Training Aids for Lunging

By The Saddlery Shop's Lucy Nicholas... Lungeing is a method used to exercise a horse or to teach him something new without a rider on his back. It is also used as a replacement to riding; it lets you exercise your horse, allowing you to see his movements, which can lead to a better understanding of how your horse moves beneath you when you are in the saddle. Lungeing is often used before a horse is ridden – it’s a good way for your horse to learn human authority and allows him to adjust to being controlled and lets him become familiar with a bridle or cavesson! We have a range of items for sale to aid you with your lungeing, including the JHL Chambon for £12.99 and the Shires Lunging Aid for £39.99 - use our online search box to look for these items and others. Tips for lungeing your horse - 1.) Make sure you check that all you tack is suitable and not causing any discomfort. 2.) Try not to let your horse change direction whilst lungeing, without permission. You may need a helper to guide him from the outside. 3.) Body language is important - e.g. turning your body to make a wide, big outline when you want the horse to go forward and then turning side on, to slow him down. 4.) Stay behind your horse's shoulder to drive him forward. Visit Horse Deals for advice on training as well as to see a range of horses for sale.

What’s the difference is between a farrier’s ‘pasture trim’ and a barefoot trimmer’s ‘natural trim’?

As a retailer of horse boots for barefoot horses, many people ask us here at The Saddlery Shop what the difference is between a farrier’s ‘pasture trim’, and a barefoot trimmer’s ‘natural trim’. This can be contentious, as opinions differ. In summary, a pasture trim generally just removes excess length, and tidies chips. Not all farriers performing a pasture trim will ‘dress’ the hoof’s outer edge, eg. bevel with a mustang roll, which strengthens the hoof capsule and helps prevent cracks. A farrier’s pasture trim may also not deal with compacted (dead) sole, or major hoof imbalances, such as under-run heels. The natural trim a barefoot trimmer performs ensures the foot is properly balanced, flare is addressed, hoof wall trimmed to hard sole level, dead or compacted sole removed, and mustang roll applied. Barefoot practitioners also discuss diet and environment at each visit. The farrier’s view Mike Chawke is an RF(BngC), MF(IMFA), CE-F qualified farrier, currently based in Ireland. Mike believes there should be no difference between the two trims. “A farrier giving a so-called pasture trim should address all the relevant hoof balances, just the same as if the animal was being shod, with the exception of leaving a fraction more extended wall for wearing purposes, if the pasture is hard,” Mike explains. “I believe that only the flaky, non-essential equine sole should be removed when trimming, in most cases. Bevelling the bottom edge of the wall to prevent chipping of the bare foot should be normal farriery practise. “I’d like to add that in my opinion, any animal not requiring shoes should not be shod. Shoeing is necessary for the simple reason we wish to use these animal for purposes for which they were never intended i.e. regular enforced work on hard surfaces,” Mike added. Opinion does differ regarding trimming techniques, so seek recommendations from several hoofcare professionals before choosing one to trim your horse’s feet. Check out the range of hoofboots on our website by visiting www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk

Barefoot Hoof Care and the Trail Boot

If your horse is barefoot, it is important to be vigilant where his management is concerned in winter - this is because wet conditions can allow bacteria to thrive, leading to unhealthy feet. In addition, extensive stabling can cause problems if the horse is not on a well-draining bed. To maximise your horse’s welfare, maintain a clean stable environment, ask your farrier or trimmer to perform regular trims or checks, provide a natural, low sugar, high fibre diet, and provide the horse with as much natural movement as possible. If you are transitioning from shod to barefoot, hoof boots will allow you to continue riding on all surfaces during the transition; meanwhile, some barefooted horses may always need boots on rough, stony ground when ridden, especially if the owner’s circumstances don’t allow for optimum diet and environment. The EasyCare Trail is a popular hoof boot, and appeals to those that enjoy pleasure riding up to 25 miles. Priced from £57.99 - £69.99. Key features - • Sold in singles • Easy to apply – simple closure • Available in 11 sizes • Comfortable and lightweight • Drainage holes in sole Comfort pads are advised for use in any hoof boot, for the most natural and beneficial experience for your horse.) To quote RF(BngC), MF(IMFA), CE-F qualified farrier, Mike Chawke of Ireland’s Little Farm Stud: “Why not try leaving your animal in its natural state, and simply fit hoof boots when you want to train or exercise your barefoot horse?”

Equine Rugging Advice from The Saddlery Shop

Horses acclimatise gradually and naturally to colder and wetter weather conditions, however it is our intervention that includes clipping and grooming coat oils away that leads them to feel the cold. Some horses may not need rugging up, providing they have three key things - 1. Ad lib hay, as this forage acts as an internal heating system to provide warmth via digestion. 2. Turn out that encourages movement. 3. Suitable shelter, not just a hedge. However, if you do feel it necessary to rug, use the rug weight that you deem necessary for your horse’s breed, health status, including the animal’s age, and its environment. Choosing a size Rugs come in feet and inches, e.g. 5' 9" or 6’ 3". To check the size, using a tape measure, measure your horse from the centre of his chest, horizontally along his side, finishing at the point of his tail. If the measurement is between sizes, go up a size rather than down, to avoid rubbing. Advice • Provide ad lib hay in sheltered areas • Don’t rug too early in the year, the coat may not to develop enough, so you need to rug more • Rug your horse or pony ‘as and when’ you need to • Rug progressively - e.g. light, then medium, then heavy Rug weights • Lightweight -up to around 150g • Mediumweight - a filling of between150 - 250g. • Heavyweight rug - a filling of 250g-400g. Visit The Saddlery Shop’s rug pages for inspiration! Click here for further advice on horse care.

Horse enthusiasts - are you chomping at the bit to find out more about the fashion trends for autumn?

Horse enthusiasts - are you chomping at the bit to find out more about the fashion trends for autumn? Colours High street fashion is set to continue to look to the countryside for its inspiration to be top of the style stakes this Autumn. The hues to be seen in are lichen greens, rich blues, bright reds and for ladies, hot pink. Keep your footwear simple in classic blacks and browns, and traditional leather. Footwear Many of us are moving away from rubber boots in search for a country boot which is smarter and more multipurpose. Look out for - 1. Podiatry designed footbed systems. 2. Cosy fleece linings for added comfort. 3. Rubber outer-soles. 4. Specially-designed traction grips on the sole. Pony-loving children’s’ fashion Girls: pinks and purples are still very popular Boys: boys are getting in on the ‘brights’ trend; primary colours like blues, reds, yellows and greens are very much ‘in’ Look out for cosy kids’ fleeces with pockets in which to keep little treasures, phones or hoof picks. We like details like adjustable neck-lines, as they make a product more functional. For Christmas gifts, look out for scarves and accessory sets. They are are something you can’t have too much of – especially around horses, when everything can easily become dirty. Click here for advice on horse matters.

Going Barefoot with your Horse or Pony- Advice on Equine Barefoot Hoof Care from Lucy Nicholas

Lucy Nicholas proprietor of The Saddlery Shop and barefoot hoof care expert is the author of the JA Allen book: ‘The Barefoot Horse - an Introductory Guide to Barefoot & Booting’ in our latest blog we take a look at some helpful advice and insights into barefoot care for those horse owners interested in making the transition. Lucy says... " Many owners make the decision not to shoe their horse or pony. Going barefoot does require specific management and care; and as we know, some horses’ feet may be harder to maintain in good condition than others - often based on the owner’s available time and resources! Hence, making the transition from shoes to bare feet on a horse with less than perfect hooves may take time, patience and some investment. In order to keep your horse’s bare feet well maintained, you should consider three key points: 1.) Regular trimming. 2.) A good balanced diet containing all the essential vitamins and minerals that he needs. 3.) Exercise – this is very important in encouraging natural movement and restricting confinement. How to choose hoof boots A set of hoof boots provides adequate support and protection to the hoof when you are making the transition from shoes to bare foot - often known as ‘transitioning’ There are very many brands and types of hoof boots available, to fit very small ponies right up to large heavy horses, such as shire horses. So there is something available for almost all horses. Sizing Once you have chosen a suitable boot for your horse or pony, it needs to be correctly fitted according to the manufacturer’s instructions. There are a couple of points you should consider with regard to sizing: 1.) Does the boot go on easily? 2.) Does your horse’s hoof fill the inside of the boot in a snug fashion, without any bulging or gapping? 3.) Check that the fastenings are not too tight. You should not be able to twist the boot from side to side by anymore than 5 degrees (unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer), as this could indicate that the boot is too big or the wrong shape for your horse’s hoof. Likewise, if you are finding it difficult to get the boot on, it could well be too small, so try the next size up. This also applies if you are finding that you can only just do the fixings up. Rubbing If the boot is too small it will rub, making your horse’s foot very sore. Check the measurements again and try the next size up to see if this fits any better. Read more about hoof care here >

What is Peripheral Loading; Easing the load

There’s an increasing amount of information available in magazines and online on ‘peripheral loading’, a negative situation that occurs when the horse’s hoof wall bears excess body weight, at the expense of areas of the hoof including the sole, frog and heels. Peripheral loading occurs by degrees; there is more peripheral loading in a shod hoof standing on a flat surface, versus a bare hoof on a flat surface. There is also more peripheral loading in a bare hoof standing on a flat surface, versus a bare hoof standing on turf. Essentially, peripheral loading forms part of a wider discussion about how the horse ‘loads’, or carries bodyweight. Many elements, such as the horse’s conformation, the terrain it is ridden on, and the speed of the horse, affect the loading. Jaime Jackson, pioneer of the Association for the Advancement of Natural Horse Care Practices (AANHCP) trimming method, states that in the natural state, the equine hoof wall (including the bars) endures the primary weight-bearing responsibility of supporting the hoof, followed by the sole and frog respectively. In the natural state, the animal’s heel-bulbs also descend to aid in the weight-bearing mechanism, according to Jaime. The wild horse’s hoof wall, sole and frog are all meant to bear weight; however, shoeing a horse is believed by barefoot advocates to lift the sole and frog off the ground too much, resulting in a weak hoof wall, thin soles and small frogs. Horseshoes focus the ‘loading’ entirely upon the hoof wall, a situation that is said to reduce blood flow throughout the hoof capsule. Add a concussive surface into the mix, and you have a problem, in terms of maintaining long-term equine soundness. How do we reduce peripheral loading? We can relieve the ‘peripheral load’ by maintaining a barefoot management regime (which includes diet and professional trimming), and transferring some of the load to the sole of the horse’s foot. Solar loading appears to promote blood flow through the hoof, according to experts. It is important to remember that if you are a barefoot horse owner, your animal does not escape peripheral loading, however, – remember, it occurs by degrees, according to the surface that the hooves are load-bearing upon. However, a foam pad inside a barefoot boot drastically improves blood flow to the hooves, and offers solar support and shock absorption, providing less peripheral loading than if you were to ride the barefooted horse on a hard surface without boots. If you have a barefoot horse and plan to ride it on a surface that will increase peripheral loading (i.e., hard and concussive ground), you would be advised to use hoof boots and pads during that ride, to help reduce concussion. Check out The Saddlery Shop’s range of hoof boots and comfort pads at www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk

Falabella jewellery - perfect for Christmas and beyond

Online retailer The Saddlery Shop offers a beautiful range of beautiful sterling silver jewellery that makes the ideal gift for friends or loved ones. Falabella jewellery is cast in 925 sterling silver and has a brilliant no-tarnish, rhodium finish. The range includes a variety of rings, necklaces, earrings and a selection of stock pins perfect for competing and hunting in style. Why not check out The Falabella Sterling Silver Horse Shoe Earrings (Price £19.99)? The set comes with a presentation box and the earrings are crystal set, with a large crystal drop and stem and butterfly fastenings. Or consider The Falabella Sterling Silver Horse Shoe Stock Pin (Price £42.99) pictured above as featured in Horse Magazine is set with graduated crystals and boasts a roller safety clasp. It comes complete with presentation box and is the perfect way to add a subtle touch of ‘bling’ to your show outfit. To see the full range of beautiful jewellery that any horse lover or fashionista will treasure, visit our website today at www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk

Bitting Advice from The Saddlery Shop

Bits can be a confusing subject - as you will see from the wide selection available at The Saddlery Shop, there are many available on the market; but how do you know which is the right one for your horse; and could you be using the wrong bit for your horse or pony? In this blog post, we offer some simple advice! The mouthpiece of the bit is an aid for communication between rider and horse, and in very simplified terms, is used to regulate speed and direction. The bit rings or cheek pieces are designed to aid rider communication. So how do bits actually work? Bits are just part of the communication process between rider and horse, and exert pressure on some or all of the following parts of a horse’s mouth, internally: The bars (the gummy sections between the incisor and molar teeth) Roof of the mouth Tongue – especially the sensitive edges Lips and corners of the mouth Externally, bits put pressure on the following parts of the horse’s mouth: Poll areas beneath the headpiece of the bridle The curb groove which is the ‘hollow’ just above the chin Dressage ‘legal’ bits Under British Dressage affiliated rules, there is a relatively small selection of bits that is permitted to be used when competing. They include: Loose ring snaffle Eggbutt snaffle Snaffle with jointed mouthpiece Racing snaffle D-ring Eggbutt snaffle with cheeks Loose ring snaffle with cheeks Snaffle with upper cheeks only Hanging cheek snaffle Straight bar snaffle (also permitted with mullen mouth and eggbutt rings) Snaffle with rotating mouthpiece Double jointed snaffle with a roller in the centre Rubber, nylon and other synthetic materials are permitted are some of the specialist ranges such as Myler and Sprenger It is advisable to remember that when competing in dressage, we should ideally select the ‘kindest’ dressage-legal bit your horse is most comfortable with. If you enjoy other disciplines such as showjumping, you may require a bit with a more decisive action, so gags or Pelham bits are popular choices. Always make sure you maintain regular equine dental checks, to prevent any issues in your horse’s mouth that will make him sore and resistant to working and accepting his bit. Click here for advice on Dressage >

Get the perfect show jumping position

First of all for show jumping, your stirrups will need to be shorter than usual so that you can raise comfortably out of the saddle, allowing your horse to use his neck and create a bascule shape. Keep your heels down and have a slight bend in your knee while keeping your lower leg position still and not allowing it to drift backwards. Fold forwards, keep looking ahead between your horses ears and move your hands a little up the horse’s neck to allow him freedom to stretch over the fence. If you hinder your horse by not giving enough with your hands he will find it very difficult to jump correctly and will also get out of balance over a fence. As soon as you land, resume your normal riding position straight away. Top tips for accomplishing a secure lower leg position when show jumping: 1. Keep the weight right down into your stirrups and your heels down – this will prevent your lower leg from swinging back too far which can encourage your horse to speed up and also make your seat very insecure 2. Practise your jumping position without your stirrups – firstly in halt and then progress to walk, trot and canter. 3. Learn to develop an eye for a stride by counting into each fence – this will help you to avoid taking up your forward jumping position too early or too late both of which will make your seat insecure and give you an uncomfortable ride. 4. Practise with bounce fences, designed so that your horse will not put any strides between each jump ensuring that you maintain your jumping position throughout the grid. 5. Set up some grids and doubles (two fences with one or two non jumping strides between them) to help you to develop adjustability with your upper body position. 6. There are stirrups available which incorporate a special shock absorbing system to help achieve better balance and provide greater comfort for the rider. For example, the Sprenger Bow Balance Stirrup available from The Saddlery Shop have a wider stirrup pad made from a dual density rubber stirrup tread. The patented stirrup irons feature a four-link mechanism which adapt perfectly to the riders movements which therefore softens the impact on cartilage and ligaments of the rider’s limbs. To see a range of Equine Tack, including the Sprenger Bow Balance Stirrup and a range of equestrian equipment visit the website at www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk Browse the latest show jumpers for sale here >

The Saddlery Shop Showcases The Floating Hoof Boot!

The floating boots available from The Saddlery Shop are a revolutionary new hoof boot, designed to be able to be form fitted to the horses hoof where required, and the only hoof boot made to fit a front or hind foot shape! This said, with fit being paramount with boots, there are occasions when a front boot may be more suited to your horses hind feet and vice versa, so if in doubt please contact The Saddlery Shop or use our hoof boot enquiry form and we can advise which size and style would be best. Floating boots are one of the most modern performance hoof boots, designed in Spain in conjunction with a vet and have been used for top level endurance. Floating boots are particularly suited to barefoot horse owners who are more confident with hoof boots, have at least a partly transitioned horse (at least some concavity) and are looking for a very lightweight, high performance hoof boot. They are not designed to be used with pads (but do have a rubberised inner sole), so are not suited to transitioning hooves, they are designed as ongoing hoof protection being ideal for endurance riders or situations where the horse needs work at speed over varying terrain for long periods. The centre of the boot has an innovative lattice which allows the boot to naturally flex with the hoof as the horse takes a step, and the design of the boot ensures that water is expelled as the horse moves out of the body of water. The shell is very tough, and can be heat fitted and 'slotted' at the front (in a similar way to the 'Swiss' horse boots) to obtain a customer fit and breakover where required. The gaiter of the boot offers a very secure fit, and are a combination of a rubber outer (with spaces for the heel bulbs) and a neoprene 'sock' liner than helps to prevent any rubs. This new design has been shown to eliminate rubbing for most horses, the gaiter design fits higher at the front of the boot allowing for a very secure fit over all terrains. And did we mention that the weight per boot is only around 300g! Available from The Saddlery Shop today alongside a range of Hoof Boots including brands such as Renagade, Equine Fusion, Easycare and much more The Floating Boots are sold in pairs and offered in Black only, priced at £169.99 per pair.

Choosing a Turnout Rug

For many horse owners, it is now time to start rugging our horses and ponies. But before you go shopping for turnout rugs decided what you require the rug to offer. Most of us require our equine's rugs to provide warmth and protection, but you may also need a turnout rug to keep the horse clean, or the rug itself may need a tough outer shell or specific fastenings to suit your horse’s foibles! In addition consider environmental factors, e.g. whether your horse is stabled at night, and whether his field provides protection in the form of a wind-breaking hedge or shelter. If you are not going to be doing much riding over the winter and your horse doesn’t need an extensive clip, you can of course let his natural coat grow, and can therefore avoid over-rugging. Different breeds and types of horses may require heavier or lighter types of rugs; for example a sensitive, thin skinned Thoroughbred is likely to require a thicker rug than a hardy, native breed; some horses manage without rugs at all, as long as they have adequate shelter. The first task when selecting a turnout rug is to measure your horse, so you can choose a rug which will offer comfort and protection. Sizes for rugs are presented in feet and inches, for example a 5' 9" or 6’ 3". Tie your horse up safely and using a tape measure, measure your horse from the centre of his chest, horizontally along his side, finishing at the point of his tail. Remember if your horse is between sizes, you’re usually better to go up a size than down, as rugs that are too small can rub. Innovative manufacturers stocked by The Saddlery Shop offer a huge range of autumn and winter rugs, including a variety of different materials and styles. A basic rug shape that stops at the horse’s withers, covering the body with no neck cover, is usually described as Standard. A rug that covers the horse’s neck is often referred to as a Combo Rug or Integrated Neck. It is also possible to purchase turnout and stable rugs with Detachable Neck Covers. If you are only looking for something to keep your horse clean and dry whilst he turned out and you are not too concerned about your horse laying down a thick coat, a lightweight rug with no filling, or a light filling up to around 150g, would suffice. Many people find that a medium weight rug, which usually has a filling of between150 - 250g, is useful to start the winter off with; however some horses can manage with a medium weight rug right through winter-time. If you have a fully clipped horse, or one that feels the cold, then you are probably going to need a heavyweight rug, which will have 250g-400g filling. For more information about the wide range of equine rugs, suitable for all different budgets why not visit The Saddlery Shop? With brands such as Horseware, Mark Todd, Weatherbeeta and Rambo all available at discounted prices The Saddlery Shop should be your first stop for all your rugging needs!

New to The Saddlery Shop; the Highly Acclaimed Renegade Hoof Boots!

The Saddlery Shop has built up a reputation for being the country’s leading authority on booting barefoot horses, holding the largest stocks of hoof boots and accessories in the UK. Brand new to the extensive range are the Renegade Hoof Boots! Extremely popular in the USA these striking boots are available in a wide selection of sizes with an extensive fitting guide provided on the website www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk. Kirt Lander the inventor of the innovative Renegade Boots has been heavily involved in the field of "Natural Hoof Care" for many years prior to his design project of the Renegade Hoof Boots which took over three years to develop and underwent rigorous testing. Featuring unique pivoting heel captivator technology; if properly sized, fitted, adjusted and installed, the Renegade Hoof Boot will not rub, not even for distances of 100 miles (Tevis proven) and requires no accessories whatsoever to accomplish this feat. The Renegade Hoof Boot may have been a long time coming but its arrival represents the unleashing of the inherent performance potential of the barefoot performance horse, providing them with the extra protection they need to achieve unprecedented levels of performance over the toughest of terrain. Renegades are supplied in pairs of the same size, one left, one right hoof boot in Black only from The Saddlery Shop. Priced at £169.99; pick up your pair today!

Save £40 on the NEW Dublin River Boots and Look Great this Autumn!

The NEW waterproof Dublin River Boot is the latest addition to the Highly popular Dublin River Boot range offered by The Saddlery Shop. The classically styled, waterproof, leather country boot is made from Redskin leather with an HBR waterproof and breathable membrane to keep feet cool and dry. The River Boots include a RCS footbed system for all day comfort support and cushioning and sweat control lining. The new waterproof Dublin River Boot is ideal for Autumn and perfect both at the yard and on the high street! So whether you need a functional pair of boots for completing yard chores, walking the dog or looking country chic on days out, these are the perfect boots for you. Available from The Saddlery Shop in Black, Dark Brown or Chocolate styles, in a wide variety of sizes. Snap up your pair today- offered at just £109.99 until Monday at Midnight saving you a massive £40!

Get Ready for Autumn with Gorgeous Sale Clothing from The Saddlery Shop

With Autumn on the near horizon The Saddlery Shop are celebrating the start of a new season by adding a selection of our fabulous clothing range to the Deals of the Week section of our website! Layer up for the autumn months with a host of short sleeved and long sleeved polo shirts and gorgeous, fashionable hoodies and rugby shirts including brands such as Horseware, Dublin, Harry Hall, Puffa and Townend! Colours include perrenial favourite pink, as well as winter hues such as purples, plums and berry blue tones! To find out more visit the website today at www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk and get ready for autumn and winter in style!

Spring into Action with Stirrups for Jumping

If you enjoy jumping, then you may benefit from a shock absorbing stirrup iron such as the Sprenger Stirrups available from The Saddlery Shop. For jumping, your stirrups need to be short enough so that you can comfortably get your seat out of the saddle, allowing your horse to bascule (create an arc) through your legs. Your heels must stay down, and you need to have a bend in the knee, keeping your lower leg position the same and not allowing it to drift backwards. You should lean forwards, look ahead to where you are going, and move your hands a little up the horse’s neck to allow him freedom. He will be unable to jump correctly if you hinder him by not giving enough with your hands, or get out of balance with him over a fence. When your jump is complete, you need to be able to get back into the normal riding position easily. Familiarise yourself by practising without jumps – get it right whilst in halt in front of an arena mirror or with a friend to monitor you, learning to hold the position for a while and maintain your balance until it is comfortable. Next, progress to walk, trot and canter. A common mistake is to allow your lower leg to swing too far back, inadvertently encouraging your horse to speed up. Keeping the weight into your stirrups with your heels well down should prevent this happening. Using stirrups such as the Sprenger range which incorporate a shock absorbing system can help with this. The Sprenger Bow Balance Stirrup, currently available from The Saddlery Shop with 20% off, provides an improved leg position, resulting in better balance and greater comfort for the rider. Shock absorbing grip is achieved by a wider stirrup pad, made from a dual density rubber stirrup tread. The patented stirrup irons feature a four-link mechanism which adapt perfectly to the riders movements, thereby softening the impact on cartilage and ligaments of the rider's limbs. The four links in the side of the bow balance allow movement in four directions at the same time also enabling immediate release in case of an emergency. The Sprenger stirrup is the only stirrup in the world which has dual lateral flexibility thereby softening the impact on cartilage and ligaments. One of the biggest benefits alongside offer better security in the saddle and a more correct foot position is the relief of tension in the hips, knees, ankles and calves which benefits riders that are suffering from or prone to injury or strain ideal for busy, hardworking regular riders. The Sprenger Bow Balance Stirrups and the Sprenger System Stirrups are currently being offered by The Saddlery Shop with 20% off . Why not visit the website today at www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk to snap up your pair for a safer, more correct position in the saddle- especially important when jumping?

Guide to Training Aids with The Saddlery Shop; part 6 of 6

In our blog series The Saddlery Shop have been taking a look at the range of training aids available for riding and lunging our horses. There are many products available that may be used to aid the equine training process and whilst no training aid can replace correct riding it can offer a useful tool to be used in certain instances. In this final edition of the six part blog blog series we are reviewing the final training aid- The Pessoa, but if you have missed out on early editions in the series just visit the website to learn more about the Market Harborough, the De Gogue,the Chambon, Draw Reins and the Harbridge! Training Aid 6: The Pessoa The Pessoa aims to help strengthen the horse’s back, stretch the top line and gently encourage the horse to work correctly. The system utilises the holistic philosophies of the great Nelson Pessoa, and importantly, does not create a rigidly fixed contact between the horse's mouth and girth. Designed to be used while lunging, the Pessoa employs a sympathetic system of ropes and pulleys that can be formatted differently by the handler to give different levels of adjustment. The Saddlery Shop stocks the Genuine Pessoa for £104.99, as well as the Shires Lunging Aid, developed in the style of a Pessoa, and costing a budget-friendly £39.99.

Guide to Training Aids with The Saddlery Shop; part 5 of 6

In our latest blog series The Saddlery Shop are taking a look at the range of training aids available for riding and lunging our horses. There are many products available that may be used to aid the equine training process and whilst no training aid can replace correct riding it can offer a useful tool to be used in certain instances. In our blog series we are set to showcase some of the most popular- all of which available from The Saddlery Shop! Training Aid 5: The De Gogue training aid features straps that run from the girth to the headpiece of the bridle, to the bit, and back to the girth again. It aims to address resistance in the poll, mouth and base of the neck, and is said to free the shoulders and encourage muscled top line development. Showjumper David McPherson has advocated careful use of the De Gogue, saying it can help produce a good shape when the horse is working on the flat, with the back rounded, and the hocks engaged. The De Gogue can be used for both lungeing and for ridden work, but should be gradually introduced by an experienced rider, making sure the horse is correctly warmed up first. The Saddlery Shop stocks the Shires, JHL and HY De Gogue with prices starting at just £17.63!

Guide to Training Aids with The Saddlery Shop; part 4 of 6

In our latest blog series The Saddlery Shop are taking a look at the range of training aids available for riding and lunging our horses. There are many products available that may be used to aid the equine training process and whilst no training aid can replace correct riding it can offer a useful tool to be used in certain instances. In our blog series we are set to showcase some of the most popular- all of which available from The Saddlery Shop! Training Aid 4: Chambon The Chambon is used solely for lungeing our horses and ponies and the system encourages the horse to work in self carriage, in a long and low outline. The Chambon training aid has lines which attach to the bit, and run up the cheekpieces of the Bridle, through loops on a poll headpiece. The Chambon is ideal for the early stages of a horse’s education or in retraining. It’s effective for horses who go in a hollow outline, with their head up, back dropped and quarters trailing encouraging the horse to work in a longer, lower outline, using the muscles over the back, quarters and neck. However, it has no effect on the hindquarters, and it does creates poll leverage, so must be used with care. The Saddlery Shop stocks a range Chambons including JHL, HY and Shires with prices starting from just £12.99!

Guide to Training Aids with The Saddlery Shop; part 3 of 6

In our latest blog series we are going to take a look at the range of training aids for riding and lunging our horses. There are many products available that may be used to aid the equine training process and whilst no training aid can replace correct riding it can offer a useful tool to be used in certain instances. In our blog series we are set to showcase some of the most popular- all of which available from The Saddlery Shop! Training Aid 3: The Market Harborough The Market Harborough is designed to help stop the horse lifting its head above a set level. It is similar to a martingale, but has a stronger action, as the leverage is on the bit. The breast strap loops round the girth and comes between the horse’s forelegs, via a neck strap, before splitting into two. These go through the bit rings and then clip on to special reins that have small rings placed along them to allow adjustment. the Market Harborough is popular with showjumpers and is useful for improving the acceptance of the contact, encouraging a greater suppleness of the back through a rounder outline, increasing the looseness of the paces through suppleness whilst developing the topline muscles. The Saddlery Shop stocks the JHL, Shires and HY Market Harborough with prices starting from just £22.30.

Guide to Training Aids with The Saddlery Shop; part 2 of 6

In our latest blog series we are going to take a look at the range of training aids for riding and lunging our horses. There are many products available that may be used to aid the equine training process and whilst no training aid can replace correct riding it can offer a useful tool to be used in certain instances. In our blog series we are set to showcase some of the most popular- all of which available from The Saddlery Shop! Training Aid 2: Draw reins Draw reins (or running reins) are used under saddle to help the horse learn to maintain a light contact with the bit, while freely moving forward and ‘carrying himself’. Dressage trainer Dane Rawlins has said that correctly used draw reins can be a beneficial schooling aid. “They can be a very good influence for a horse that is unsettled in the mouth. I only ever use them with an ordinary snaffle bit and would emphasise that it is vital they are used properly,” he has stated. Draw reins can be useful for encouraging a better head position and rounder frame when riding. The reins pass through the bit rings and attach to the girth under the rider’s legs; or the reins go through the bit rings and then down to the girth between the horse’s forelegs. Some also use them for lungeing, running from the saddle D-rings or roller top rings, through the bit rings and to the girth between the forelegs, but adjustment is difficult. The reins put pressure on the bit and therefore the bars and corners of the mouth, which should be released by the rider once the horse returns to a rounder frame. With the reins fitted between the forelegs, there’s a downward pressure; a higher fitting produces a more upward pressure. Draw reins can be beneficial when used correctly to encourage a consistent outline, encourage acceptance of the contact, help to build the horse's topline and increase suppleness of the back. The Saddlery Shop stocks draw reins in leather and synthetic material from suppliers such as Aerborn, Shires, Mark Todd and HY. Prices start from just £5.99 so why not visit the website www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk and find out more today! Remember to always consult an expert prior to use if you are unsure how to use any equine training aid.

Guide to Training Aids with The Saddlery Shop; part 1 of 6

In our latest blog series we are going to take a look at the range of training aids for riding and lunging our horses. There are many products available that may be used to aid the equine training process and whilst no training aid can replace correct riding it can offer a useful tool to be used in certain instances. In our blog series we are set to showcase some of the most popular- all of which available from The Saddlery Shop! Training Aid 1: The Harbridge The Harbridge has proved invaluable for all disciplines and abilities, since it aims to imitate the perfect pair of rider’s hands. The Harbridge encourages horses at any standard to work with classical lines, and also helps to encourages lightness and self carriage. No direct input is required from the rider to make the training aid work and the elasticated panels ensure the horse receives a flexible contact. The product is said to help improve the paces and afford greater engagement and control, and may be used for trotting poles, grid work and small fences, since it enhances bascule without any interference to the mouth. The Saddlery Shop stocks Harbridges from manufacturers Shires and Kincade, from £13.49.

Pessoa Lunging Aids available from The Saddlery Shop

The Saddlery Shop currently has on offer a selection of genuine Pessoa Lunging Aids available in Pony, Cob and full and priced at just £104.99! The pessoa training aid is a revolutionary lunging aid for horses that strengthens the back, stretches the top line and gentle encourages the horse to work correctly. The Pessoa training aid should be used for frequent short sessions for best effect, and encourages the horse to work rather than using force. The pessoa training aid persuades and suggests which is the philosophy of the great Nelson Pessoa, and gives long lasting results under saddle as a result. An important difference between the pessoa and other schooling aids is that it does not create a rigidly fixed contact between the horse's mouth & girth. Schooling aids that allow this to happen are notorious for creating an over bent outline with the horse working too much on its forehand and too little from behind. The pessoa training aid works to free the back muscles so that the horse can use them for balance, impulsion and support for both himself and the riders weight. Useful for fit horses to maintain their muscle tone, it also helps youngsters begin their work in the right shape. The rope used in the Pessoa is far superior than in cheaper copies, and this is a vital reason the pessoa works as well as it does. To snap up yours today visit The Saddlery Shop or Tel: 0844 880 6900 for more details!

Assessing Grazing and Pasture

The Saddlery Shop is especially interested in research into grazing and pasture, as many of our customers own barefoot horses and buy their hoof boots from us. Diet is key for all horse's health, whether shod or bare; however with the bare hoof there is nowhere to hide! In our latest blog we feature a post inspired by the article written by Dr Carol Michael, director of Life Science company Phytorigins, and published on farmersguardian.com, as well as a blog post by www.rockleyfarm.co.uk . Rockley Farm in Exmoor is run by Nic Barker and Andy Willis, and is a leading equine rehabilitation hub that aims to improve soundness by allowing each horse to grow the healthiest hooves possible. So let’s take a look at why not all grass is created equal – and why horses can have problems with grazing. Nic Barker from Rockley Farm says… “The research was flagged up in an article and one of the encouraging aspects is the acknowledgement that UK grass has the potential to be very dangerous for horses, particularly in spring and autumn. Of course we all knew that already but its great to see an article aimed at farmers pointing out that horses very often simply can’t tolerate the high sugar levels in our grazing. The research project set out to analyse sugar content of old pasture species from a hill farm in North Wales and compare the sugar levels with more modern types of grass such as perennial rye. Horses at Rockley can graze our grass very safely. We don’t turn them out 24/7 because its essential for their feet that they spend time on the tracks but most horses cope extremely well with grazing here, even those who have been diagnosed with metabolic problems or who can only tolerate very limited grazing back home. Like the hill farm in the study, our fields have a wide range of different plants and grasses in them and horses also have access to the hedges and some wooded areas while they are turned out – both on the tracks and in the fields. A study of plants undertaken by the National Park at Rockley some years ago found 38 different herbs and grasses in one field alone and – interestingly – noted that the scrubby, apparently “low value” grazing areas were favourite areas for the ponies who were kept here then. By contrast, many modern fields have a very limited number of grasses and so the biodiversity available to grazing horses is restricted. This can be a problem because horses, unlike cattle, have evolved to thrive on high fibre, low sugar diets and love to forage on shrubs and other plants rather than graze exclusively. Ryegrass is a favourite in modern farming because its good for producing beef and dairy cattle, but horses need a very different diet. For horses, the most dangerous part about ryegrass is the sugar levels and this is what the study was aiming to quantify. When they compared the fructose contents of the ryegrass vs the hill grasses the difference was shocking. The new variety of perennial ryegrass is the highest with a 332mg/g fructose content in comparison to 0.52mg/g in Meadow Fescue. So its pretty clear that horses who can safely graze old permanent pasture can quickly develop serious problems, especially as they love the sweet, sugary taste of ryegrass! And in a double-whammy the short, sweet grass often contains not just too much sugar but not enough fibre! This lack of fibre can lead to obvious, immediate veterinary emergencies like colic and laminitis but also slower, insidious damage which results from consistently high levels of sugar in the diet – metabolic problems like PPID (cushings) and insulin resistance which take longer to develop but are just as damaging. Its fantastic that research like this has been completed because for too long horses and their owners have been suffering from the consequences of inappropriate grazing but without having many solutions or alternatives, especially if grazing needs to be restricted. Now horse owners have a real chance to not only develop better management systems for our horses but also use better grasses and grazing so that they can be more safely turned out and have the sorts of lifestyles which they and we love.” A range of hoof boots and accessories are available from The Saddlery Shop, visit the website at www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk

Snap up the gorgeous Dublin Defy Boots!

The Dublin Defy Boots have just been included in the special section of The Saddlery Shop's website known as "Deals of the Week". Though the majority of our items are below the RRP the items which make it to the Deals of the Week are always particular bargains or special items! The Dublin Defy Zip Up Jodhpur Boots are a traditionally styled ladies riding boot built to last, with a full grain leather upper and strong rubber sole. These stylish Dublin zip up jodhpur boots have an outer sole with lateral and medial support ensures a correct lower leg position in the saddle and a positive Stirrup Traction on the sole to ensures a close contact feel in the stirrup and multidirectional grip on the yard. These practical and stylish zip fronted jodhpur boots have heel and arch supports cradle the foot and keep it from rolling and steel shanks to provide both strength and a natural flexibility and springiness for riders out at the yard all day. Dublin Defy Jodhpur Boots feature a breathable mesh insole to aid circulation keeping the foot cool and dry and an easy clean sole. Ideal for competing when paired with leather gaiters or for everyday riding at home! In addition there is a FREE pair of Dublin socks with these boots, while stocks last! Available in sizes 4-8 in Black or Brown. Visit the website today at www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk

The Ice Vibe Range with 10% off at The Saddlery Shop

The Ice-Vibe boots designed by Horseware Ireland and offered by The Saddlery Shop are rechargeable vibrating boots that help to boost circulation in horse's legs by creating a massage effect. The innovative boots combine the effects off cooling and massage therapy to effectively treat strains, ligament and tendon damage. The massage effect helps to stimulate the lymph system to remove soreness and swelling as well as improving circulation. Everyday wear and tear on joints can be managed with daily use of the boots and rehabilitation through injury can be achieved more effectively. The boots can be used to 1.) Prepare: Using the boots before you ride can assist you to prepare your horses legs for exercise in the stable. 2.) Treat: After exercise you can use the vibrating boots with the inner cold packs creating cold circulation, and to 3.) Repair: Assists your horse to repair wear and tear whilst in the stable or out in the field, both before and after exercise. The Saddlery Shop is proud to offer the Ice Vibe range including the Ice Vibe Boot, Cold Therapy Pack, Ice Vibe Hock Therapy Boot, Ice Vibe Knee Boots and a range of extra supply equipment to compliment the range. Now featuring 10% off the entire range! Visit the website today www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk to pick up your pair today!

A Bit of Bling without Breaking the Bank!

Are you desperate to bring a bit of bling to you or your horse or pony's equestrian attire but don't have a huge budget to add the glitz and glamour? Then look no further than the Bling Snaffle Bridle designed by Cottage Craft and retailed by The Saddlery Shop for just £37.50! This chic black leather bridle is made from fine English leather with stunning diamante detailing on the browband and the noseband. This luxurious, yet subtle 'bling' snaffle bridle comes complete with rubber reins and is ideal for everyday wear or for the finer occasions such as the Dressage or Show Jumping ring! Available today whilst stocks last alongside a wide range of other functional and stylish bridles and leather work. Visit the website www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk

Fantastic Innovation; the Waterproof Fly Rug from The Saddlery Shop!

Whether to apply a lightweight rug or a fly rug during the summer months when it looks like it may rain is long standing dilemma. Not anymore, with the fantastic innovative from Shires Equestrian as the Shires Performance Maxi Flow Fly Rug provides the benefits of a fly rug with the convenience of a waterproof rug with no need to swap and change! Available from The Saddlery Shop the Shires Maxi Flow Fly Rug has a 600 denier rip stop waterproof top section to keep horses dry from unexpected downpours whilst the integrated lower section is composed of maxi-flow mesh to encourage airflow and protect against flies. Equipped with a neck cover, adjustable belly flap for maximum coverage, buckled double breast straps, shoulder gussets, adjustable leg straps and a large tail flap! Available in sizes from 4'6"-7'0" from The Saddlery Shop today. Snap up this innovative rug whilst stocks last so your equine is prepared for every weather eventuality this season!

A Look at Grazing Muzzles with The Saddlery Shop

Lucy Nicholas of online retailer The Saddlery Shop offers this advice on restricting grazing with a muzzle this spring, for horses prone to weight gain or laminitis. They are something of a necessary evil for some owners, but a grazing muzzle can be a useful tool. By using a muzzle, your horse can still be moving around the field and socialising, but will be getting limited spring grass that has high levels of non-structural carbohydrates (NSC). Top Tips! 1.Introduce the muzzle gradually by starting off using it in the stable - reward your horse with a treat through the hole in the muzzle when you put it on and take it off. Once outside, feed grass through the hole to help him understand the principle. Leave the muzzle on for short periods, gradually building up the time it is on. 2.Most manufacturers recommend leaving a muzzle on up to a maximum of 12 hours, so don’t leave on for too long, as you may restrict the passage of food too much! 3.Remember that grass needs to be at least two inches long for ponies to be able to draw up some grass and not get too frustrated. If your horse is hungry and cross, this is not a good scenario! Dengie Horse Feeds performed a preliminary scientific study nine years ago to see how much grazing muzzles restricted grass intake. Bite depth, weight, area and volume were measured to ‘determine the effects of a grazing muzzle on bite parameters’ - the study showed a 75% to 86% reduction of intake. In addition to a comprehensive range of spring and summer items including a wide range of grazing muzzles, The Saddlery Shop offers a selection of great summer rugs, all below RRP. The site offers free delivery for orders over £75, and £4.99 for orders £75 and under. Visit www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk.

The Saddlery Shop now offers Neue Schule Bits!

The Neue Schule collection of bits offer an innovative range of bits for horses and ponies across all disciplines including hacking, jumping, showing and dressage. Neue Schule bits are ergonomically designed, curved and many include the trade mark lozenge. The Neue Schule innovation and designs are driven by the needs of horse and rider. This holistic approach represents a “new school” in bit design philosophy whilst years of first hand practical experience is distilled into any new design. Neue Schule leave no stone unturned and their development process include computer models and simulations followed by practical trials. The Saddlery Shop is now proud to offer a selection of over 50 Neue Schule bits including loose ring snaffles, full cheek bits, Pelhams, Eggbutts and Waterfords to name but a few. Why not visit the website today at www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk to see the Neue Schule bits available.

Protect your Horse with a Fly Rug from The Saddlery Shop

A fly rug or fly sheet, is a lightweight horse rug often used during the summer months to keep a horse both cool and protected from sunburn and bites from the flies and insects often taking up residence in the pasture at this time of year. The spring and summer months can be a dangerous time for horses in the paddock as just like humans, horses are susceptible to sunburn. Some horses will have skin that is extremely sensitive to intensive sunlight and UV rays, so fly rugs are not only a sensible purchase – they can be an absolute necessity too. The sun can also cause substantial damage to a horse’s coat, and if you’re competing on a regular basis, this could affect your chances of making an impression in the show ring! A Fly Rug also keeps your horse’s coat shiny by preventing a build up of dust and dirt. A Fly Sheet ensures the main body of the horse is fully protected from biting insects which can cause problems such as infections and sores. Some fly rugs are equipped with belly flaps and neck covers can help to offer a further buffer from harmful and irritating insects. Fly masks can also be essential to protect the equine eyes from pesky flies and in some cases certain designs can prevent a pink nose from becoming painfully effected by sunburn. The Saddlery Shop stocks a wide range of horse rugs from turnouts to fly rugs, all offered at some of the lowest prices on the Internet. We are one of the largest suppliers of Horseware rugs in the UK, plus we offer a range of other well known brands including Mark Todd and Weatherbeeta in each section to fit every budget. Why not visit the website today to see the range of fly rugs and summer rugs to keep your horse protected and comfortable? www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk

Fashion on a Budget with The Saddlery Shop

The Saddlery Shop was recently featured in Local Rider Magazine looking at how to stay in fashion and keep up with equestrian styles on a budget. Here is what the article had to say on keeping you 'in-vogue' in the saddle without breaking the bank! "If you are looking to splurge your cash this spring on some riding wear, then you will be pleased to know there are some great offers to be had to help stretch your pennies and pounds further. One of the best ways to shop wisely is to purchase slightly out of season - if you buy last Autumn’s stock now, you will find the garments are cheaper than the new spring/summer 2014 items, although they are exactly the same weight and composition, as a warm Autumn day and a chilly Spring day are very similar! Naturally when purchasing riding wear, look out for clever design elements like a bottom zipper that can be unzipped when in the saddle, longer sleeves that allow for warm wrists when riding with the arms bent, and close fitting garments that don’t flap about. Breathable materials are of course comfortable on a chilly day that may see you working up a sweat in the saddle! Designers are always coming up with clever additions for your comfort, such as adjustable drawstrings to allow for different thickness of layers, or wrist gaiters to exclude draughts! Colour wise, the typical equestrian / countryside colours are still fashionable, and probably always will be - chocolate browns, dark greens and sky-blues are perennial favourites, reflecting the natural colours of the countryside. For kids, bold primary colours for boys and purples, lilacs and pinks for girls continue to be popular.' A huge range of equestrian clothing bargains are available from The Saddlery Shop including fashionable clothing for men, women and children alike. Why not visit the website today and snap up a bargain on spring clothing such as T-shirts, fleeces, jackets and much, much more?

The Saddlery Shop - best for boots!

Online retailer The Saddlery Shop is one of the largest retailers of hoof boots for barefoot horses. This means consumers can get excellent deals, in terms of price and stock range of styles and sizes; however most importantly, they will get specialist service and advice on barefoot ‘booting’. “Hoof booting is a specialist subject,” explains The Saddlery Shop’s co-proprietor Lucy Nicholas, author of the popular JA Allen book, ‘The Barefoot Horse - an Introduction to Barefoot Hoofcare and Hoof Boots’. “We hold the largest stock of hoof boots and accessories in the UK, and own barefoot horses; hence, we have extensive experience regarding fitting the right make and model of boot to the horse in question,” Lucy explains. “It certainly isn’t a case of ‘one boot fits all’.” The Saddlery Shop offers free advice, and produces a Measuring Guide for customers, which allows them to provide a detailed enquiry if they are interested in purchasing hoof boots. “We believe that our booting experts are the most experienced in the country, in terms of sheer numbers of boots advised on, and sold - we regularly 'remotely fit’ boots with good results, and also help advise customers on limitations to the success of their barefoot regime, for example their horse’s trim or diet. Hoof boot enquiries are generally answered within four working hours,” Lucy adds. To see the wide range of hoof boots and huge host of other equestrian equipment at below RRP prices, visit the website: www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk

Fabulous Discounted Shires Rugs from The Saddlery Shop

The Saddlery Shop stocks a wide range of horse rugs from turnouts to fly rugs, all offered at some of the lowest prices on the Internet. We are one of the largest suppliers of Shires, Horseware, Mark Todd and Weatherbeeta rugs in the UK, to fit every budget. We currently have some fabulous Shires rugs included in the Deals of the Week section of our website which are ideal for the Spring months. The Shires Tempest Original is a medium weight rug with a fill of 180grams and a ripstop 600 denier Shiretex waterproof outer providing a breathable outer shell. If you prefer rugs with a neck the Shires Tempest Combo is the one for you. Also with a fill of 180grams but including an integrated, contoured neck cover. For the warmer spring months the Shires Tempest 100 is ideal with a lesser fill of 100grams when a heavier rug is too warm. All the Shires rugs we have on offer are fully lined with clip breast straps, adjustable cross surcingles, fillet straps and tail flaps. Prices Shires Tempest Original £44.99 Shires Tempest Combo £55.79 Shires Tempest 100 £43.19

The RX Therapeutic Hoof Boot from The Saddlery Shop

Did you know The Saddlery Shop has built up a reputation for being the country’s leading authority on booting barefoot horses, holding the largest stocks of hoof boots and accessories in the UK? We also offer free specialist hoof boot advice by email from our booting experts, which include Lucy Nicholas one of our directors and author of 'The Barefoot Horse'. The Easyboot RX is a therapy boot for horses that need relief from lower limb or hoof disorders. It also speeds recovery and offers protection to the hoof and lower limb after surgery or injury, and lessens fatigue and adds protection during transport. It is also recommended to help rehabilitate horses with chronic laminitis. The sole is made from a durable, soft material, and three air vents provide air circulation to keep the hoof cool, while preventing debris accumulation. Easycare comfort pad included. Not intended for riding, but can be used for light turnout. To see the range of hoof boots available from The Saddlery Shop including the Easyboot RX why not visit the website today www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk or Tel: 0844 880 6900 to speak to a member of our friendly team.

Care & Maintenance of your Hoof Boots

Your hoof boots are expensive pieces of equestrian kit so they deserve regular care and maintenance. Looking after your hoof boots will not only increase the longevity and durability of the boots but also protect your equine’s welfare and limit the risk of bacterial infection in the hoof. Lucy Nicholas from Trelawne Equine advises “Hoof boots are like any other piece of tack or equipment you use on your horse, and should be cared for to get the best from them. After each use, the boots should have the worst of the mud removed from them (a good hose-down or dunk in a bucket of water will usually do this very quickly!), and the inside should be checked for small stones / gravel and any lumps of mud or deposits that could cause rubbing. Hoof boots should be routinely inspected for signs of wear, any screws or fitting checked for tightness, and cables or buckles checked for signs of stress or fraying. Just like all tack, damaged boots should not be used until the problem has been rectified, or they have been checked by a knowledgeable individual for safety. In addition it is also worth measuring your horse’s hooves every couple of months, especially during transitioning, to monitor your horse’s foot shape / size, as they can change – just to make sure the boots are still the best boots for your horse! If you are using one pair of boots on more than one horse, it is wise to use a disinfectant spray in between horses, to prevent the spread of infection. Something akin to the spray used to disinfect shoes at a bowling alley for example can be used, or there are some specialist hoof disinfectant sprays on the market. At least once a week Pads should be removed and the boot and pad should be sprayed liberally, before returning the pad to the boot.” For more information about the hoof boots available from Trelawne Equine visit the website www.trelawneequine.co.uk

Considering Synthetic Tack with The Saddlery Shop

Here at www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk we specialise in below RRP items, which means we know about the importance of keen pricing for customers. Owner of The Saddlery Shop Lucy Nicholas says "As a horse owner and someone that has been involved in the equestrian industry for many years, I have always enjoyed the thrill of buying new tack – and that wonderful smell of leather!" So why are we suggesting you should consider purchasing synthetic tack? Read on... Lasting a lifetime Leather tack has been a popular choice of tack for many years, and there’s no denying its durability – if well maintained, it can last a horse’s lifetime, with regular attention from a saddler to ensure the saddle fits, and a careful cleaning and maintenance regime. Click here to see the range of leather tack The Saddlery Shop has to offer. However one of the downsides of leather tack however can be its price – as good-quality tack has a price tag to match the craftsmanship that goes into its production, particularly if it is hand-stitched. A further issue is that customers and horse owners often need to source cost effective items in today’s economic climate. And there are lots of inferior, non-English leather items in the market today that are manufactured abroad. However, the finishing is rarely to the same standard as a more costly piece of crafted tack, with for example, the edges of an item not being rounded and sealed to close the fibres within the leather. This again may lead to weakness. Synthetic tack has been around for a long time; two of the original pioneers were Ron and Ken Bates, owners of Bates Saddlery. Over the last twenty years, inferior leather goods have increasingly become available to consumers, while at the same time, research and development into synthetic goods has increased, with materials such as Cordura, Equileather, Equisuede and Beta BioThane being developed and used by manufacturers. Although each manufacturer uses their own, closely guarded materials for their synthetic products, most products today have a similar appearance. Lucy Nicholas says "I often recommend that customers choose synthetic tack over leather, especially if their budget for tack is in the mid-range. I would also add that many of the synthetic saddles available today have innovative design features that do appeal to many owners. These include changeable gullet systems and girth strap positioning, plus a choice of seat size and tree width, and scope to adjust the flocking. A great innovation is movable panel blocks that sit in front of your legs to help place you in an effective, comfortable position, and give bespoke support and comfort for your leg. Today, there’s no need to compromise on design or features of a saddle if you opt for a good brand of synthetic tack such as the ranges available from The Saddlery Shop. It can also be difficult at first glance to tell the difference between synthetic and leather makes of saddle, in terms of its appearance, plus you usually have a more lightweight product, and one whose ongoing care is much simpler! Alongside a range of synthetic tack The Saddlery Shop is also equipped with specialist synthetic cleaning products such as the Wintec Saddle Cleaning Spray. For more information about the synthetic range visit the website today www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk or Tel: 0844 880 6900 to speak to a member of our friendly team for all the advice you require on considering synthetic tack.

Beat laminitis without cutting pasture time with a grazing muzzle!

With winter on the way out and spring on the horizon it is important to consider protective measures against equine laminitis. The common, yet debilitating condition is caused by the inflammation, weakening or tearing of the laminae tissues which bond the hoof wall to the pedal bone and is often linked to being caused by obesity and a prolonged consumption of lush grass. Many people choose to keep their laminitic horse or pony stabled and though this may be necessary during an acute period every owner hopes to get their horse or pony back out at pasture upon reaching a significant level of recovery. A grazing muzzle, such as the range available from The Saddlery Shop including the; Comfort Grazing Muzzle, Shires Deluxe Nylon Grazing Muzzle, GreenGuard Grazing Muzzle and much more. The Grazing Muzzle restricts the quantity of grass which can be consumed by limiting the depth and weight of each bite but without preventing the horse from eating all together. A grazing muzzle can be incredibly beneficial in order to both prevent the risk of a greedy equine developing laminitis and to ensure a recovering laminitic can spend a period of time outside safely. Grazing Muzzles are available from The Saddlery Shop in a range of colours, sizes and styles just visit the website to find out more! www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk

Riding Hat Protection with The Saddlery Shop

When horse riding there is nothing more important than your safety. Riding hats are especially designed to protect your incredibly important head and their is no piece of equipment for equestrian pursuits more crucial! A horse riding hat or helmet with a hard shell and protective lining will protect the wearer’s head if they fall from a horse or if you are kicked. It’s crucial to always wear a riding hat, not only when you are riding a horse, but it certain circumstances when you are handling a horse from the ground. Not only is your hat vital to your safety when riding, second to your horse and your saddle, your riding hat is one of your most expensive pieces of equipment so it pays to look after it wisely. The padded Sherwood Forest Hat Bag from The Saddlery Shop is an ideal way to transport and store your riding hat. This riding hat bag looks good as well as being practical, with a large padded compartment for the hat and separate compartment for accessories accomodating any size of type of riding hat. The Saddlery Shop also offers a wide range of top brands of protective riding hats including such as Gatehouse, Champion, Dublin, so why not visit the website today www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk

Equine Hoofboots at The Saddlery Shop

The Saddlery Shop offers a huge range of equine hoof boots building up a trusted reputation over a number of years. The Saddlery Shop is recognised as the country’s leading equestrian barefoot retailer holding the largest stocks of hoof boots and accessories in the UK! In addition The Saddlery Shop is a respected authority on booting barefoot horses. The Saddlery Shop aim to have all the information you as a barefoot horse owner would need in order to choose the best hoof boot for their horse. Offering free specialist hoof boot advice by email or telephone from one of our booting experts, including Lucy Nicholas the author of 'The Barefoot Horse'. The Saddlery Shop is proud to provide optimum customer service to our barefoot horse owners so our hoof boot enquiries are treated as priority and usually answered within 4 working hours! To see the huge range of equine hoof boots, books, cushioning pads and inserts and equine barefoot maintenance tools such as rasps visit the website www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk.