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Study reveals calming effect of magnesium
Horse rider
Magnesium can help promote a more relaxed riding experience.

Slows a horses reaction speed by over a third

Magnesium can have a calming effect on horses, according to new research.

The study, conducted by the WALTHAM Equine Studies Group and Australian collaborators, shows that magnesium can significantly slow reaction speed responses in horses.

Researchers from the Charles Sturt University in New South Wales, Australia, investigated the effects of magnesium aspartate supplementation on the reaction speeds of six Standardbred geldings.

When 10g of magnesium was added to a roughage diet (clover/ryegrass/hay), which already provided the recommended daily intake of magnesium, the horses average reaction speed slowed down by over a third.

Without the supplement, the mean response time was 5.3 meters per second. With the supplement this reduced to 3.1 meters per second.

Clare Barfoot, research and development manager at MARS Horsecare UK, said: "Although the benefits of magnesium have been well documented anecdotally, this study provides the first scientific evidence that magnesium aspartate, which is found in some behaviour supplements such as our own T.E.N. Positive Calm Behaviour Plus, may influence behaviour.”

The findings will be presented at the Equine Science Society in Florida later this month. 

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.