just one of many people that are saved on a daily basis,” she added tearfully.

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“I don’t know what we would do without the NHS, from the bottom of my heart, thank you.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

In the latest edition (24 May), don’t miss our “cob special”, including how to find the perfect cob, meet champion cob Our Cashel Blue and more.

The three US event riders who tested positive for banned stimulants last autumn have been suspended from competition for a year and fined CHF 1,500 (£1,350) each.

The three riders — Hannah Sue Burnett, Jennie Brannigan and Alyssa Phillips — were all tested at the Ocala Jockey Club International in Florida last year (16-20 November), where Hannah Sue won the CIC3* on Harbour Pilot. All three recorded a positive result for the prohibited substance amfetamine, with Alyssa also testing positive for canrenone and Jennie for methylphenidate and ritalinic acid.

Amfetamine and methylphenidate are listed in the stimulants category of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) 2017 prohibited list, as is phenethylamine and its derivatives, which include ritalinic acid. Canrenone is included in the diuretics and masking agents category. 

Under the terms of the agreements between the FEI and the riders, the trio are suspended from competition for a year from the date of the sample collection (18 November 2018), have to pay the fine and are disqualified from the competition. The parties each bear their own legal costs.

The riders also have to support the FEI’s anti-doping campaign and engage in athlete education, including providing testimonials for FEI education material. They also have to complete an anti-doping education course within a year of the FEI Tribunal decision.

Athletes can apply for Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs) if they need to use a prohibited substance to manage an illness or condition. The riders all applied for a retroactive TUE after the tests, which were rejected, but they have all been granted TUEs for the same substances going forward.

“All three athletes were able to prove no significant fault or negligence and the circumstances of the cases show that none of them had the intention to dope,” said FEI legal director Mikael Rentsch. “In light of this, and the fact that the athletes have subsequently been granted Therapeutic Use Exemptions for these medications, the parties agreed that the period of ineligibility should be reduced to 12 months [from a potential four years], and the FEI Tribunal has approved that.”

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Detail of decisions and response: Hannah Sue Burnett

Hannah Sue requested the analysis of the B sample after her positive test, which confirmed the A sample analysis and the presence of amfetamine.

The FEI Tribunal reported Hannah Sue has had a “genuine and documented history of ADHD [attention deficit hyperactivity disorder] since childhood”, the condition being so disruptive she dropped out of school at 12 years old and was home schooled and subsequently dropped out of college. Amfetamines are commonly used to treat this condition.

“There was no intent by Ms Burnett to cheat or enhance performance and she was granted a prospective TUE for her ADHD condition,” continued the document. “Therefore, Ms Burnett’s fault lies not in taking the medication, but in failing to file a timely TUE application.”

The report also said that Hannah Sue has committed herself to educating herself about ADHD and starting psychotherapy for behavioural support around organisational skills and time management, as well as taking her prescribed medication.

Hannah Sue, who told the FEI she cannot recall receiving any human anti-doping education for at least five years, said after the Tribunal decision: “It is with the upmost passion and commitment that I will be returning to the competitive world of eventing. I have taken full responsibility for my actions and am grateful for the opportunity to return to the sport I so deeply love.

“Abiding by the rules that have been placed to ensure fair competition within the sport of eventing is important to me. While I am taking a doctor prescribed medication, I acknowledge and regret that I began taking the medication before submitting a Therapeutic Use Exemption. I have since gone through the FEI process and been granted a TUE going forward.

“I am humbled by the support and forgiveness of those closest to me despite my mistakes. To everyone who fought for me and believed in me when I couldn’t do so for myself — from the bottom of my heart, thank you. I know it will take time to rebuild the trust of many of my fans and supporters, but I am committed to doing exactly that.”

Detail of decisions and response: Jennie Brannigan

Jennie did not request the analysis of the B sample. The Tribunal report said she had “struggled with depression, attention issues, as well as ADHD symptoms for her entire life (as they are quite prevalent in her family history), but did not seek help through medication until she sustained head injuries / concussions in the past two years.” It also said that she provided documentation showing her concussion history “at times makes her forgetful and impulsive”.

Jennie, who had never previously been drug tested, was initially treated for depression and attention issues with Wellbutrin, which is not prohibited, but was moved onto Concerta and Vyvanse after Wellbutrin did not resolve her issues. Her Concerta and Wellbutrin use were declared on her doping control form.

“Ms Brannigan’s use of these medications was unrelated to her sport performance, but rather, was to treat her ADHD symptoms as well as depression. Ms Brannigan promptly admitted her anti-doping rule violation, promptly provided an explanation as to the cause of her positive test, and waived the testing of her B sample,” said the report, which added that: “Other tribunals have also held that depression is a factor that can lead to a reduction in a sanction.”

Jennie said: “I’m incredibly happy to know that I will be able to come back to compete again this November, and while this situation has been tough on my sponsors, students, owners, and support team I am truly thankful that I have learned how to love the sport even from the sidelines. I am grateful to everyone who has stood by me and I am extremely sorry to have let our sport, country, and my supporters down.

“That being said, I am appreciative to the FEI for recognising I wasn’t taking the medication to try to improve my performance and that indeed I will be allowed to compete on this medication going forward. I know I have learned a lot from this experience, and I hope it has helped others be more educated on anti-doping as well.”

Detail of decisions and response: Alyssa Phillips

Alyssa did not request the analysis of the B sample. She declared the two substances — canrenone and amfetamine — on her doping control form at the time of the test, which is seen as “a mitigating factor that weighs in her favour when assessing her degree of fault”.

The Tribunal also took into account Alyssa’s youth (she is 21), the fact she is an amateur rider and full-time college student and her lack of anti-doping education — “before she was tested she had no idea an anti-doping programme even existed for riders and this was her first ever doping test”.

The report added that the positive test was caused by medications for ADHD, for which Alyssa has a valid medical prescription and which she believed she was permitted to use. “Ms Phillips’s use of these medications was unrelated to her sport performance, but rather, was to treat her ADHD symptoms,” it said.

Alyssa said: “Today FEI made public that I have been given the minimum sanction possible of 12 months for my ingestion of two prescribed medications, that are banned substances. As most of you may recall, I tested positive for the two prescribed medications at a competition back in November. At the time, I didn’t understand that riders were subject to an anti-doping programme, I thought only horses were.

“I should’ve known to apply for a TUE for my two medications, but I was not aware I needed to. However, I have since applied and both medicines have received a TUE. With that being said, the FEI understood I was not trying to enhance my performance in any way and has granted me a sanction of 12 months backdated to when I was tested in November. So, I will be eligible to compete again on November 18, 2018.

“Despite my ineligibility to compete, I am grateful to be surrounded by people that have supported and continue to support me during this time, along with three happy and healthy horses. I have taken advantage of my time off to really focus on the training and ride-ability of my horses. I am staying positive and using this unfortunate situation as an opportunity to learn and grow as a rider.”

A pony who turned up in a grandmother’s back yard has “settled in well” to his new home at World Horse Welfare.

The charity received a call last month from a distressed woman who had found a pony in her paved back garden.

It transpired that her 13-year-old granddaughter had responded to an online advert claiming the pony would be put down if no-one took him. The pony’s previous owner had then “delivered” the young colt to the lady’s home.

World Horse Welfare field officer Rachel Andrews worked with the RSPCA to assess the pony and organise temporary accommodation for him, before taking him to the charity’s Penny Farm rescue and rehoming centre.

The colt has been named Mr Melvin Andrews, after the field officers that visited him, and has already become a favourite among World Horse Welfare visitors.

“Melvin was understandably a bit subdued when he arrived, but he’s come out of his shell a bit and shown that he’s a very sweet little pony who has a bit of a cheeky side,” said his groom, Katie Grimshaw.

“He’s already popular with visitors to the centre — everybody seems to have heard his story and people especially love his name.

“Our first priority was giving him a thorough bath and clipping his hair so we could properly assess his condition and treat him for lice.”

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She added the pony’s skin was in a “terrible state” and he was very underweight.

“We will be building him up slowly to help him regain his strength,” she added.

“We’re looking forward to working with him over the next few months to get him fit and healthy so that he can find the good home that all horses and ponies deserve.”

Ms Andrews added every equine “deserves responsible ownership”.

“[This] includes responsible breeding, selling and rehoming,” she said.

“We’re just glad that Melvin has settled in well at our Penny Farm rescue and rehoming centre and has already shown himself to be lovely a little pony.

“We hope in time that we can find him a good home.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

In this week’s edition, out on 24 May, don’t miss our “cob special”, including how to find the perfect cob, meet champion cob Our Cashel Blue and more.

The Horse & Hound Festival of Eventing, run in association with KBIS were a runaway success for the second year.  We’re sad it’s all over now, so to reminisce, here’s just a few of the things we learnt at Keysoe over the Bank Holiday weekend (26-28 May)…

1. The prizes were awesome (again!)

80cm winner Beccy Belcher’s prize haul

This wasn’t an ordinary unaffiliated event, this was an unaffiliated event boasting thousands of pounds worth of prizes. To give you an idea, here’s what you won if you scooped first place in any of the four classes:

£250 from KBIS to be redeemed against an insurance policy
NAF goody pack made up from

• • 1 x Ice Cool
  • 1 x Superflex 800g
  • 1 x Cooling Wash
  • 1 x Show Off
  • 1 x Leather Cleanse and Condition
  • 1 x Recover

Bates eventers pack

• • 1 x dressage saddle cloth
  • 1 x polo wraps
  • 2 x jump saddle cloths
  • 1 x stall guard

A pair of Ariat long boots
A pair of Icevibe boots
Winner’s rug
A pot of Sliverfeet liquid hoof oil
A Likit

Even better, the excellent prize haul awarded those all the way down to 10th place.

2. One competitor was supremely cool in the face of a adversity

One rider was faced with a bit of a problem when facing a bridle malfunction while going through the water complex on the cross-country, but she remained calm and both horse and rider escaped from the incident unscathed.

3. Age? It’s just a number

Whether you are 11 or 72, age really doesn’t matter. Competitors as young as 11, such as Frankie Fox who was second in the 70cm class, gave the grown-ups a run for their money. While Sally Pidsley, last year’s 70cm winner, who finished a highly creditable third in the same class this time around, is 72. Aaron Clark was also another 11-year-old competitor, who is pictured having a whale of a time below.

4. All shapes, sizes and colours of horse and pony were welcome

Large, small, bay, grey and everything in-between — all sorts of horses and ponies gave the competition their best shot. In fact, of the four classes, two winners were riding coloureds and one was on a dun. And then there was this one — a real life My Little Pony!

5. All was not lost if you didn’t make it round the cross-country

Those that didn’t complete the cross-country phase were allowed to trot-up and complete a consolation showjumping round on the final day.

6. The commentator was brilliant…

Nick Woods deserved a medal for his brilliant commentary throughout the competition. He made the event feel like Badminton and so many were full of praise for his hard work — not to mention his unwavering enthusiasm during nine hours (!) of cross-country action.

7. …As was the catering team

There were no greasy burger vans in situ at Keysoe, just delicious, fresh food, all day every day — take a bow, catering team — you were ace (as was your macaroni cheese)

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8. Takeaways do deliver to Keysoe

But if you did fancy half a duck and some crispy seaweed, the sight of one group of riders in the lorry park tucking into a Chinese confirmed the local takeaway does deliver to Keysoe.

9. Fun was had by all

From a drinks party with endless bottles of fizz to a live band and insightful demos, there was never a dull moment at the H&H Festival of Eventing, and the competitors and their supporters sure knew how to have fun!

Don’t miss the full report from the Horse & Hound Festival of Eventing in the 7 June issue of Horse & Hound magazine

For those of you who have been around for a while, you know that Horse and Man has helped The Golden Carrot almost every December.  TGC takes in the old and special needs horses – the group that usually always ends up down the long road to nowhere…  Casey showers the 40+ old timers in her care with love, great feed, supplements and meds, if needed.

Over the weekend, Casey’s home and all the horses’ feed/supplements/medications BURNED to the ground.  It was terrifying. Casey made it out with only the clothes she was wearing.  The fire was so hot, it burned completely before the Fire Department arrived.

The Golden Carrot lost all of the horse feed, the water well pump, all of the horses’ meds (previcox, bute, banamine, penicillin, SMZ, gentacin, etc,,,), supplement, feed, tack, halters, lead ropes, saddles, etc.  EVERYTHING.

If you receive this post via email, CLICK HERE TO DONATE!

The fire was so hot, everything burned to the ground before the fire department could get there. Casey was lucky have made it out.

Burned to the ground. There was nothing spared. She lost all of her personal belongings as well as all the meds, supplements, feed, tack, halters, saddles….

THIS WAS VERY TOUGH TO LOSE ALL THEIR FEED, SUPPLIES, MEDS AND SUPPLEMENTS FOR THESE 40 ELDER AND SPECIAL NEEDS HORSES… LET’S PLEASE HELP THE GOLDEN CARROT GET BACK ON THEIR FEET.

Casey is so devoted to her 40+ elder, special needs horses…  I hate to see her without the means to replace what was lost, and to carry on for these horses.

I believe in what The Golden Carrot does, I believe in helping older horses – and I also believe Horse and Man readers can spread wide arms around TGC at this time.  THANK YOU!!

The post EMERGENCY BUCKET FUND FOR THE GOLDEN CARROT – IT BURNED DOWN. PLEASE DONATE! appeared first on Horse and Man.

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