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Weight gain in horses a major concern for owners, survey finds
More than 50 per cent of horse owners said their biggest feed-related concern during lockdown was weight gain.

Researchers assess the impact of lockdown on horses' routines.

More than half of horse owners in the UK have expressed concern about their horses gaining weight during lockdown, according to new survey results.

Some 54 per cent of horse owners said their biggest feed-related concern during this time was weight gain, while 41 per cent were worried about laminitis.

The worrying findings come from an online survey conducted by feed manufacturer SPILLERS to find out more about the effects of lockdown on horses' routines.

It found that while 65 per cent of respondents had not changed their management routine during lockdown, 12 per cent said they were now turning their horses out 24/7. An additional nine per cent had introduced strip grazing or a grazing muzzle to manage grass intake.

Furthermore, it found that those who had been previously riding had now stopped and, in answering the question about feed-related concerns, 21 per cent of respondents were worried about fizzy or excitable behaviour.

In response to the findings, SPILLERS is drawing attention to its online library of resources and has produced additional tips for horse owners to minimise the risk of weight gain in their animals.

SPILLERS marketing and research development director Clare Barfoot said: “We organised the survey to see where and how people might need support and guidance for their horses during this very difficult time.

“Obesity and laminitis are serious issues, especially now that the grass is growing in abundance and, in particular, 24/7 turnout coupled with reduced exercise can significantly increase the risks. Now that the BEF has revised its advice and more people are likely to start riding again, excitable horses and fizzy behaviour may also become a bigger concern.

“We are now actively signposting owners towards our collection of online blogs, tips and advice to help owners minimise the risk of weight gain and reduce excitability in their horses.”

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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.