Iodine is very well known as it is contained in thyroid hormones e.g. thyroxin, a powerful hormone, contained largely in the thyroid gland, which controls growth and is essential for healthy metabolism, thermoregulation and reproduction. Therefore iodine is also essential...
Manganese is well known for its role in bone and cartilage formation. It is essential for the synthesis of mucopolysaccharides and chondroitin sulphate, the latter itself being needed for cartilage synthesis. It is also essential for a healthy central nervous...
Zinc is a co-factor for hundreds of enzymes in the horse’s body, several of which are required for bone formation and calcification. It supports the synthesis of chondroitin sulphate which is essential for cartilage formation. Other roles include support for...
Copper is important for multiple functions, often as a co-enzyme, e.g. lysyl oxidase which facilitates cross-linking of elastin and collagen in connectives tissues, making them stronger and more flexible e.g. tendons, ligaments, bone and cartilage. It is vital for the...
As we step into 2024, freezing temperatures are affecting horses' water intake across the UK. Cold weather can impact a horse's thirst mechanism, especially considering their increased time indoors with dry hay in winter. With horses needing 30 liters of...
Sodium and Chlorine join together to form salt (Sodium Chloride) and they have a major role in maintaining fluid balance in the horse. Because of this, these minerals are also called electrolytes. Sodium has a key role in maintaining blood...
Poor doer? Winter can be a tough season to navigate! We're here to help. Q What is a poor doer?A A horse who has a tendency to lose weight easily, irrelevant of breed, type or size Q Why does my...
Feed ad-lib hay/haylage whether your horse is stabled or in the field Feed the best quality forage you can, and have hay/haylage tested for nutritional content where possible, as hay can be as good a source of calories as haylage...
Good doer? Poor doer? Not really sure doer? Feeding in winter can be simple, or quite complicated, and as usual we ideally need to look at each individual pony or horse's needs to best establish a feeding routine which suits...
Finding the right horse feed for winter can be a challenge. With the cold weather and shorter days, horses may struggle to maintain their weight. Horse feed plays an important role in helping horses stay healthy during the winter months....
Horse rugs are an essential item for any horse owner in the UK. They provide warmth, protection and comfort during the colder months of the year, as well as a number of other benefits. With so many options on the...
Mucking out a horse stable can be an unpleasant task, but it doesn't have to be! With a few simple tips and tricks, you can quickly and easily muck out your horse stable and keep it looking spotless. In this...
