morePRODUCT NEWS AND INDUSTRY SUPPLIER DIRECTORY
For special offers and product information take a look at the companies below.
Submissions at the discretion of the webmaster.
We are not responsible for the content of external websites.
product news
Hardtops UK - TAILOR MADE FOR FARRIERS
• Avenger Professional Side Opening Hard top
• Low Chequer Plate Tray Bins
• Tray Slide
• Twin Re-fillable gas system, with dividing partition
• 1500W inverter
• 1KG Powder Fire Extinguisher
The Farriers Workhorse, designed especially for this trade and all includes essential items.
As everyone’s needs vary, we build each ‘Farriers Workhorse’ bespoke to ensure we include as little or as much as is required.
All in stock and available for most pick-ups.
CALL US NOW ON
01672 851842
www.hardtopsuk.com
Alpha Graduated Hind Shoe
Marc Harold of Total Foot Protection has announced the availability of the ‘new Alpha Graduated Hind Shoe’, which he says, is the latest in the range of advanced shoes for farriers. He says the shoe is the first mild steel drop forged graduated shoe to be made available, giving farriers the ability to shape hot or cold. Graduated shoes are useful for cases of spavins, curbs or to correct flat or negative plane P3 problems.
The company says that the graduated hind shoe has many innovative features that make it an essential shoe for these and many other hind limb issues, noting that the broad toe section can easily be drawn, rolled or made to rocker if desired. The heel section features deep fullering which it says will optimise weight distribution and balance. The company adds that the solid heel pillars are centre marked for easy drilling for stud-holes.
‘Each shoes has 12 well spaced nail holes allow you the choice of positions for nailing on, along with strong quarter clips that can be drawn further if farriers wish to fit pads.’
The Alpha Graduated Hind Shoe is available in pairs or in boxes of 10 pairs from a dealer near you or directly from MNC +44 (0)1908 568 878 and TFP +44 (0)1403 791000
From fat pads to feet - the descent into laminitis by Andrea Gentles
‘Cresty’ necks are unsightly lumps of fat found on the neck of an overweight or obese horse and there is a growing awareness among vets and horse owners that having a ‘cresty neck’ predisposes it to laminitis.
Susceptible ponies (and cross breeds) are called ‘good doers’ and they possess an insulin resistant genotype as a survival mechanism, which makes them more likely to develop insulin resistance, a good thing as it helps them to survive their native harsh mountain/moorland environment.
The problems start when the good doer clashes with the modern management system and change of environment, and switches to a diet containing too much sugar and starch from hard feed, high quality hay and grass (perennial rye) designed by modern farming methods as suitable for high milk yielding cattle, with no drop in the quality of nutrients through the winter months. Good doers are more predisposed to laminitis, but any horse receiving more calories than required for work will store the excess as adipose tissue and fat pads will soon appear as ‘cresty necks’, tail pads, shoulders, sheath etc and has the potential to develop endocrinopathic laminitis.
What happens next?
The ‘cresty’ neck is not just a layer of fat but it is a hormone ‘factory’ manufacturing at least 10 different hormones, which set in place several mechanisms that can eventually lead to laminitis. In humans, adipose tissue around the stomach has been found to contain large amounts of chemicals that are inflammatory in nature, the same chemicals have been found in the ‘cresty neck’ and tail fat pads of horses. These inflammatory chemicals have a massive impact on health with multiple complex interactions between glucose and lipid metabolism, control of appetite and energy levels to name just a few.
Countdown to catastrophe
The first stage of the breakdown is the release of a chemical (MCP-1) from the fat pad to attract and recruit white blood cells (monocytes) from the blood stream into the adipose tissue. CP-1 is responsible for recruiting MCP-1 both can be found in blood tests, but it may not been seen until obesity has been present for some time, this chemical is also breed specific to natives and cross breeds. The monocytes cause the fat cells to grow and to swell hence the hardness of a ‘cresty neck’ before an attack of laminitis.
Step two is the setting up of a low grade inflammation throughout the body, to achieve this effect the monocytes convert to macrophages and to a chemical called TNF-1 both alter the normal metabolism and signal the release of triglycerides from the adipose tissue which is a normal response to infection/inflammation and disease. Low-grade inflammation results and chronic insulin resistance sets in.
The third step is the release of yet more insulin to deal with the transport of triglycerides, whilst in the adipose tissue IL-1 and IL-6 are produced and have a negative impact, producing greater insulin resistance, these immune cells also have an effect on the appetite and energy levels by producing a hormone called leptin. This hormone is often measured in a blood test as it is indicative of insulin resistance.
Breakdown
The final stage in the process is endocrinopathic laminitis caused by;-
High levels of circulating insulin (above 200 micro iu/ml)
A disrupted glucose supply to the foot.
High levels of triglycerides/lipids cause an altered blood flow to the foot.
Pro inflammatory chemicals TNF-1, IL-1, IL-6 are influential in many diseases states in humans and are anticipated to play a significant part in the final breakdown of the hoof.
With the increased levels of insulin also comes an increase in the hormone insulin growth factor-1 this hormone causes rapid cell division.
High insulin levels can cause changes to the foot (lamellar) within six hours with significant structural breakdown occurring at 48 hours. At six hours the secondary epidermal lamellae are becoming longer and narrower and at 12 hours this damage is even more marked. There is an increased amount of cell division, which causes the tissues to swell and an increase in vasodilation together with an increased hoof wall temperature. High insulin levels cause cell division as do the other pro inflammatory chemicals released by the adipose tissue. The injury is more severe around the pedal bone with some of the sections of the basement membrane almost completely disintegrated within a short period of time.
For further information please contact
Andrea Gentles, FreeStep Superfix, [email protected] 07525 818730
Soundhorse launch Flexx Direct-Glue Shoe
Soundhorse Launch Flexx® Direct-Glue Shoe
SoundHorse, of Pennsylvania, USA, has launched Flexx, which it describes as a revolutionary polyurethane shoe that is designed for direct-glue applications.
The shoe is made from a high-temperature, thermoset polyurethane, and the company says that it has undergone long and successful trials in Kentucky and adds that it comes in three versions - sport, a training plate and a therapeutic shoe. The ‘sport’ is based on the Kerckhaert Classic Roller or equivalent in terms of shape, section and sizing; the ‘training plate’ is designed along the lines of the Victory EC Queens Plate or Kerckhaert Kings Plate; and the ‘therapy’ shoe has a three-degree wedge to aid young horses with clubby, upright hooves.
The sport shoes have open heels, a rolled toe and are made with a flexible wire insert in the core. An ordinary turning hammer can be used to shape them cold. Their weight is less than a quarter of the steel equivalent – a pair of Flexx Sport Size 1 Fronts weighs 0.15 kg against a pair of Classic Rollers of the same size that come in at 0.80 kg. The shoes are manufactured with an abrasive grit concentrated at the ground surface to aid both wear and grip, and the company expects them to wear ‘considerably better’ than aluminium. As well as easing concussion, the polyurethane allows the shoe to ‘bio-mimic’ the natural movement of the hoof and permits some expansion of the heels, thus reducing hoof capsule restriction – a common criticism of direct-glue applications.
SoundHorse recommend the use of acrylic adhesives such as Equilox or Hoof Life for use with Flexx shoes as they are particularly ‘friendly’ to this type of glue. The shoes can also be drilled and tapped for studs, or can be fitted with drive-in studs.
The Sport Flexx are available in sizes 00 – 3 (Kerckhaert sizing), the Training Plate in sizes 0 – 5 (racing plate sizing), and the Therapy shoes in sizes 4-7.
Flexx are distributed by Atlantic Equine Ltd on 01327 314880 or www.atlantic-equine.co.uk.
Price per pair for all versions is £24.95 + VAT.
Soundhorse launch Flexx Direct-Glue Shoe
New Hoof Sock to Revolutionise Poulticing
A revolutionary new rubber-dipped hoof sock which 'breathes' whilst still protecting and soaking the damaged hoof has just been launched to horse owners in the UK. The easy fitting sock is designed to be used in the treatment of the more common hoof injuries, says the importer/distributor, Wolseley Stockshop.
Invented by a New Zealand farrier in collaboration with a vet, the new ‘breathable’ Tubbease hoof sock is said to provide a hygienic and protected footbath environment for the hoof while the healing process occurs, without weakening and softening the hoof wall by ‘stewing’ it, explains product development manager, Jane Trowbridge.
‘The Tubbease sock can be used as a dry dressing or a wet poultice. Not only is it highly effective, its EVA foam rubber sole-pad relieves pain for the horse whilst extending the life of the sock. It can be used with a range of remedies for ailments such as abscesses, thrush, seedy toe, thin sole, injuries, cracks and general hoof deterioration,’ explains Jane.
The Tubbease will also provide protection after treatment and enhance the healing process, she notes. ‘Whilst treatment of an abscess is a fairly standard procedure, once located and drained, the biggest issue is keeping the wound clean until healed. The fact that most horses are walking around in paddocks or other unclean areas provides a challenge for any treatment system applied.
‘Unlike conventional methods of protecting the hoof during treatment the Tubbease sock is quick and easy to use and can be easily checked and re-applied. The soft conforming sock also reduces risk of skin chaffing. This is great news for everyone as it means better care can be taken of the healing hoof, leading to more efficient healing of the wound and a quicker return to normal for the animal,’ she adds.
International event rider Emily Gilruth is planning to use the sock when the need arises: ‘I think it’s a brilliant, innovative idea, I can really see us getting a lot of benefit from it,’ says Emily.
To place an order you can phone Stockshop on 01392 460077, email: [email protected] contact your Stockshop area manager or order online using the trade web portal www.stockshop.co.uk
Zoetis launches new campaign to help combat encysted small redworm
Zoetis is helping horse owners understand the serious risks of encysted small redworm with the launch of a new awareness campaign. The company says that its educational initiative is centred on a new website, www.esrw.co.uk that contains an informative video, a quick quiz and an advisory leaflet that can be downloaded.
Encysted small redworms are one of the most common and harmful worms found in horses. The company says that they are the larval stages of the small redworm that have buried into the lining of the gut where they lie dormant, adding that they pose a potentially fatal health risk but won’t show up in a standard faecal worm egg count. Encysted small redworm must be treated properly during late autumn or winter, otherwise they may develop and emerge en masse from the gut wall in the early spring, causing diarrhoea and colic with a mortality rate of up to 50%.
Zoetis vet Wendy Talbot said: ‘Continual education is imperative to make sure every owner knows how to keep his or her horse healthy. The short video on www.esrw.co.uk succinctly explains the threat of encysted small redworm and how to minimise the risks. Owners can then test their knowledge with the quick quiz and download a leaflet, before discussing the best treatment options with their vet or suitably qualified person (SQP).’
Visit www.esrw.co.uk and speak to your vet or SQP about responsible worm control, or to find out more about year-round worm control visit www.wormingyourhorse.info. You can also download Stable Mate, the horse health management App from Zoetis. It is available from the iPhone App Store and Google Play Store: text Stable Mate to 80800 to download.
Further information from Zoetis UK, Walton Oaks, Dorking Road, Walton-on-the-Hill, Tadworth, Surrey KT20 7NS
Laminitis - by Warwick Bloomfield
Laminitis is a common problem that farriers will be all too familiar with. We are now approaching the time when we see a steady rise in cases as Spring leads into Summer and the usual candidates will start to suffer, whatever the trigger may be. This article is not about the causes of laminitis, but more about a practical, cost-effective way to make the sufferer as comfortable as possible with a non-invasive application of two main products.
As Farriers, quite often the onus is on us to try and make the patient comfortable. Most understand that laminitis is individual in each case; what will work for one may not be suitable for another. This is by no means a “One fits all” method. However, with the success achieved, this information may help some of you help other laminitics through to soundness with the least amount of trauma for the patient and everyone involved.
From the time of diagnosis the horse or pony will be very uncomfortable and quite often have an overgrown hoof. It is important to trim the hoof and frog back to as normal a shape as possible with a good roll in the toe area. At this stage trimming can be difficult, as the patient may not want to bear weight on the opposite foot. It may be necessary to stand him on something soft, ie: a folded towel, soft bedding etc.
Once the hoof is trimmed, mix some Equus Hoof Putty. This is a two-part impression material, the same as is used by dentists to take dental impressions. When cured goes off to a firm but rubbery and flexible consistency which will mould itself to the exact contours of the frog and the bilateral sulcus, thus providing a custom made frog and caudal hoof support.
Once mixed and before it has cured, the putty has a plasticine type consistency which can be moulded around the frog and caudal area of the hoof. Before applying the putty, it helps to dust the area to be covered with a dry anti-bacterial powder to help absorb moisture, Such as NT-Dry or Silverthrush. This is a helpful but not essential part of the process.
Without putting the hoof down we then apply an Equus Hoofcast. Hoofcast is a 3.6 mtr long tape, which is infused with a water-activated gel. Once applied the hoof can be placed back on the ground where the cast will cure in about two - three minutes depending on outside temperature. It should be possible to pick the opposite hoof up and start to work on that while the cast cures. Hoofcast cures to a hard, supportive structure that will protect the hoof putty and the sole area.
We have now created a custom-made hoof support which will support and protect the sole and frog area and stabilise the wall without the trauma of nailing on. The great bonus with this method is that once the acute stage has passed a shoe can be nailed directly onto the hoof cast and the horse or pony can be brought back into exercise as appropriate for the condition. If a shoe is being applied it is always best to fit a natural balance type shoe (EPS is best) set well back from the toe.
Although the products mentioned are easy to use, it helps to be familiar with the application of both before trying to apply two together. Hoofcast and Hoof putty can be used in conjunction with other products such as pads and other types of shoe. For more information and to see a video of this application please go to www.hoofsolutions.co.uk
ShoeSecure gains foothold in the States
Forge Magazine has learnt from Muriel Colquhoun MBE that her ShoeSecure product has been granted a USA Patent.
Distributed in the States by Palm Beach Farrier Supply, it would seem quite a number of people are using them on their horses while riding, particularly the Reining Horses, Muriel tells us.
ShoeSecure has been available in the UK for a few years now, but Muriel is clearly delighted with this achievement Stateside.
Developed with input from both farrier David Varini AWFC and vet Dr Tim Watson BVM&S, PhD, MRCVS, ShoeSecure is a good example of collaboration between both professions.
David, who was World Champion Blacksmith at Calgary in 2013, said, "Using ShoeSecure allows the farrier to maintain the normal balance of the hoof, providing appropriate support to the back of the foot without fear of the shoe being pulled off. This in turn helps promote a healthy conformation to the heels, helping protect against concussive injuries and palmar foot pain.
“Without ShoeSecure, the farrier is forced to ‘hide’ the branches of the shoe under the heels and this eventually leads to collapsed heels and lameness due to corns and other forms of palmar foot pain.”
Obviously sharing Muriel’s enthusiasm for this latest development, Dr Tim Watson said, “Congratulations to Muriel achieving a US Patent for ShoeSecure. Having been in on the project from the beginning I fully felt Muriel’s determination to invent a product that would prevent horses pulling their shoes off.
“Knowing Muriel's horse Banjo, she would have been forced to hand graze this horse unless she could prevent him from “erupting” in the field and losing shoes, which was a daily occurrence. From her germ of an idea, we made a cast of Banjo’s hoof and Muriel used this is to shape and mould the product that is now ShoeSecure. It has proven itself time and time again with horses prone to losing shoes in the UK and now reining horses in Texas are using them in competition – hence the need for Muriel to extend the Patent Worldwide. Scotland to Texas - quite a jump!”
Tim is an FEI Eventing Vet, he occasionally writes for the Horse & Hound, he is also the Director for International Affairs on the board of the BEF.
Further information, including fitting demonstrations can be found at www.shoesecure.com
DB Premier Concave shoe range
2014 will see the launch of two new shoe ranges, DB Premier Concave and EZY-FIT Urethane shoes, distributed by the Concave Horseshoe Company. The DB Premier Concave shoe range is a traditional rolled concave shoe designed by World Champion, Darren Bazin, who explains: The front shoes are available in either a toe clip option, with a unique safed toe to facilitate break-over, or a side clip option. The shape is based on my own hand forged shoes, allowing easy alteration for most feet. The shoes come with the same nail pitch that I like to put on, when making my own shoes, making them ‘pitch perfect.’
The hind shoes have a flowing shape, again, allowing easy alteration for most feet and a slightly shorter inside branch, making fitting them that little bit easier. There is a distinct inside and outside heel, the outside offers more cover and the inside heel is slightly narrower and safed making fitting these shoes a pleasure. Nail pitch is in keeping with what I would expect with a hand-forged shoe, helping to keep feet strong. The shoes are currently available in 5/8 x 3/8, 3/4 x 3/8, 7/8 x 3/8 and 7/8 x 7/16, with other sections coming soon, plus a sport option with double stud holes and a ‘high goal’ polo option with a single stud hole.
The EZY-FIT range of urethane shoes have been designed with the help of leading farriers, using the latest polyurethane materials and injection moulding manufacturing techniques, similar to those used in the current aircraft industry. As light as aluminium yet twice as hard wearing, these horseshoes provide far better shock absorption to the horse than the traditional steel or aluminium shoes, which benefits the horses joints and reducing the possibilities of injuries.
The range currently consists of EZY-FIT Heart Bars available in sizes 0 to 3, including half sizes, which allows for easier fitting and a EZY-FIT Sport shoe designed for the racing industry and approved by the British Horse Racing Association and other styles are also currently being designed and tested. The unique design of the EZY-FIT shoes incorporating a special steel insert, allows the shoe to be shaped and altered using an anvil or stall jack, to fit the individual horses foot. EZY-FIT shoes can be nailed or glued on depending on the individual horses requirements. There are a number of testimonies on the EZY-FIT website from farriers who have already tested the shoes with very good results.
Both of these ranges are available from the Concave Horseshoe Company or our partner suppliers, a list of which is on the websites below.
For prices and more details on these products please call 0044(0) 1909 517105 or visit www.concavehorseshoecompany.com,
www.ezyfithorseshoes.com
Laminitis – Feed Advice for Farriers from HorseHage
As a farrier, you will very likely be the professional that sees a horse most regularly and will notice any changes in the horse’s condition, temperament and soundness. Therefore, it stands to reason that your opinion and expertise is very valuable to a horse owner.
One condition that you will have come across regularly, which greatly affects a horse’s feet is laminitis. This painful and complex disease needs careful treatment and good teamwork between owner, veterinarian and farrier in order to manage the problem.
The owner must manage the day-to-day care, the vet must provide medical treatment and the farrier should understand the mechanical aspects that this condition can cause, and provide support to the bony column whilst the new hoof grows.
One of the most important aspects for a horse or pony prone to laminitis is diet. This is where your knowledge may provide extra help to an owner managing an equine with this condition, as being highly qualified to look after their horse’s feet, your recommendations will be taken on board.
Many owners have the misconception that horses and ponies suffering from laminitis should be fed poor quality hay alone or, worse still, starved of food for long periods of time. Either of these management styles can easily lead to many other serious health issues on top of the existing laminitis. The digestive system of the horse is designed to process small amounts of feed at regular intervals, and this does not change when a horse is diagnosed as suffering from laminitis.
Laminitic horses, or those who have been identified as being at risk, require carefully controlled diets that are low in starch and sugar but contain a high level of fibre. They require a balanced diet that reduces their calorific intake whilst continuing to meet their daily nutritional requirements. This can often be problematic for horse owners when faced with choosing a suitable diet that meets both of these requirements.
The Mollichaff HoofKind Diet has been specially devised by HorseHage to supply all the nutrient and fibre requirements of laminitics, without the need to feed lots of different products which can be expensive and confusing. The diet also allows sufficient quantities to be fed, ensuring that the horse is not left for extensive periods of time without food.
It consists of Mollichaff HoofKind, a complete feed designed to provide the nutritional support of equines prone to laminitis, to be fed alongside High Fibre HorseHage or Timothy HorseHage, which are bagged forages.
Mollichaff HoofKind (A complete feed specially formulated for laminitics)
◗ High in fibre
◗ Low in protein, starch and sugar
◗ No cereals
◗ Highly palatable
◗ Contains broad spectrum vitamins and minerals
◗ Contains therapeutic levels of biotin for hoof health
◗ Contains added magnesium to support metabolic processes and help prevent glucose intolerance and insulin resistance
◗ Contains selected plant-based antioxidants to support nutritional maintenance of respiratory and circulatory systems, hooves and laminae
High Fibre and Timothy HorseHage (Bagged forage)
◗ Dust-free
◗ Contain no chemical additives, mould inhibitors or inoculants
◗ High in fibre
◗ Low in starch and sugar
◗ Highly palatable
◗ Highly digestible
◗ Suitable for laminitics
Both these types of HorseHage are suitable for laminitics. These products are all high in fibre and essential nutrients, but are very low in starch and sugar and carry the HoofKind symbol on the bag to indicate their suitability. They contain a typical sugar level of around 5%, which is considerably lower than a typical hay sample which can contain as much as 10%.
It is essential that Mollichaff HoofKind is fed at the recommended levels to ensure that the vitamin and mineral requirements are being met and that the biotin level is sufficient.
For further information contact the HorseHage Helpline on 01803 527257 or visit www.horsehage.co.uk
The NEW Vulcan Bar Shoes
Drop Forged
Mild Steel
No Weld
From only £11.90 per pair - available in sizes 5-10
Orders over £300 get free carriage and a free T-shirt
www.horseshoes.co.uk - 01908 366855
Sound Advice from Stromsholm
Would you like on our sales representatives to visit you and go through our range of products more closely?
If so, contact us on 01908 233909 and we will arrange for our nearest representative to call you.
*Horseshoes
*Nails
*Rasps
*Supplements
*Tools
*Equipment
Save 5% Online! Discount code: FORGE2013
Steve Wells 07809 484562 ... Alan Medlycott 07540 724026
Dengie Coat & Hoof Supplement
Contains natural nutrients to promote healthy hooves and exceptions coat shine
To buy visit www.bestequinesupplies.co.uk or www.horsefeedshop.com
Dengie Feedline - 0845 345 5115
www.dengie.com
equus hoofcast By Warwick Bloomfield
In 2008 Equus imports introduced a new Hoof casting product to the UK and European equine market. This innovative product has helped many farriers and owners to keep horses in work where in the past they would be turned away for months or even years to try and grow some hoof.
Today Equus Hoofcast is being used widely in the European equine market. The product is a 3.6 meter long woven tape which is infused with a water/moisture activated gel. It has a vacuum sealed foil pouch which preserves its moist state until exposed to water/moisture. When this exposure takes place the product will harden adhering to itself and whatever it’s wrapped on to or around. The curing or hardening process takes 2 – 3 minutes depending on outside temperature. Hot day 1-2 mins, cold day 2-4 mins.
The application is simple, although the uses are many and varied. Here are some examples.
1. Broken hoof. Horse ripped shoe and superficial wall off (For the second time in a week).
Farrier upset!! Solution. Fit a shoe as if the wall were still intact. Follow the instructions on the foil pouch. After wrapping the hoof and allowing Hoofcast to cure, nail on and finish as if you had nailed on to a healthy hoof. Equus Hoofcast has been developed that when cured or hardened has the same flexibility as the hoof wall itself and with its breathable and anti bacterial properties allows the product to be used with no detriment to the hoof capsule. So the cast can stay in place for the whole shoeing cycle.
2. It can be used in conjunction with many other products. e.g. For some laminitic cases Equus Impression Material can be used as a sole/P3 support and then wrapped with Equus Hoofcast which offers support and protection without nailing or gluing.
3. One of the main features of this product is that clinical conditions are not required for its use. Clean off excess and lose dirt and whatever, rough the hoof wall a bit with your rasp and that’s it, you are good to go. Wrap the hoof and nail on.
4. There are many more uses and applications for this low cost, easy to use product.
For more information and on where to purchase Equus Hoofcast and our other products go to: www.equusimports.co.uk
Do you have a client who would benefit from using Cornucrescine Daily Hoof Barrier?
Wet muddy conditions and long periods spent standing in soiled bedding means that the winter months can take their toll on the hoof. Cornucrescine Daily Hoof Barrier creates a one way barrier that prevents the hoof from absorbing excessive moisture and damaging ammonia and urea. The advanced formulation creates a one way waterproof barrier but still remains breathable allowing any excess moisture to be expelled. It also contains an anti-bacterial agent to protect the horn and if used regularly damage to the hoof capsule can be avoided. Long term use can result in stronger and more resilient hooves reducing shoe loss and associated issues.
Do you have a client who would benefit from using Cornucrescine Daily Hoof Barrier?
Send your details to [email protected] to receive your free tin*.
*Offer open to registered farriers only and subject to availability.
News Update from Horseshoes Direct
New range of 5/8 x 3/8” shoes which are going down a storm and also we now have more sizes of Concave steel in 9 – 10 ft. lengths which farriers have been waiting for.
Just check out our prices and our shoes, call on 01909 566822.
www.horseshoesdirect.co.uk
App-Solutely Brilliant!
The HorseRiderSOS smart phone app has been designed to make hacking and handling horses safer when working alone; and has now been upgraded with extra features.
Riders activate the app before heading off on their hack or when they’re working with their horse and there’s noone around. Their activity is monitored in ‘tracking mode’ as they ride or move around. In the event of their becoming unseated, injured or unconscious, the app recognises when no movement has been felt for a set time, and enters ‘alert mode’ by sending a message to their chosen ‘buddy’. Messages, which are sent by text, e-mail and now on Facebook, include the person’s GPS location. Once ‘alert mode’ has been activated, the rider is notified and they are able to override the system if it’s not a genuine emergency, and in an emergency situation they may be found quickly because of the GPS location service.
The app - for iPhone or Android – is available via www.horseridersos.com or from iTunes where the existing HorseRiderSOS app can be upgraded.
Hooves damaged from weather or work?
In a year when drought, floods and storms have ravaged grazing paddocks and hay meadows, the conditions can damage working hooves. Farm and Stable Supplies, a distributor of TRM Hoofmaker says this product can help as 'it does just what its name suggests – makes hoof – and it comes with a unique money back guarantee of results'.
A bestseller for 10 years, the company says that one 20g sachet of TRM’s Hoofmaker given daily, delivers 37.5mg of biotin, together with all the nutrients necessary for keratinisation of the hoof wall, including zinc and sulphur. The company adds that the product contains 100% active ingredients, with absolutely no fillers to ensure the important nutrients are supplied via the horse’s diet to protect and nourish every layer within the hoof wall for the improved integrity of the hoof structure and maximum growth of strong and healthy hooves.
It adds that the sulphur-enriched formulation includes a concentrated source of the sulphur-rich amino acid methionine and the sulphur-rich nutrient MSM, important as keratin sulphate, the structural component of the hoof horn, has a high sulphur content. Also included are calcium, essential for cohesion in the hoof wall, zinc, which supports healing of all epidermal tissues and other amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein and essential to good quality hoof horn.
TRM Hoofmaker carries a unique money-back guarantee of results - new hoof growth in 60 days - but TRM recommends a 180 day feeding programme for best results.
Hoofmaker is available in boxes of 60 x 20g sachets costing around £61.70, in 500g pots and for larger yards, 5kg tubs.
To find out more, contact UK Distributor Farm & Stable Supplies on 01730 815800 or to buy online in the UK, visit
www.trm-store.co.uk
Silverfeet antimicrobial hoof balm for daily use
Silverfeet is a new antimicrobial hoof balm from HS-silver that has been designed for daily use as part of the year-round care of horses’ feet. The company says that the product has a unique blend of natural ingredients, with an important addition – silver – to protect against hoof bacteria and fungal conditions. The company reports that laboratory experiments have shown that even in a very low, safe and non-toxic concentration, the silver in Silverfeet prevents the growth of hoof bacteria and fungi within hours of application.
Farrier, John Stanley, AWCF, who developed the balm says: ‘Reduced levels of bacteria and fungi result in a stronger, healthier hoof and improved performance. Silverfeet is designed to be preventative when applied to the wall, sole and frog as part of a daily hoof maintenance regimen. It is not only antimicrobial, but also fulfils the function of regular hoof oil by conditioning and providing a protective barrier against the environment.’
The balm, which has a pleasing smell, is formulated in a non-spill, but easy-to-apply consistency; and should be applied using a hoof oil brush, paying particular attention to cracks or splits where microbes may be found, the company says. Silverfeet is available in four colours: natural, girly pink, boys’ blue and black, which are designed specifically to encourage children to participate actively in regular hoof care. The company adds that the product does not alter the natural hoof colour, but enhances it by producing a lasting shine.
‘Wall, sole and frog = shine, condition and protect. Silverfeet provides a total solution to hoof care in one product. Silverfeet is free from all prohibited substances listed in current FEI publications and complies with the Rules of Racing.’
Telephone: 07796 204580 Email: [email protected]; Follow Silverfeet on Facebook and Twitter www.silverfeet.co.uk
Latest offers from Farrier Finance
Accountancy Packages
Take a look at our new accountancy packages that make it easy for you to manage and keep your accounts, letting you get on with your craft, and maintaining control of your business.
Deals from as little as £30.00* per month.
Start Up Package
Kick start your business with some fantastic deals on Business Cards, Flyers, Personalised Invoice Books, Clothing, Website and Logo Design.
Contact Farrier FInanace on
0333 320 7023
email: [email protected] - web: www.farrierfinance.co.uk
Latest offers from Cottam Horseshoes
No Need to buy Horseshoes in bulk prices from 1 box upwards.
Quality BRITISH concave from £16.60 per box
20% discount on our Drop Forged Equi-Shoe range, prices from £17.20 per box.
Plus massive discounts on nails. 5% discount on all other products.
Just click the link to take a look at what we have on offer. http://www.cottamhorseshoes.com/newsletter/
Order lines open 8am till 8pm just call Jane on 01246 453672 and get your free samples!
Or call round and take a look in our warehouse 9.00am till 4.30pm. Coffee and biscuits waiting!
Full range of our products on our Website www.cottamhorseshoes.com
Find us on facebook. Take a look at our photo gallery! http://www.cottamhorseshoes.com/offers.htm
SPECIAL MARCH OFFERS FROM ARTHUR COTTAMS
No Need to buy Horseshoes in bulk prices from 1 box upwards.
Quality BRITISH concave from £16.60 per box
20% discount on our Drop Forged Equi-Shoe range, prices from £17.20 per box.
Plus massive discounts on nails. 5% discount on all other products.
Just click the link to take a look at what we have on offer. http://www.cottamhorseshoes.com/newsletter/
Order lines open 8am till 8pm just call Jane on 01246 453672 and get your free samples!
Or call round and take a look in our warehouse 9.00am till 4.30pm. Coffee and biscuits waiting!
Full range of our products on our Website www.cottamhorseshoes.com
Find us on facebook. Take a look at our photo gallery!http://www.cottamhorseshoes.com/offers.htm
40th Anniversary for Stromsholm. Winter sale now on!
Video link - Demonstration from ShoeSecure - http://www.shoesecure.com/Demo.aspx
FEBRUARY OFFERS FROM ARTHUR COTTAMS
No Need to buy Horseshoes in bulk prices from 1 box upwards.
Quality BRITISH concave from £16.60 per box
20% discount on our Drop Forged Equi-Shoe range, prices from £17.20 per box.
Plus massive discounts on nails. 5% discount on all other products.
Just click the link to take a look at what we have on offer. http://www.cottamhorseshoes.com/newsletter/
Order lines open 8am till 8pm just call Jane on 01246 453672 and get your free samples!
Or call round and take a look in our warehouse 9.00am till 4.30pm. Coffee and biscuits waiting!
Full range of our products on our Website www.cottamhorseshoes.com
Find us on facebook. Take a look at our photo gallery!http://www.cottamhorseshoes.com/offers.htm
British Concave Horseshoes from Cottam Horseshoes
British Concave Horseshoes from only £16.60 a box. No need to buy in bulk, these amazing low prices are available whether you buy 1 box or 50 boxes. Just give Jane a call for a free sample 8am till 8pm on 01246 453672. Click the page below to check out the full list of sizes and prices. http://www.cottamhorseshoes.com/offers.htm
A helping hand in January from Horseshoes Direct
Horseshoes Direct are offering 20% off when you buy 12 boxes of their quality shoes until the end of January.
www.horseshoesdirect.co.uk
Arthur Cottam - Winter Offers 2011
No need to buy 35 boxes+ . Prices are available for 1 box+
All our Horseshoes whether it be our Concave or Drop Forged Shoes have been designed by ourselves with 90 years experience and knowledge with great help and input from the farriery industry.
New Cottam Essential Concave
A British Produced Concave Horseshoe; Simple Design; Concave Nail Hole Pitch; Symmetrical Shape English Pattern Concave
4, 5 & 6 3/4 X 3/8 All £19.00 a box (£1.90 a pair)
6 & 7 7/8 x 3/8 All £20.00 a box (£2.00 a pair)
8, 9 and 10 7/8 x 7/16 All £21.00 a box (£2.10 a pair)
Cottam Equi Shoe Range
A full Range of Drop Forged Shoes
Economy £19.00 a box (£1.90 a pair)
Standard From £21.60 a box (£2.16 a pair)
Quarter Clipped £24.00 a box (2.40 a pair)
Ultimate From £25.20 a box (£2.52 a pair)
XL From £25.20 a box (£2.52 a pair)
Roller Lites £27.80 a box (£2.78 a pair)
Trainers £17.20 a box (1.72 a pair)
We Stock March, Mondial, Derby and Mustad Nails in all Sizes
Example
Size 5 March from £10.45 a box (500)
Size 5 Mondial from £10.00 a box (500)
We now stock Jim Blurton Bar Shoes, Flatland Forge, Derek Gardener and Bruce Wilcox Hammers.
If you would like place an order or you need a free sample of nails or horseshoes just give us a call 8am till 8pm 7 days a week on 01246 454249/453672
Keep horses balanced and healthy with Spillers
Calorie control, calmness and costs all play a role in what we choose to feed our horses and ponies but this can lead to feeding less than the recommended amount, especially during the summer months, which can compromise our horses’ health, advises Spillers.
During the summer many horses and ponies are given just grass because quite rightly they don't require the extra calories prepared feed provides. However, although grass can supply enough protein and calories for most of the year it is impossible to know just by looking at it whether or not it’s providing all the nutrients you horse needs to stay in good health and perform at his best.
A good balancer is the ideal way to make sure your horse receives the essential vitamins and minerals he needs every day, the company says. It’s the ideal solution for horses and ponies on a forage-only diet, good doers or for horses having less than the recommend amount of compound feed. Balancers are low calorie and contain concentrated amounts of vitamins, minerals and essential proteins, which allow them to be fed in small quantities. Feeding a balancer can also help lively horses keep their cool as they tend to be low in starch and because of the small quantity fed, won't supply unwanted extra whizz!
The cost of feeding a daily balancer can be much less than when feeding a full ration of traditional feed and some balancers will also negate the need to feed any other specialist supplements, which can mean even bigger savings. Spillers has a range of five balancers, to suit the needs of every type of horse or pony.
Spillers is giving you the chance to save £5 on every bag in its ‘balancers’ range from mid May 2011 while stocks last. Look out for the special flash packs in your local store.
[email protected]or visit the website at www.spillers-feeds.com.
Riding holidays
Finding the perfect riding holiday is now even easier, thanks to the revised and updated BETA Guide to Riding Holidays in Great Britain – a glossy, A5 publication containing key contacts and information needed for booking an equestrian holiday.
From Bedford to West Glamorgan, the guide is divided into individual counties. Each entry features key-coded symbols for easy identification of facilities, number of horses, opening times, affiliations and services, including Western riding lessons, carriage driving and show jumping.
The guide also contains a page of useful contacts for getting in touch with organisations, as well as a list of leading equestrian tour operators.
“Riding holidays are a great opportunity for everyone – whether young or old, complete beginner or someone with plenty of experience in the saddle,” said BETA executive director Claire Williams. “What better way to enjoy being out in the fresh air, enjoying the breathtaking views, than on horseback.
The BETA Guide to Riding Holidays in Great Britain is published as part of BETA’s commitment to promoting horse riding and supporting the equestrian trade.
Copies of the guide can be obtained from local BETA retailers or by contacting Tina Rogers at the BETA office,
email [email protected] or telephone 01937 587062.
Winergy Equilibrium® launches first fibre-based balancer
WINERGY Equilibrium is proud to announce the launch of its fibre-based balancer. With a unique recipe of different fibre sources, proven in trials to maximise digestive health, plus concentrated vitamins and minerals, Winergy Equilibrium Balancer supplies all a horse’s nutritional needs in a smaller ration.
Winergy Equilibrium Balancer provides horses with their full ration of daily vitamins and minerals so there’s no need to add any extra broadspectrum supplements.
What’s more, unlike traditional balancers, WINERGY Equilibrium Balancer is fibre-based to maximise your horse’s digestive health. So there’s no need to buy extra chaff either. This, combined with good quality protein to support topline and oil for slow release energy and coat shine, means you’ve got all your horse’s feeding needs in one bag.
For more information log on to
www.winergy.com or call the Careline for a friendly chat, on 01908 57 62 77.
LIBERO: THE VERSATILE SHOE FOR LEISURE AND SPORT
The new Mustad LIBERO is a 3/4 fullered all-round horseshoe based on feedback received on the company's LB range. 'We like to think of it as an upgrade on our base range, making it suitable for most leisure and sport purposes with a wide variety of sizes and sections.' The shoe has been designed as a result of the collaboration of an extended farriers team, comprised of eminent specialists from France, Germany, Great Britain, Holland, Belgium, Denmark, Norway and Switzerland.
Mustad says that its main objective has been to respect the natural shape of the hoof, providing the best support and protection for the horse while making farriers’ life easier when shoeing.
Despite their symmetrical feel, the new LiBero has a left and right shoe. The outside branch is clearly marked in the fuller and is always slightly longer, with the nail holes punched a fraction coarser for optimum fitting and nailing on. The bents of the inside and outside branches follow the physiological shape of most European breeds.
A moderate form of sole relief now starts 1mm after the white line. This ensures that no part of the sole will be weight bearing without increasing the risk of a stone lodging between the shoe and the sole.
Mustad has learned from experience that as much as 50% of the shoe can be worn away during one shoeing cycle.
The consequence of this is that the top half of the nail hole should not be relied upon for shoe retention. It has redesigned the crease and the nail hole in order to guarantee that the nail will always fully seat at the bottom half of the nail hole in combination with Mustad nails.
Althoug the V-fuller is said to fit most European style standard and long neck nails, the company using its Concave or EXL nails for which the shoe is specifically machine-punched.
The range retains its traditional character, Mustad has decided to offer subtle section-to-size variation within the traditional categories of 20x8mm, 22x8mm or 25x8mm. It also says that its choice of steel grade gives farriers the right balance between shape-ability on the anvil and durability underneath the hoof. With very low content of carbon and manganese, the shoe retains its shape-ability even after cooling in water.
Cool Mix is a non-heating mix for horses and ponies in light work. It is a firm favourite with riders because it can really help to keep horses cool, calm and under control. This feed is low in cereal starch and has added magnesium, which is know for its calming properties.
Conditioning Cubes and Conditioning Mix are for horses and ponies that need some extra help to maintain their weight over the winter. They provide extra non-heating calories and extra shine thanks to high levels of soya oil, while a perfect balance of vitamins and minerals supports long-term wellbeing.
SWIFT®RACING NAIL –DESIGNED TO PERFORM
Mustad has also introduced its new SWIFT® racing nail, developed through close collaboration with farriers who are specialised in racing disciplines. Swift® is said to meet the specific needs currently expressed by racing professionals.
Swift® features:
• An extra slim shank, especially appropriate for thin hoof walls. This generates less damage to the hoof wall, in a segment where hooves are exposed to a higher shoeing frequency
• Sufficient shank length, offering the option to nail both higher and lower
• A short neck, ideal for thin shoes
• A crown on the head, optimising drive and tightening
Swift® is said to offer a better fit with racing shoes, particularly steel shoes. 'It represents an ideal match for the St. Croix Forge Concorde shoes (steel and aluminum) as well as many other aluminum racing shoes.'
Extensive testing prior to its launch has highlighted specific points of strength for Swift®, among which the most notable are its excellent durability and resistance to wear, the shape (allowing for different styles of nailing) especially important on thin or fragile hoof walls, and the ease of driving. The nails come in sizes 00 –0, and packed in 250 and 500 pieces.
Keep a spring in their step with SPILLERS®
The good news is that spring is in the air but the bad news is that it comes hand in hand with an increased risk of laminitis. Although overweight horse or ponies tend to be more at risk from this serious and debilitating condition, in fact laminitis can attack any horse or pony at any time. Nutrition plays an important role in the management of laminitis so SPILLERS® have put together some great product offers to help you keep your horse or pony safe this spring.
“While some causes of laminitis are harder to avoid, nutritionally induced laminitis is the easiest to prevent,” says Clare Barfoot RNutr and the research and development manager at SPILLERS®.
“Look for low starch, high fibre feeds such as chopped fibre feeds approved by The Laminitis Trust or feed a low calorie balancer that will balance the nutrients in a forage- based diet without providing high levels of energy or starch. It’s also crucial to restrict access to grass and, if you can, to provide regular exercise.”
SPILLERS HAPPY HOOF® is a specially blended, low calorie, short-chop forage which can be used as a complete feed as it contains all the vitamins and minerals your horse needs to stay in good health. It is designed to extend eating time and was the first complete chopped fibre feed to be approved by the Laminitis Trust.
SPILLERS® High Fibre Cubes are low in starch and high in fibre, with high levels of vitamins and minerals, making them a safe choice for horses and ponies prone to laminitis. They can also be soaked to form a mash for veterans that can’t manage long fibres.
SPILLERS® are giving you the chance to save £2 on every bag of SPILLERS HAPPY HOOF® or SPILLERS® High Fibre Cubes from add date while stocks last. Look out for the special flash packs in your local store.
For friendly feeding advice on how to keep your horse or pony safe from laminitis please telephone the SPILLERS® Care-Line on + 44 (0)1908 226626, email to [email protected] or visit the SPILLERS® website at
www.spillers-feeds.com. You can also join Team SPILLERS® on Facebook.
Show Time with Chestfields
Chestfields Equine Products says that its Total Bodywash is an outstanding shampoo and conditioner, and that with regular use can improve the condition of your horse’s coat giving a fantastic professional finish every time.
It continues: ‘It’s unique application makes bathing and show preparation quick and easy, needing to only to be sprayed onto a wet coat, left to work for a few minutes before being thoroughly rinsed away, with no need for scrubbing!’
The Total Bodywash can be used for a full bath, as a spot cleaner, or dilute into a bucket of water to rinse away sweat marks or for a cleaning cool down following exercise or competing.
‘Chestfields Total Bodywash uses natural surfactants which penetrate to the skin of your horse, bringing all the dirt, scurf and dead skin cells to the surface of the coat to simply be rinsed away; regular use can also help repel flies and midges. Using only 100% natural ingredients makes this shampoo ideal for sensitive types, is kind to you, your horse and the environment.’
For a deep clean and condition for your horse’s mane and tail wash with Chestfields Mane & Tail for manageable, tangle free hair.
For the ultimate, professional finish apply Chestfields Show & Shine; a few light sprays of this non-slip conditioner to the coat, mane and tail will create an amazing shine and help you easily brush through.
Chestfields Total Bodywash, 750ml trigger spray, RRP £10.50 or as a 5ltr refill, RRP £49.25
Chestfields Mane & Tail, 500ml bottle, RRP £10.95
Chestfields Show & Shine, 500ml trigger spray, RRP £14.95
To see the complete product range, for a list of stockists or to purchase visit www.chestfields.com
or telephone: 01227 276129
Vallorbe launch big hoof rasp - the Spirit XL
Swiss rasp manufacturer Vallorbe have launched a new version of its Spirit rasp, the Spirit XL. While the standard Spirit is 45 mm wide x 350 mm long, this newest XL version, the Spirit XL, is the same length but 58 mm wide. Although an expensive rasp at £40. it will, like all Vallorbe products, hold its sharpness well and is the ideal rasp for the heavy horse or big hoof, says Tony Lindsell or Atlantic Equine.
Both the standard and XL versions of the Spirit represent a dramatic innovation in horse hoof rasps with a completely new design of the teeth on the finishing side. This is said to result in an effortless cut and a smooth finish.
Made by Vallorbe Swiss, who have more than 100 years' experience in the manufacture of files and rasps for many different industries, the Spirit has been the latest development in their horse rasp range.
Vallorbe rasps are available from Atlantic Equine Ltd or dealers throughout the country.
For further information, please call Atlantic Equine Ltd on 01327 314880.
The Right Step
The Right Step® from Life Data Labs is a hoof conditioner that is said to have been developed to guard against undue environmental moisture, while retaining valuable natural fluids; thus making it ideal for horses standing for long periods in wet and damp conditions, for example muddy paddocks and sodden meadows. Its ‘exceptional combination of ingredients using natural resins and plant extracts’ ensures the correct moisture balance within the hoof capsule. Life Data Labs, explains that oxygen is permitted to pass freely through to the hoof wall promote a healthy, pliable hoof, yet will not foster harmful infections from fungi and bacteria because the hoof is allowed to breathe through the coating. When conditions are dry, the natural hoof oils are retained within the hoof, lessening drying and cracking of the hoof wall.
Unlike some hoof protection products The Right Step® is free from the greasy residue of harmful petroleum and tar. For more information email [email protected] or log on to www.lifedatalabs.co.uk, or telephone 07537 151022.
TRM launches 'good as gold' paste
Good as Gold Paste from TRM is a new and effective natural supplement that can benefit nervous, hot, stressed or highly strung horses, available in a convenient, easy to administer syringe, the company says.
The proven formulation contains a high level of magnesium, which is in the chelated form for better absorption, B vitamins that have important nutritional functions in the synthesis of neurotransmitters in the central nervous system and the essential amino acid L-Tryptophan, a precursor in the formation of serotonin.
Overexcited horses can be a real problem in any discipline, making it difficult to train and compete. Good As Gold Paste is said to be the choice of many professional riders when there is a need for a more relaxed and manageable horse, as it helps to harness a horse’s concentration and learning ability. It can be used before competitions or training sessions as necessary.
Available in 70g syringes costing around £16.20. You feed half a syringe the morning before a competition. Where necessary, feed half a syringe the evening before a competition.
www.trm-store.co.uk
Keep your horse and your pocket healthy with SPILLERS
It's proving to be a tough winter so Spillers has introduced some fabulous feed deals to help keep your horse and your pocket healthy. From mid-February, while stocks last, you can take advantage of some serious savings with a three for the price of two offer on SPILLERS Cool Mix or £2.00 off Conditioning Mix and Conditioning Cubes.
Cool Mix is a non-heating mix for horses and ponies in light work. It is a firm favourite with riders because it can really help to keep horses cool, calm and under control. This feed is low in cereal starch and has added magnesium, which is know for its calming properties.
Conditioning Cubes and Conditioning Mix are for horses and ponies that need some extra help to maintain their weight over the winter. They provide extra non-heating calories and extra shine thanks to high levels of soya oil, while a perfect balance of vitamins and minerals supports long-term wellbeing.
For friendly advise please telephone the SPILLERS® Care-Line on 01908 226626 or send an email to [email protected]. For further information visit the company’s website at www.spillers-feeds.com
Trust SPILLERS Horse & Pony Cubes this winterPredicted hay shortages and soaring feed prices may mean tough times ahead for many horse owners this winter but you can count on SPILLERS®. They have put together a fantastic offer to help you feed your horse safely now the colder weather’s kicking in. From mid November, while stocks last, you can take advantage of a three for the price of two offer on the non-heating* favourite SPILLERS® Horse & Pony Cubes.
SPILLERS® Horse & Pony Cubes are the original non-heating cube. They are low in cereal starch and have added magnesium, known for its calming properties. The perfect balance of vitamins and minerals removes the need to feed additional supplements, while high levels of the important antioxidant Vitamin E will help support your horse’s natural defences over the winter months.
The offer runs from mid November and is available while stocks last - so hurry up and fill your feed store without emptying your pocket! For friendly feeding advice please telephone the SPILLERS® Care-Line on + 44 (0)1908 226626 or send an email to [email protected]. For further information visit the SPILLERS® website at www.spillers-feeds.com
* A non heating feed is one that is less likely to produce excitable behaviour in some horses and ponies when fed at the recommended rate.
One solution to hoof problems
Is your horse messy in the stable and stands in droppings or does he share his grazing with sheep and comes in with sheep muck packed in his feet, making thrush a problem?
You need Farriers Friend Hoof Health Spray from Equine Products UK, as the new formulation will help prevent sole, frog and foot problems. Just two sprays to each affected foot after picking out and cleaning is all you need. For maximum effect, Hoof Health Spray should be used twice daily.
How does it work? The solution of organic acids, essential oils, zinc and copper combine to help to maintain the correct pH in the hoof, reducing the pathogenic challenge from hoof bacteria and viruses, helping to keep hooves healthy.
Each handy 600 ml spray bottle contains approximately 480 applications and at around £7.86, is a really cost-effective addition to your grooming kit. It makes a great horsey stocking filler too!
Trials confirm efficacy of Tiludronate for the treatment of bone spavin
Newly published trials show that horses suffering lameness caused by bone spavin can show marked improvement following treatment with a Tiludronate infusion, in combination with controlled exercise.
Bone spavin is a chronic aseptic osteoarthritis of the distal tarsal joints, and is considered to be one of the most common forms of hindlimb lameness in the horse. The double blind, multicentric, placebo controlled trials were carried out on a total of 108 pleasure horses, show jumpers and eventers of a variety of sizes and breeds, all of which had been clinically diagnosed with bone spavin. The horses were rigorously selected, having to show clinical signs of spontaneous lameness of at least six weeks but less than a year’s duration and had to be in daily exercise. Horses suffering proximal suspensory desmitis were excluded.
Horses were defined as suffering from bone spavin if they displayed a chronic hindlimb lameness, which improved with distal tarsal joint analgesia and showed radiographic evidence of bony changes associated with bone spavin in the distal tarsal joints. The horses were treated at day zero with a single Tiludronate infusion or a placebo and reassessed 60 days later after a period of controlled exercise.
Eighty-seven horses completed the trials, comprising 42 Tiludronate treated horses and 45 placebo cases. By day 60, approximately 60% of the Tiludronate treated horses had improved in lameness by two grades or more, scored on a 10 point system.
Horses with bone spavin experience abnormal bone remodeling changes, occasionally with excessive bone resorption in the tarsal bones. Tiludronate works by regulating this bone remodeling through a decrease in the resorptive process, slowing down the degradation of the bone structure when the condition is progressing and alleviating the pain associated with abnormal bone lysis.
CEVA has produced a leaflet to help horse owners to understand the diagnosis and treatment of bone spavin. For copies of this leaflet and CEVA’s comprehensive veterinary brochure on the product please contact CEVA Animal Health on 01494 781510 or visit the website at www.tildren.com
Farrier bags Derby hat-trick
Chris Edwards, farrier to Sir Michael Stoute, completed a hat-trick of Derby winners when he plated ‘Workforce’ for the Epsom race on June 5th.
Following the wins of ‘Benny The Dip’ for John Gosden in 1997 and ‘North Light’, also for Sir Michael Stoute, in 2004, ‘Workforce’ stormed into the record books with a runaway seven-length win.
Chris was down at the start in his tails to ensure that nothing went wrong at the last minute and so, travelling back in a vehicle, he could only see the horse's backside as he chased ‘At First Sight’ after Tattenham Corner, then galloped clear to win in a course-record time.
Chris plated all his Derby winners in Victory aluminium racing plates and, as a memento of the occasion, was presented with a magnum of champagne by Tony Lindsell, director of Atlantic Equine Ltd, the UK importer and distributor of the Victory Racing Plate Company.
A customised label read: ‘Chris Edwards, Farrier, Workforce, The Derby 2010’ and was illustrated with the colours of Prince Khalid Abdullah of Saudi Arabia, the owner, as worn by jockey Ryan Moore on the day.
“This is very special,” said Chris. “It will go on the mantelpiece alongside my previous Victory magnums.”
Support the British Equestrian Team
Equestrian Team GBR and Hiho Silver have joined forces to launch a silver bracelet with red carnelian, blue lapis lazuli and white pearls – a stylish way to show support for the British Equestrian Teams. A generous donation is made for every bracelet sold to help the teams on their quest to win gold now and in the future, and can be ordered online at
www.hihosilver.co.uk.
The bracelets cost £40 with 20% of every sale donated to Equestrian Team GBR.
The British Equestrian Teams are currently seeking funding to support their trip the World Equestrian Games, which are being held in Kentucky, USA in October. The Olympic and Paralympic teams are generously supported by lottery funding via UK Sport, but the non-Olympic sports of driving, endurance, reining and vaulting do not receive funding for the event.
Keep up with the British Equestrian teams at www.equestrianteamgbr.co.uk where you can also sign up for Team GBR Ontrack – the official supporters club for the teams.
Bombs are all in a working day for TRM’s Tom Barrett
Irish supplement manufacturer TRM sells its high-quality product range in more than 40 countries and its customers include many of the world’s leading trainers and riders, but when Tom Barrett made a recent sales visit to Russia’s Caucasus region in the hope of securing new business, his trip was interspersed with the need to avoid roadside bombs and other insurgent activity.
Russia’s Caucasus region is currently not recommended for foreign visitors due to ongoing instability that has its origins in the politics of the region and is punctuated by frequent attacks by rebel groups.
TRM however has strong links with bloodstock breeders and race trainers in Russia and travelling with his Russian Distributors, two members of REVA (Russian Equine Veterinary Association), an interpreter and a local guide, who also acted as a bodyguard, Tom more than achieved his sales targets.
“I travel to Russia probably twice a year, but this was more than the average trip; quite an experience in fact”, Tom admitted, continuing, “I had introductions to a number of well run and very successful yards in the Caucasus region and in terms of new business for TRM, it was extremely successful, but definitely not the most relaxed foreign sales visit I’ve made!”
The Household Cavalry
The peerless pageantry and flawless performance of Britain's Household Cavalry requires horses and riders to demonstrate extreme commitment and skill. This skill has now been captured, alongside a kaleidoscope of colour, sound, movement and spirit, by Henry Dallal on a DVD entitled Pageantry and Performance, that was released in July.
Henry Dallal’s commitment to the photographic documentation of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment and Household Division troops has created a noble artistic presentation that weaves his camera into the fabric of the Regiment itself. The result is a fascinating DVD documenting the creative process; featuring interviews with military historian professor Richard Holmes, Lieutenant General Simon Mayall, Deputy Chief of Defence Staff (Operations) and Major-General Sir Evelyn Webb-Carter, KCVO, OBE; who commanded the Household Division.
Extending beyond the usual picture postcard photo treatment of the Household Cavalry, this DVD offers equine pageantry from an inside view of the Regiment leading up to official portraits of Her Majesty The Queen. Originally projected as a son et lumiere spectacle inside the walls of Windsor Castle, this DVD provides an intimate portrait of British Pageantry and Performance.
Presented in a special 6 page fold-out sleeve and beautifully designed slipcase, Pageantry & Performance, Limited Edition Digi Pack is priced at £15.99. For further details please contact Vikki Highfield on 01474 834986 or at [email protected]
New Gibbins Flamemaster Fleece
The new Gibbins Flamemaster Fleece is made from the popular Flamemaster material which Gibbins use for their popular lightweight chaps.
You can hold a naked flame against the material without burning a hole into it; the inside is lined with micro fleece so it will keep you nice and warm.
At the back it has a fold down flap which keeps your back nice and warm.
The Flamemaster Fleece has 2 front pockets with a 3/4 zip at the front.
Available in sizes S-M-L-XL-XXL
Profit from hoof boots
The hoof boot market is here to stay and is growing – and farriers can make some profit from it. Pricing of the Cavallo Hoof Boots has been structured to allow farriers to make a respectable margin on their sale. With a recommended retail price of £99.95 (£85.06 plus VAT), these boots are available to farriers from Atlantic Equine or your local supplier for around £62.50 plus VAT.
“Farriers are obviously the best people to recommend hoof boots,” said Tony Lindsell of Atlantic Equine. “They can advise whether their use is appropriate, they can fit the boot to the correct size, and will, of course, trim the hoof in preparation for wearing the boot. In the context of all these added services, there is no reason why a farrier should not charge the full recommended retail price for the boots.”
The Cavallo hoof boots are available in a number of versions, all including pastern wraps. The original ‘Simple’ all-purpose, all-terrain boot, with front loading and two velcro closures, has been hugely popular with riders over recent years and can now be bought in brown (sizes 3, 4 and 5) and pink (sizes 0 – 3), as well as the original black.
A new boot has been added to the Cavallo range, the ‘Sport’. This is a lighter boot with a less pronounced tread pattern, suitable for use on less challenging terrain. The ‘Sport’ has a polyester and leather upper, and reflective piping around the boot. It retains the effective and simple front-loading, but has a single velcro closure with security tab. The ‘Sport’ is expected to be popular with those who want to see fashion as well as function on their horse’s feet, and is currently available in sizes 3, 4 and 5.
All versions of Cavallo hoof boots are the same price and attract the same farrier discount.
For information on sizing, please visit the Atlantic Equine website www.atlantic-equine.co.uk or contact us on 01327 314880 for a sizing chart.
easysharp
" Extend the life of your rasps !
Simple and effective way to sharpen your new rasps ... and keep them sharp "
call Jeff Newnham 01424 210516 / 07715273589 "
New products from Arthur Cottam Horseshoes
As part of Arthur Cottam Horseshoes continuing development of its drop forged Equishoe range of horseshoes, it has launched two new shoes within the range.
Equishoe Roller Lites
A new side clipped front shoe with a strong toe shape allowing fitting to be set back under foot to increase breakover, the outside of the section has a large radius through out the shoes’ full length to reduce brushing in any direction. It features advanced nail hole positioning allowing correct fitment of clips with lots of pitch to help with nailing on.
Equishoe Ultimate
Designed specifically for farriers wanting left and right handed hinds, in common with other Equishoes, these shoes seated out to reduce sole pressure and safed off at the heels. The inside heel is slimmer than the outside (feathered) and slightly shorter, a true handed hind shoe. The shoes have increased nail pitch over standard Equishoes and bigger clips in line with other European horseshoes.
Contact: Arthur Cottam Horseshoes on 01246 453672.
Email: [email protected] Web: www.cottamhorseshoes.com
The easy way to Tool Maintenance from Londonderry Forge Supplies
When you are working with tools that are in good condition they are so much more efficient than those which are worn and tired. Using the knife / rasp sharpening kit from Londonderry Forge Supplies you will be able to keep your tools in first class order.
Rasps are an everyday essential tool for you, the farrier. They represent a significant cost to your business whichever brand you use. Wouldn’t it be great if you could extend their useful life?
We have the perfect answer – our knife and tool maintenance kit can be used to SHARPEN YOUR RASPS IN SECONDS. The life of your rasps can be extended beyond your expectations by simply and quickly sharpening them, from new, each day. It only takes a moment to revitalize each rasp and there is no need to use noxious chemical solutions and critical timing. Results are astounding; using this method it is not unusual to get 7 or 8 weeks use from both your clenching and dressing rasps. UNBELIEVEABLE BUT TRUE. We have received many positive reports from satisfied customers.
The full kit costs less than £200.00 so it is very cost effective and soon pays for itself through the savings you make on rasps alone. Of course, the kit is equally useful in sharpening and honing your knives to a very high standard and maintaining buffers; stamps; pritchels; fullers; hoof nippers etc. in top class order, which also saves you time and money. IT IS WIN WIN ALL THE WAY!
The equipment is quick and easy to install in your van or workshop; the kit contains ample supplies of all that you need to sharpen rasps, hoof knives and maintain tools. All the items are in stock, at reasonable prices, to replenish your kit when needed.
For further details and to learn more about the knife and rasp sharpening kit please contact
LONDONDERRY FORGE SUPPLIES.
Freephone: 0808 2024578
Tel: 01677 422587
Fax: 01677 426587
email: [email protected]
www.forgesupplies.co.uk
Trelawne Equine is a new company formed in 2009 to become the new distributors of the Easycare range of hoof boots in the UK.
The Easycare range, which includes the new Glove as well as established brands such as the Boa and Old Mac’s multipurpose horse boot, is the market leader in the UK. The modern hoof boot has come along way from the original Easyboot designed by Dr Neel Glass 30 years ago, and have proven themselves in many countries and disciplines, including some of the toughest endurance rides around the world.
Farriers are in the perfect position to be able to advise their clients if a hoof boot will be right for their horse, and are best qualified to help with selection and fitting if needed. Booting is the ideal solution for a horse with weak horn, badly chipped or cracked feet, slow growth, abscess, white line disease or any other problem that means the horse either cannot be shod or ideally needs to be rested from shoes. Often a horse has poor feet that could do with having a break from shoes but the rider doesn't want to rest the horse without shoes as they want to continue riding. Hoof boots allow the horse to continue working whilst resting the hooves, giving quality horn for the farrier to work with when shoes are reapplied. Ensuring your client has a hoof boot or two in their tack room is also a good way of reducing emergency call outs to replace lost shoes between sets, and ensures the hoof is not further damaged by being left bare.
For more information or to place an order, phone Trelawne Equine on 0844 257 8585 (local rate)
For detailed product information, visit our website
www.trelawneequine.co.uk or for a trade and retail pricelist & catalogue email [email protected] or phone the number above.
Atlantic Equine has launched a new hoofcare and farriery products website on www.atlantic-equine.co.uk.
Targeted at hoofcare professionals of all kinds, the website contains four main sections – equine hoofcare, bovine hoofcare, horseshoes and nails, and tools.
All the products for which Atlantic Equine is the UK importer and distributor (namely, Victory Racing Plates, Equilox, Vallorbe Rasps, SoundHorse Glue-on Shoes, the Elite Competition Shoe, Mondial Nails) are listed on the site, as well as many other hoofcare products, shoes, tools, adhesives and accessories.
The structure of www.atlantic-equine.co.uk allows visitors to order the required quantity of any one product in multiple sizes without having to move back and forth to the shopping basket.
The resource centre on the site is designed to contain product instructions on many different regularly-used hoofcare products.
Visitors who wish to receive email updates on special offers and new products can join the site’s email list via a simple form, and customers can check in their account the content of previous orders.
The site was designed by Athernet Solutions of Chorley, Lancashire and uses Secure Trading for its secure online payment system, “This system provides a firewalled environment for credit card purchases which is far safer than paying by credit card over the telephone,” said Tony Lindsell, a directory of the company.
Products are still being input on the site. Visitors are encouraged to email [email protected] if they do not yet find on it a product that they were used to buying on the old site.
*Keratex medicated Hoof & Leg Scrub*
Keratex Hoofcare, one of the world's leading equine hoofcare product ranges, are celebrating the launch of their new product, Keratex medicated Hoof & Leg Scrub. Formulated using revolutionary antimicrobial Byotrol technology (www.byotrol.com), medicated Hoof & Leg Scrub is available in a 300ml trigger spray bottle. The product foams on contact and can be left as it is or scrubbed onto hooves, frogs, soles, heels and pasterns. Importantly it can also be scrubbed or sponged onto leg abrasions to thoroughly cleanse and disinfect scabs or damaged skin, making it ideal in the treatment, prevention or relief of mud fever and cracked heels. This can be used in conjunction with all of the Keratex range, including international best sellers: Keratex Mud Shield Powder, Keratex Hoof Hardener and Keratex Hoof Gel.
More information can be found on www.keratex.com or by calling
01373 827649.
New Sealskinz equestrian products
Three new SealSkinz® products have been designed for the Equestrian market and were on display at the Horse of the Year show at the Birmingham NEC in October.
Catering for ever wetter and colder UK winters, the products are specially designed to offer the ultimate in waterproof, breathable, windproof and close-fitting protection - to keep wearers warm, dry and comfortable. Every product is made with unique patented technology, which works via a seamless three-layer construction – an outer, a waterproof highly breathable membrane, plus an inner lining.
SealSkinz® Equestrian range is used by professional riders and amateurs alike.
The range is designed for those spending time enjoying country pursuits who are exposed to tough outdoor conditions. This year, the range has been strengthened with the addition of a new country sock, mid-calf sock and wide-brimmed bush hat. The new products join its existing range of gloves and hats.
Seventy per cent of SealSkinz® socks and gloves are manufactured in the UK. For further information please contact SealSkinz® on 01553 817 991 or e-mail [email protected] .
Congratulations to the lucky winner of a pair of SealSkinz gloves from the October issue of Forge: Meg Ratcliffe
Hoof supplement takes on mammoth challenge
For visitors to Cottbus Zoo in eastern Germany, watching the elephants bathing in the river is a big attraction. But when 42-year-old Karla developed foot trouble, it looked as if elephant bath time could soon be a thing of the past. The zoo’s director and vet turned to Life Data Labs to help solve the problem.
.gif)
.gif)
Elephants have been hugely popular with visitors ever since 1969, when Karla’s companion Sundali moved into her new home, set in beautiful parkland between the River Spree and Cottbus’s Branitzer Park, about 140 km south-east of Berlin. So Karla’s health was a big worry for Dr Jens Kämmerling, Cottbus’s zoo director.
“Older elephants in particular often suffer from various toe nail problems,” he says. “Karla showed plenty of toe horn growth, but because the horn was of poor quality her toes kept developing cracks and holes in the toe wall.”
The zoo’s vet recommended adding the equine hoof supplement Farrier’s Formula to Karla’s feed. Since the product worked well in horses, maybe it could help elephants too, he thought.
After about a year on the hoof supplement the elephant’s feet are in much better shape and Dr Kämmerling is happy with the results. “You can see and feel the improvement in the horn quality and Karla no longer needs veterinary treatment for her feet. “On the basis of our experience, I can recommend Farrier’s Formula without reservation.”
Farrier’s Formula was created 30 years ago by Dr Frank Gravlee, founder of Alabama-based Life Data Labs, to promote healthy dermal tissue in horses. He tested blood collected from hundreds of horses to determine which nutrients were lacking in horses with poor-quality hooves. The supplement has been the number one recommended product by US farriers for 12 consecutive years.
The TRAAKiT Satellite Alerting Device
TRAAKiT is a new satellite-alerting device, which gives peace of mind by keeping watch over almost anything, and alerting you if it is moved.
No other product on the market provides a greater level of security, reliability, functionality and flexibility and the concept is simple. You decide the boundaries where you want your ‘prized possession’ to be within via PC or mobile phone. The TRAAKiT computer system then sets up a ‘virtual fence’ around it.
If the position of your TRAAKIT is moved outside the ‘fence’, the host computer alerts you by sending a text message and an email. The TRAAKiT monitor will then send its position to the host computer every five minutes, so that you can see precisely where your possession is going and act accordingly.
TRAAKiT is primarily aimed at protecting equipment such as quad bikes, classic cars and motor bikes, horse boxes, vans, lorries, caravans, camper vans, trailers, expensive tools and machinery, laptops, cameras and golf clubs but the uses it is put to grows by the day. To demonstrate the product’s versatility in the coming months, Traakit will be used to plot the paths of teams in extreme sport marathons, a band on tour and even a backpacking gap year student!
For more information about this remarkable innovation and the people behind it, please go to www.traakit.co.uk or contact [email protected]. A TRAAKiT TD1 monitor costs £275 including VAT and delivery in the UK and a monthly service contract costs £16.50 per month. For a limited period of time a launch discount is available.
Rotary spreader does poo
Fed up with excess manure cluttering up the stable yard and attracting flies? The answer’s quick, easy and affordable – with Elite Ground Products’ unique rotary spreaders, you can turn it into a free, easy-to-apply fertiliser for fields and paddocks.
Designed for fast and efficient spreading of manure and bedding materials including shavings, sawdust, chopped straw, and paper, the spreaders are land driven with no complicated requirements for power take-offs and hydraulic or electrical couplings. They hook up easily and quickly to the towing vehicle, with the robust wheels rated both to carry the fully loaded spreader and to rotate the barrel when the drive is engaged.
The spreaders use a combined rotating tumbling action, which, together with the abrasive nature of the diamond construction of the barrel skin, breaks down the contents and discharges shredded material evenly.
Developed to be easy to manoeuvre around the yard for direct loading from stables or pens, spreaders can also be used as mobile stores. Performance is not affected by weather conditions, with the spreaders working equally well with dry, wet and frozen material.
Elite spreaders are eco-friendly, too, releasing manure and other contents as small particles, which dry out and break down quickly. This method returns valuable nutrients, enzymes and microbial organisms to the soil quickly and efficiently within days of spreading, allowing grazing to recommence almost immediately.
For further details on Elite Ground Products rotary spreaders, call Jo Kolind on 01743 762222, email [email protected] or visit www.elitegroundproducts.com
Swan Products has launched its new website this summer - www.gasforges.co.uk
It is easier to navigate and includes:
• Details of all our forges including dimensions and gas consumption charts
• Details of all our products
• A servicing and refurbishment page
• A FAQ’s page which includes video clips to help you keep your forge running efficiently and safely.
• Anti-Bac orders can now be completed quickly and easily online.
New Products from Vallorbe and Victory
Vallorbe Swiss and The Victory Racing Plate Company have recently launched new products, both in stock and available from UK distributor Atlantic Equine Ltd.
Vallorbe's 912 'New Finishing Side' rasp is a further development of the already popular rasp. Well-known for its longevity and service life, the new finish side results in a smoother finish that the original version and has been very well received by farriers.
Victory have announced the RX aluminium plate. This is a development of the Wide-Trak plate, incorporating very strong, forged clips and handed hinds.
Available currently in Sizes 5-7, the plate will also soon be available in Size 4.
"The RX gives racing farriers yet another string to their bow - a wider section, hard-wearing plate from the market-leading Victory arsenal," said Tony Lindsell of Atlantic Equine.
Samples of the RX plate and special offer trial prices on the Vallorbe 912 'New Finishing Side' rasp are available from Atlantic Equine - Tel: 01327 314880 or Send and Email
Captions left to right: 'The new Victory RX plate';: 'Vallorbe 912 old finishing side'; 'Vallorbe 912 new finishing side'
Handmade Shoes (UK) Ltd
New Website Launched - www.handmadeshoesltd.co.uk
Handmade Shoes (UK) Ltd are delighted to announce the launch of their new website. This is the first part of an exciting two stage development; the second stage will include the facility to shop online.
Visit and explore the website now -
• to view the product range including details of all new products
• to learn about the manufacturers and their products
• to keep up-to-date with news at Handmade Shoes
• to view reports and photographs from Clinics and Competitions past and present
Do join the mailing list to keep in touch with the latest developments!
Stromsholm
New Internet Shopping Site.
Farriers can purchase shoes, rasps and maddox nails online, because these items are for sale on the online shop they are subject to big discounts.
Go to Web Link for details
Eastlake & Beachell.
How will you pay your bills if you are unable to work through accident, illness or injury? Forge 2009 - New Insurer . Improved wording policy . Revised rates with no increase . Same level of service. Call Catherine or Michelle on 0116 2044604 and 2044602. Email Web Link
Imprint launch imprint sport shoe
Web Link
Imprint launch imprint sport shoe
Imprint Equine Foot Care chose the Festival of British Eventing to launch the latest addition to the range, the Imprint Sport Shoe.
One-Day Events present a particular combination of challenges for horse and rider, so this competition at Gatcombe Park in early August provided a relevant backdrop.
During a short presentation to the equine press, Jane Holderness-Roddam introduced the flexible and light-weight shoe made from modern plastic materials. Likening the comfort experienced by the horse that of ‘crocs’ as worn by humans, she was also able to share her own experience of the new shoe. Having had her own event horse, Ike, shod a number of times, Jane commented that she had been seeing ongoing improvements in the horse’s performance and hoof condition since he was fitted with Imprint Sport Shoes.
Andrew Poynton FWCF, who heads up the company, went on to explain a little more about the new shoe. Andrew is a farrier who specialises in remedial farriery and developed the Imprint mouldable horse shoe originally for that purpose.
The Sport Shoes are specifically aimed at the performance horse and are designed to provide a protective role to maintain the integrity of the hoof wall over a variety of different surfaces and paces.
The shoes are made from modern, composite polymers which when heated become malleable and capable of taking on any shape. Once cooled the plastic hardens to the same toughness as the hoof itself and assumes a role as part of the hoof. It achieves an excellent fit helping to restore natural hoof movement whilst providing shock absorption and cushioning qualities.
Andrew was clear to point out that he too came from the rich heritage of traditional farriery passed down through the centuries and was not about to throw the baby out with the bath water, but it was generally acknowledged that sometimes horses have problems and conventional nailed-on horseshoes can have limitations.
We understand that so far that has been a steady take up of farriers attending the Imprint training courses to learn how to fit the shoes and that the craft appears receptive to the concept.
Imprint aren’t the first to make shoes from material other than steel, but this certainly seems to be something we will be hearing a lot more about.
Atlantic Equine.
For further information, please contact Atlantic Equine Ltd on 01327 314880 or e-mail: [email protected] or visit www.atlantic-equine.co.uk
Email Web Link
MONDIAL REDS
THE NEW Mondial 'Red' nails are now in stock with distributor Atlantic Equine across the full range and going extremely well.
With an improved point and bevel on the nails, a smoother surface and a new finishing process, the Mondial Reds have been very well received by farriers across the country.
“If you are bemoaning the sudden appearance then disappearance of the 'C' nail,” said Tony Lindsell of Atlantic Equine, “then, take a look at the quality and value you still get from Mondial.”
Despite the recent price increases, a box of 500 Mondial E5 nails, for instance, is still only £15.65 + VAT. This compares very favourably with most other makes.
Mondial nails are available from Atlantic Equine Ltd by mail order or online, or from your local farriers’ supplier. Just ask for Mondial RED.
Abbey Saddlery.
Contact Abbey for more information and local stockists on
01565 650343 or visit www.abbeysaddlery.co.uk
Web Link
Fiebing Hoof Care from Abbey
It seems odd to be thinking about hot weather hoof care in the middle of a cold spell but it is well known that in hot weather and on hard, dry ground horse’s hooves quickly become dry leading to cracks.
Fine grass cracks around the edge of hooves are not too serious and can be cured with regular treatment from a farrier but sand cracks starting at the top of the hoof are more difficult to rectify.
Farriers now that it is important to apply a good quality hoof oil and grease daily to prevent prevent cracks from spreading. Abbey has a wide range of Fiebing products including a hoof dressing complete with a brush for easy application.
Equissage
For further information and a FREE demonstration on Equissage,
please contact 0800 072 1180 or visit www.equissage.co.uk
Web Link
Improve Hoof Quality and Foot Problems with Equissage
The Equissage massage system delivers a unique cycloidal massage to every part of the body. It has the ability to improve local blood circulation, reduce swelling, release tension, and improve joint mobility as well as targeting many other specific problems.
Foot problems can be addressed directly with the hand held unit and problems elsewhere on the body, which often have a knock-on effect on the feet, can be improved by using the massage pad daily.
Some horses have poor hoof quality and by using Equissage to increase the blood flow to the feet and improve local blood circulation, horn growth can be encouraged.
Foot problems such as bruised soles, seedy toe and laminitis may also be improved by the unique cycloidal vibrations. As foot problems often result in reduced mobility, Equissage can help to prevent stiff joints and improve venous and lymphatic drainage.
Helping to promote general health and wellbeing, the Equissage pad also helps to condition the horse’s skin and coat.
EasySharp – The liquid that sharpens tools.
Don’t throw away your old rasp! Learn how to resharpen your rasp and other tools and save money THE SUPER EASY WAY!
Find out how by contacting David Manuel 001 859 312 4412
or www.easysharpliquid.com email: [email protected].
Email Link Web Link
One user's experience of Farrier's Manager
By John Fligg, Managing Director, Ambrit Software
At this year’s Hoofcare Summit in Cincinatti, Ohio, at the beginning of February, Ambrit’s Farrier’s Manager was delighted to discover that it is virtually a household name in the USA – ‘certainly among the delegates who attended’ and the recognition of the need for the software is apparent.
Kelly Robison of Newark, Ohio, uses Ambrit’s Farrier’s Manager software on a daily basis and has really got to grips with using it to help her support her husband in his business. This is what she says.
‘My husband is a farrier and I take care of all of his billing, scheduling and ordering. I have used the Ambrit Farrier's Manager software for almost a year now, and I'm sure that I do not use the program to it's fullest potential. I find it fairly user friendly and I love the updates*. If someone requests something specific, the great people at Ambrit will take the time to create a ‘patch’** that you can download to the program that will add specific needs for people. Sometimes the additions are things I am not interested in using immediately, but it is always great to have them just in case I might need them in the future. If there are any problems, it is very easy to get a hold of John via email and he works very quickly to help you out.’
‘Currently, we do not have a laptop so we give handwritten receipts and put the information in our desktop when we get home. I love how the software keeps track of who has paid and who has not. In the past, I would have to go back through all of the handwritten receipts to see who had paid and undoubtedly, we would find someone that was several months late or even up to almost a year! It is embarrassing when you send a bill so late, and it makes us as a business look bad. Now, I just open up the program and scroll though the invoices and the late payments are highlighted. If I need to send a bill from home, I always use Farrier’s Manager because it looks much more professional. I also love how it gives reports of how much we have made from each client, how much we have made for the week/month/year and how much we have spent on supplies.
Our goal this year is to get a laptop so we can dispose of the handwritten receipts and use Farrier’s Manager to its fullest potential. Overall, I am very pleased with our purchase and the people at Ambrit software couldn’t be more helpful.’
Kelly Robison
Hickory Ridge Farrier, LLC
295 Belle Vista Ave.
Newark, OH 43055
* An ‘update’ is a larger download that introduces new features.
** A ‘patch’ is a small download that puts right minor things in the program that we have found or been reported.
top products
