Equi Strength - Equine Muscular & Laser Therapy UK

19/01/2025

Bit Pressure & Your Horse's Mouth: What Science Says 🐴🔬

We all want our horses to be comfortable and happy in their work. But have you ever stopped to consider the impact of the bit in their mouth? Science is shedding light on how bit pressure affects our equine partners, and it's important to be informed.

Key Findings from Research:
* Mouth Sensitivity: The horse's mouth is incredibly sensitive, containing numerous nerve endings. Studies have shown that even slight pressure from a bit can activate these nerves, potentially causing discomfort or pain. (source: Equine Veterinary Journal)

* Stress Response: Research indicates that bit pressure can trigger physiological stress responses in horses, such as increased heart rate and cortisol levels. This highlights the importance of using gentle and consistent rein aids. (source: University of Guelph study)

* Behavioral Changes: Horses may exhibit behavioral signs of discomfort due to bit pressure, including head tossing, tongue lolling, or resistance to the bit. These signals should never be ignored.

* Impact on Performance: Studies have found that excessive bit pressure can negatively affect a horse's gait and performance, hindering their natural movement and athleticism.

What Can We Do?
* Proper Bit Fit: Ensure your horse's bit is properly fitted and adjusted. An ill-fitting bit can cause pinching, rubbing, and uneven pressure.

* Soft Hands: Develop soft and responsive hands to minimize unnecessary pressure on the bit.

* Consider Alternatives: Explore bitless bridles or alternative bit designs that may offer a gentler approach.

* Listen to Your Horse: Pay attention to your horse's behavioral cues and adjust your riding accordingly.

05/01/2025

Happy 2025 🎉

This year, I'm going to regularly post short blogs on relevant topics throughout the year. Some maybe controversial, some "well-known" and others may ignite conversation. But that's whats good about our community - we're always learning and changing.

So, to start: Why Turnout is Vital for Your Horse - Backed by Science! 🐴🔬

We know that providing your horse with turnout everyday is essential for their overall health and well-being, but there are some even more incredible benefits if you provide more than 20 hours of turnout a day!

Science shows us that turnout has a profound impact on their physical and mental health.

Science-Backed Benefits of Turnout:
* Reduced Risk of Colic: Studies have shown that horses kept in stables for long periods have a higher risk of colic. Turnout allows for natural grazing behaviour, promoting gut motility and reducing the risk of impaction colic. (source: University of Nottingham study)

* Improved Respiratory Health: Stabling horses exposes them to dust and ammonia, which can irritate their respiratory system. Turnout provides fresh air, reducing the risk of respiratory problems like equine asthma.

* Stronger Bones and Joints: Research indicates that horses with access to extended turnout have greater bone density and healthier joints. Movement and exercise are crucial for maintaining strong bones and preventing arthritis. (source: Journal of Equine Veterinary Science)

* Enhanced Mental Well-being: Turnout allows horses to socialize, explore, and engage in natural behaviors, reducing stress and boredom. Studies have even shown that horses living out 24/7 are more willing to work during training sessions! (source: University of Goettingen study)

Remember: Every horse and situation is unique.

21/12/2024

I'm signing off for 2024! I hope all my lovely clients have a great Christmas and I'll see you all in 2025!

06/12/2024

On behalf of client

Talented project looking for a new postcode 🏡

16.2hh 6 year old ISH gelding. Bred in the purple to event and shows talent to climb the levels.

Negatives: he is far from a novice's horse as you can get. Requires experienced handling on the ground as well as a patient and experienced rider.

He would suit a talented rider without the funds to buy a horse of this calibre without his 'quirks'.

Low to mid 4 figs. Homes will be fully vetted.

Located West Berk/Hampshire border.

29/10/2024

13/10/2024

The temperature is dropping so we'll start to see an increase in colic and colic symptoms.

There's a few things we can do to help prevent it:
☆ Keep your horse hydrated
☆ Provide as much turnout as possible
☆ Fed ad-lib forage

If you see any signs of colic, consult your vet ASAP.

Diagram credits: Equine 74 Gastric

12/10/2024

28/06/2024

Are you close to West Berkshire (or even Herefordshire)?

I've been asked to be involved in an equestrian magazine and I need more photos of horses and of their riders!

In return, your horse will get a free treatment and reduced rates for the next year!

A bit more info:
• Horse or pony must be in work
• Ideally over 14.2hh and rider must be over 18 years old
• Photos may be used within a magazine and/or on social media
• All rights of the photos must be signed over to Equi Strength
• Photos may be of treatments, ridden (flatwork/jumping), in hand or lunging - requirements will be discussed
• In some circumstances, an NDA may need to signed

Drop me a PM if you're interested and would like to know more

29/05/2024

There's so much R&D going into glue-on shoes that it's really developing into a great alternative to nailed shoes.

What's your thoughts?

10/05/2024

💙 What can a class 3b laser do? 💙

There were only 2 weeks between photos.

This lovely sports horse managed to get kicked which then got infected. Working alongside the clients vets, we treated every 2/3 days for 2-3 weeks with varying outputs to reach different parts of the leg to aid healing.

The main aim was to reduce swelling as it just wasn't budging. By using the laser we were able to speed up healing time and reduce swelling dramatically much quicker than expected.

08/05/2024

🌟 Testimonial 🌟

"I'll start with: if you're thinking of getting Jemma out to your horse, do!

I first spoke to Jemma in 2021 when I was having trouble with my prematurely retired connemara pony. He would be intermittently lame with soreness along his back. While dreamt of bringing him back into work, my main aim was to help him become comfortable with retired life.

From the first moment of contact, Jemma listened to every word, yet questioned every small detail to get to the root of what was going on. Alongside working closely with her recommended veterinarian, an agreed plan was put into place (after extensive investigation from both).

Within 6 months the root of the lameness was found and a rehab programme created. At times, I contacted Jemma every single day asking for advice or to watch a video and every single day, Jemma would reply giving endless help.

I am now back competing my pony, and at a level a lot higher than before. I cannot begin to say how thankful I am and I'm certain, without Jemma, I would still have a retired pony. THANK-YOU!"