Horsemen's Council of Illinois

01/09/2024

Since it appears to be winter in Illinois… at least for the next couple of weeks

Try these tips for keeping the professionals who care for your horse comfortable this season.>>>https://bit.ly/EQWinterFarrierCare

01/08/2024

Always consult with your vet before making changes/adjustments to your horse's diet.

During these cold winter days you may be thinking about offering bran mashes to your horse as a warm, comforting treat and also as a way to help prevent colic due to the higher fiber content of bran. This, however, is an outdated concept and nutritionists point out several potential problems associated with feeding bran mash too often—namely, an imbalance of the dietary calcium-phosphorus ratio that could lead to bone disorders, and a disruption of the healthy fermentation patterns in the horse’s intestinal tract.

The best way to help your horse stay warm this winter is by increasing forage 🌾 and providing shelter 🏠 during a cold snap. And as far as the risk of colic, your first line of defense is to provide plenty of water to keep your horse hydrated. 💦

As always, your equine veterinarian remains your best source of information; contact them to learn more about feeding mashes (they are typically not an issue if fed as the occasional treat) and colic prevention this winter.
•
Brough to you by the AAEP Horse Owner Education Committee

01/05/2024

It is one of life's great mysteries...

01/04/2024

If you work in equine rescue, this could be valuable information for you and your organization in 2024 (and beyond).

As we look forward to 2024, what are your goals as a rescue, sanctuary or rehabilitation center?

This link includes links to materials and outside organizations that can provide assistance and guidance to Equine Rescues, Rehabilitation Centers, and Sanctuaries regarding available Equine Welfare Grants and Grant writing materials. It's part of our UHC Educational Materials:
https://unitedhorsecoalition.org/uhc-educational-materials/resources-for-rescues/

01/03/2024

Discover how each region of your horse’s digestive system works in this visual guide.

Discover how each region of your horse's digestive system works in this visual guide.

01/02/2024

👇👇👇

Your basic horse-care routine won’t change significantly in the winter. You’ll need to keep up your horse’s medications (if any), hoof care, grooming, and regular veterinary checks.

Your horse’s basic nutrition requirements also won’t change; he’ll need adequate water, forage, supplements, warmth, and exercise. The only changes will be his winter-specific risks and your risk-avoidance strategies.

𝑪𝒉𝒆𝒄𝒌 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒔𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒊𝒑𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒌𝒆𝒆𝒑 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒉𝒐𝒓𝒔𝒆 𝒉𝒚𝒅𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒕𝒉𝒚.

For more information on building a winter health checklist, give this article a read. --> https://horseandrider.com/horse-health-care/winter-feeding-checklist/

01/01/2024

Happy New Year's (and birthday!!)

12/29/2023

Horse: Mental note, don't drop the small predator ✅

12/28/2023

SURVEY TIME: If your horse could make a New Year's Resolution, what would it be?

12/25/2023

Wishing all a Merry Christmas. May you spend it with those you love

12/21/2023

SURVEY TIME: Will you do anything special for your horse on Christmas day?

12/20/2023

Flu season is upon us.

Here’s how to protect your horse from this highly contagious respiratory virus.

12/19/2023

Interested in giving romals a try but unsure where to start? Check out what two experts have to say on choosing and using the traditional tack correctly and in the best way for your horse.

Looking to try romal reins? Our experts offer advice for picking your set and using them.

12/18/2023

If a new saddle is on someone's wishlist this year...

The smell of leather and saddles galore - the tack store is a wonderful place. Put these tips to the test to saddle shop like a pro.

12/15/2023

12/14/2023

SURVEY TIME: What is on your horse's (or horses') holiday wish list this year?? 🎁🎁

12/13/2023

At its finest, horse and rider are joined not by tack but by trust. Each is totally reliant on the other. Each is the selfless guardian of the other's well-being. ~ Author Unknown

12/12/2023

HCI's annual meeting is tomorrow evening (December 13th) at 7 P.M via Zoom. If you would like to join us, sign up for free at the link provided: https://form.jotform.com/233027562081046

12/12/2023

Studies show no connection between gender or coat color and behavior. Yet, say the researchers, chestnut mares are often subject to a double dose of prejudice.

12/11/2023

What to Know When Calling Your Vet

12/07/2023

Quick reminder, join HCI next Wednesday, December 13th at 7 P.M. via Zoom for our annual meeting. We will have updates on pending legislation concerning the equine community, a trails update, and more. Follow the link to register for free: https://form.jotform.com/233027562081046

12/06/2023

Knowing what to do—and what not to do—in a horse transport incident can mean the difference between a positive outcome and a tragic ending.

Knowing what to do—and what not to do—in a horse transport incident can mean the difference between a positive outcome and tragic ending.

12/05/2023

Again we hate to say it but... winter is coming.🥶

From nutrition considerations to preventing mud, it’s time to get your horses ready for winter.

12/05/2023

Looking for the perfect gift for the horse lovers on your list? Shop the HCI online store for HCI-branded apparel and more. Just follow the link: https://hci.wildapricot.org/Online-Store

12/04/2023

Remember to always follow the instructions given by your veterinarian and be sure to consult them if you have questions about applying a hoof bandage, as your primary horse doctor is your best source of advice.

11/30/2023

SURVEY TIME: Now that the colder weather is here (for a little while at least), will you body clip your horse(s) for the winter?

11/28/2023

A horse’s ridden or competitive career doesn’t have to end just because of an OA diagnosis. Two authorities on older horse care share tips for conditioning horses with osteoarthritis.

Two authorities on older horse care share tips for conditioning horses with osteoarthritis.