Charlie Carr IH Trainer & Equine Behaviourism Student Charlie Carr is a Brighton-based equine behaviourist, BHS instructor, and Intelligent Horsemanship (IH) Trainer with over 20 years of experience in the […]
Daisy Smith Confidence Coach & Founder of How Very Horsey Daisy Smith is a British equestrian, mindset coach, and founder of How Very Horsey, a consultancy dedicated to helping riders […]
Dr. Jessica Kidd Esteemed RCVS and European Recognised Specialist in Equine Surgery Dr. Jessica Kidd is an esteemed RCVS and European Recognised Specialist in Equine Surgery with over 25 years […]
Monty Roberts “The Man Who Listens to Horses” Monty Roberts, known as the “Man Who Listens to Horses” has led an extraordinary life. An award-winning trainer of championship horses, best-selling […]
Sue Palmer Veterinary Physiotherapist Sue Palmer MSc, known as The Horse Physio,, is an award-winning Chartered Physiotherapist with over 25 years in the equestrian industry. She has authored ‘Understanding Horse Performance’ […]
Clare MacLeod Independent Equine Nutritionist. Clare MacLeod MSc RNutr is a renowned Independent Equine Nutritionist. She has a background in nutrition for leading horse feed companies and offers professional, unbiased […]
Gillian Higgins Equine Therapist & Anatomist Gillian Higgins is a renowned equine therapist and anatomist, best known for her innovative approach to horse care through ‘Horses Inside Out‘. She educates […]
Professor Derek Knottenbelt Skin, Sarcoid & Head Shaking Expert Professor Emeritus Derek C. Knottenbelt OBE, BVM&S, DVM&S, DipECEIM, DACVIM, MRCVS, is a distinguished figure in veterinary medicine, renowned for his […]
Dr. Veronica Flower Virologist & Researcher Dr. Veronica Flower is a virologist and researcher with a profound interest in viral diseases and their impact on public health. Beyond her scientific […]
Dr. Warren Schofield Orthopaedic Veterinarian Dr. Warren Schofield is an orthopedic veterinarian specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. His expertise encompasses both surgical and non-surgical interventions, contributing […]
Dr. Sue Dyson World-Renowned Lameness Expert & Researcher Dr. Sue Dyson is a world-renowned expert in equine lameness, combining veterinary science with advanced diagnostic techniques to improve horse welfare. Her […]
Lucinda Green 6 Time Badminton Winner Lucinda Green, a legendary equestrian, has clinched the Badminton Horse Trials title six times, showcasing her exceptional skill in eventing. Her illustrious career, marked […]
Dr Chris Pearce Equine Veterinary Dentist Chris Pearce is a pioneering equine veterinary dentist. As the founder of the Equine Dental Clinic, he has significantly advanced equine dental practices. Pearce […]
Shaun Mandy Grand Prix Dressage Rider Shaun Mandy is a Grand Prix dressage rider and coach with a rich background in equestrian sport, beginning his journey in South Africa before […]
James Cooling IH Trainer & Bit and Bridle Fitting Expert James Cooling is a Bit and Bridle fitting expert and a founding member of the Association of Professional Bit and […]
Gary Pickford Remedial Farrier and Founder of Chapel Forge Farriery Gary Pickford, a world renown remedial farrier and founder of Chapel Forge Farriery, specializes in addressing complex hoof issues, working closely with […]
Ian Vandenberghe IH Trainer Breeding and Foaling Expert Ian Vandenberghe, an IH Trainer and breeding and foaling expert, boasts a lifetime of equestrian experience including Dressage, Stud Management, Foal Handling, […]
Julie Driver Equine Pilates Instructor Julie Driver, an acclaimed Equine Pilates instructor, enhances equestrian performance and wellness through Pilates. Awarded “Pilates Anytime” International Instructor of the Year, she specializes in […]
Charlie Unwin Renowned Performance Psychologist Charlie Unwin is a renowned performance psychologist and mental coach known for training anyone from equestrians, Olympic athletes, special forces soldiers, surgeons, musicians, fighter pilots, […]
Kelly Marks Founder of Intelligent Horsemanship, Kelly Marks, founder of Intelligent Horsemanship, work focused on horse psychology, communication and understanding to enhance horse-human relationships. Kelly Marks Content: Coming soon..
Professor Debra Archer Equine Surgery Specialist Debbie, a University of Glasgow graduate, completed her equine surgical residency at the University of Liverpool. She holds RCVS and ECVS certifications, and her […]
Dr. Andrew Hemmings Equine Brain Expert Dr. Andrew Hemming is a notable figure in equine science, specializing in equine behavior and neuroscience. He’s known for his research on equine stress […]
Sandra Williams IH Trainer, Teacher & Loading Expert Sandra Williams, is one of IH’s key trainers and course coordinator. She offers expertise in many areas including loading, Horse Agility and […]
Donna Blinman Veterinary Surgeon, Equine Osteopath & Dream Builder Coach Donna Blinman, BVSc MRCVS BSc EDO Cert. SCVA Cert. LMI, is a veterinary surgeon and equine osteopath. She operates her […]
Julia Fisher IH Trainer & Saddle/Rider Assessment Expert Julia Fisher, an Intelligent Horsemanship Trainer, specializes in Saddle Assessment and lectures on the Five Day Foundation course. She has studied extensively […]
Matthew Jackson Farrier Turned Trimmer Matthew Jackson qualified as a farrier originally but became more impressed by barefoot trimming as his experience grew. He studied the subject extensively and has […]
Bridget Colston IH Trainer & Enlighted Equitation Coach Bridget Colston, an IH Trainer since 2010 and Enlightened Equitation coach, focuses on enhancing horse-owner relationships through understanding horse perception. She believes […]
Suzie Fletcher English Master Saddler, TV Personality and Author Suzie Fletcher is a renowned English master saddler and leather expert, known for her role in a popular TV show. Beginning […]
Anna Welch Veterinary Nutrition Director Anna Welch BVSc BSc MRCVS is a highly qualified Veterinary Nutrition Director, contributing to the award-winning team at TopSpec. Graduating from the University of Liverpool’s […]
Angie Bailey Insurance Expert Angie Bailey combines her lifelong equestrian passion with professional expertise in equine insurance. Starting as a young rider, she transitioned into the insurance sector as a […]
Caroline Moore Renowned Rider & Event Coach Caroline Moore’s equestrian journey is a tale of inspiration, from her remarkable performances in prestigious events to her esteemed role as a coach. […]
Amy Skinner Trainer and Founder of Amy Skinner Horsemanship Amy Skinner of Amy Skinner horsemanship embraces a training philosophy based in Classical Dressage and sound horsemanship practices. Amy keeps the […]
David Sanders Sport Scientist & Coach David Sanders is a sport scientist with a focus on movement neurology. David has coached and educated riders and equestrian professionals across the world […]
Lockie Phillips Trainer & Founder of Emotional Horsemanship Lockie Phillips is an Australian horse trainer who lives in Spain. A retired professional ballet dancer, and the creator of Emotional Horsemanship, […]
Diane Gilby Parasitologist & Founder of Intelligent Worming Diane Gilby, founder of Intelligent Worming and CANTER spokesperson, has over 20 years of expertise in equine parasitology, advancing risk-assessed health plans at EPLA. An award-winning SQP, […]
Julianne Aston Founder of the Veteran Horse Society Julianne founded the Veteran Horse Society over 20 years ago, dedicating her life to the welfare, rehabilitation, and rehoming of horses aged 15 and […]
Dr. Rosie Jones McVey Intelligent Horsemanship Trainer & Social Anthropologist Dr Rosie Jones-McVey is a leading voice in equine welfare and training, combining hands-on expertise with cutting-edge academic research. A […]
Veterinary expert Dr. Jessica Kidd, who we were fortunate to have overseeing Hugo’s case, takes a deep dive into proximal suspensory desmitis (PSD) in this informative video. She breaks down why hindlimb PSD is more challenging to treat than forelimb cases, highlighting the anatomical constraints that make conservative treatment less effective.
Join Up ‘What Can I Do If I Don’t Have a Round Pen?’ Featuring IH Trainer
A Different Way To Try Join Up For Beginners – Learn This Way First Featuring Sandra Williams & Kelly Brotherhood
This video demonstrates initial groundwork exercises designed to build a connection with your horse and encourage them to willingly follow your lead. The focus is on gentle communication and establishing a partnership, not on scaring the horse.
You’ll see how the presenter approaches the horse calmly, establishes eye contact, and uses gentle movements to encourage the horse to move off and change direction. The importance of the handler’s confident body language is emphasized, ensuring the horse can see and follow them. Maintaining visual connection in these early stages is key.
Join Up with Kelly Marks Demonstration Featuring Kelly Marks
Full Join Up™ Guidance Join IH Trainer Sandra Williams for a demonstration of Intelligent Horsemanship methods for starting a young horse (or working with a new one). You’ll see a full Join-Up™, adhering to IH ‘guidelines to starting young horses’.
This video covers: a straight Join-Up™; safe tack introduction (training saddle/normal saddle & breast strap); a second send away with saddle (stirrups rolled); invitation in; correctly fitting hobble (with twist); long lining (walk, trot, 2 x direction changes, back up); safe line removal; introduction of rider (stroking, hobble as neck strap, attaching reins); safe leg-up positions (including showing offside eye); rider on (safe tight circles, hind leg stepping under); moving to a larger circle (if confident); safe rider removal; safe exit; self-tack removal; stroke, walk, safe pen exit. Throughout, we emphasise safety awareness and clear communication, demonstrating the initial stages of preparing a horse for ridden work using IH principles.
Many of us don’t have a DVD player these days… so here is an online version of the DVD that comes in the pack when you buy a Dually.
To watch the rest of Monty’s Dually videos visit the Equus Online University. Ⓒ Equus Online University 2004: All rights reserved.
Disclaimer: Please note no copyright infringement is intended, and I do not own nor claim to own any right to the original production by Equus Online University
Monty Roberts: Understanding & Using the Dually Halter.
In this video, I’m going to show you exactly how to fit your Dually Halter correctly. It’s so important to get this right to make sure it works effectively and is comfortable for your horse.
Dually Halters come in different colours, and these colours actually indicate the size, so you can get the perfect fit for your horse, whatever their breed or size. For example, the green one is the smallest, great for those lovely Welsh Mountain ponies. Red is a really versatile size that fits loads of horses, while black is ideal for your medium Thoroughbreds and smaller Warmbloods. And for the big lads, like extra-large draught horses, we’ve got the blue.
In this video IH Trainer Sandra William shares her key tips for getting the right fit with your Dually Halter. Using her own horse Jack. Starting with the initial setup of the halter and how to offer it to your horse in a way that’s often less intrusive. Getting the placement right on the nose and ensuring a comfortable yet secure fit under the throat are crucial, and I’ll guide you through what to look for. We’ll also touch on how the halter should sit to allow free movement and clear breathing. Plus, a quick reminder about rechecking the fit after a little use.
This video gives you a taste of the time I decided to enter Pie and myself into a TREC competition! Easy, right? 😉
You’ll see a session where I’m getting more than a few pointers on my technique for the tricky ‘low branches’ obstacle, followed by some exciting TREC competition footage and a bit of get-up-and-go inspiration!
This video captures my (very!) early experiences with Western riding – I think it was only my second time ever in public! So, you get to see me learning the ropes, which is always fun. We start with a bit of instruction on how to mount a Western saddle properly. There’s a specific way to hold the reins and place your hands, using the saddle horn for support. Then, we move on to using leg cues to get the horse moving, and the all-important “Whoa” command to stop.
In this video, I’m sharing some of the gentle stretching exercises I do with my amazing now 30 year old veteran horse, Pie. We’ve been together for almost two decades now, and just like us as we get a bit older, keeping Pie mobile and flexible is important for his well-being so he can continue to enjoy life (and maybe even a fun ride or two!).
How To Open A Gate While Riding Featuring Kelly Marks
The Giddy Up Rope – A Whip Alternative in Horse Training Featuring Kelly Marks Join Kelly Marks of Intelligent Horsemanship in this informative YouTube video as she introduces the “Giddy […]
How To Teach Your Horse To Back Up With The Dually Halter Featuring Kelly Marks
How to stand a horse up for a judge Featuring Daisy Smith of How Very Horsey Two minute video to show how to stand a horse up for a judge […]
This video demonstrates techniques to help horses become more comfortable with handling and potential injections. It focuses on a horse exhibiting extreme fear and avoidance behaviours when approached around the head or neck, likely due to a negative past experience. The video highlights the horse’s fearful reactions, such as rearing, tension, snorting, running backwards, and spinning. It then emphasizes the importance of establishing good general control, including leading, backing up, and responding to pressure.
In This video I show you how to make worming a much less stressful experience with a “cunning plan” to get Blondie used to the worming syringe. You’ll see how I initially let her sniff it and even seemingly lick it a bit. It’s all about letting her investigate and get familiar with it.
This video demonstrates techniques and principles for teaching your horse to stand still reliably in a variety of situations. Whether it’s for TREC competitions, farrier visits, veterinary procedures, grooming, or even tolerating applause, standing still is a skill your horse simply must master. You’ll see examples with Pie, who’s already pretty good at it, though the presence of a rather distracting donkey in the arena is noted!
Mastering Mounting: Tips For Fidgety Horses Featuring Dr Rosie Jones McVey This video offers techniques to help fidgety horses stand still at the mounting block. It demonstrates a circling exercise […]
Welcome back to Intelligent Horsemanship, your go-to channel for all things equine! In this video I’ll show you how to create a makeshift rope halter that is incredibly handy for those unexpected situations. Imagine encountering a loose horse, needing to safely catch a wild one or just simply forgetting to take your headcollar to the paddock.
This video gives you a real insight into the very early stages of working with a truly wild and frightened horse. This particular horse reminds me so much of an American Mustang – completely untouched and naturally wary. Our main aim here is to gently introduce a head collar using absolutely no force whatsoever.
In this video, we’re tackling a common challenge for horse owners: clipping a horse who absolutely hates it! Meet Billy, a lovely chap who usually needs to be sedated just to get the clippers anywhere near him. As I explain, for some horses like Billy, it’s not about being naughty – it’s genuine fear, anxiety, and sometimes even being terribly ticklish that makes clipping a real ordeal.
Head Lowering – Fireworks Acceptance Training Featuring Kelly Marks
Calming Circles – Fireworks Acceptance Training Featuring Kelly Marks
Join Dr. Rosie Jones McVey and Kelly Marks in this insightful video as they work with Ivor, a lovely Irish Draft horse who’s developed a real fear of poles. Despite being bought as a potential hunter, Ivor refuses to go anywhere near poles, even when they’re simply lying on the ground. This video demonstrates a gentle and effective approach to help Ivor overcome this fear so that he can eventually progress to jumping show jumps.
In this video, we’re taking a look at how to introduce young or inexperienced horses to ditch jumping for the very first time. We start right at the beginning, letting Barney have a good look at the plastic tray you often find at the bottom of competition ditches. Then, we progress to walking him over a flat representation – just some black plastic laid on the ground. It’s all about those small, steady steps!
This episode of “Horsemanship Essentials” focuses on addressing the common challenge of loading horses into trailers or lorries. Monty Roberts and Kelly Marks work with horses exhibiting significant resistance to loading.
This episode of “Horsemanship Essentials” demonstrates techniques for helping horses overcome their fear of clippers. Monty Roberts and Kelly Marks guide viewers through a step-by-step process using horses with real fears of clipping.
Horsemanship Essentials – Phobia Of Cows Featuring Kelly Marks, Monty Roberts and Team This episode documents Monty Roberts and Kelly Marks works with Calypso, a Thoroughbred cross Irish sports horse […]
This episode demonstrates techniques for helping a horse overcome an intense fear of tractors. The programme focuses on establishing a strong connection with the horse and gradually introducing the feared stimulus in a controlled manner.
Horsemanship Essentials – Control Of Emotions Featuring Kelly Marks, Monty Roberts and Team This episode of “Horsemanship Essentials” focuses on the crucial role of emotional control for humans when working […]
This episode of “Top Marks” features a live demonstration addressing common horse behavioural issues. The programme showcases gentle, step-by-step techniques aimed at building horses’ confidence and trust to help them overcome specific anxieties.
This episode details the efforts to train horses to be brave for different purposes. The programme focuses on acceptance training (desensitisation) with horses to various stimuli and helping them overcome specific phobias through gradual training techniques.
This episode of “Top Marks on the Road” features a loading clinic in Gloucester, where the host works with three horse owners and their horses to address loading difficulties. The programme details the initial challenges, the techniques used to overcome them, and the importance of understanding the root cause of each horse’s reluctance to load.
This episode of “Top Marks on the Road” focuses on a nappy horse ‘crash course’ where Kelly works with horses exhibiting reluctance to move forward or leave other horses. The programme documents the assessment and training interventions used to address this challenging behaviour.
Top Marks – Harry Goes Drag Hunting Featuring Kelly Marks and Team More Info Coming Soon…
This episode of “Top Marks on the Road” focuses on mounting issues experienced by three different horses and their owners in Somerset. The programme demonstrates initial training interventions aimed at helping these horses stand still and accept being mounted calmly.
This episode of Top Marks documents the initial activities and challenges faced by a team preparing for a horse demonstration event in Dorset. The programme focuses on assessing horses for suitability, addressing behavioural issues, and introducing young horses to the demonstration environment.
Addressing Equine Fears and Building Trust Through Understanding and Patience. This episode of “Top Marks – Facing Fears” focuses on addressing various behavioural challenges in horses through understanding, patience, and positive training techniques. The programme features demonstrations and discussions around horses with specific fears and anxieties.
Discover essential techniques for caring for older horses and effectively managing anxieties around vets and injections in this insightful Top Marks episode. Featuring renowned horse trainer and Intelligent Horsemanship founder Kelly Marks, alongside researcher Dr. Veronica Fowler, this programme offers practical, welfare-focused horse training strategies to enhance the well-being of veteran equines.
Top Marks – Trust is a Must Featuring Kelly Marks & IH Team This episode of Top Marks, titled “Trust Is A Must,” delves into the core principles of building […]
Top Marks – Next Generation Featuring Kelly Marks & IH Team This episode of “Top Marks – Next Generation” details a 5-day horsemanship course at Heartstop Farm. The programme focuses […]
This episode of “Top Marks – Great Expectations” provides insights into intelligent horsemanship. The programme focuses on the acquisition and initial integration of new horses, ethical considerations in horsemanship, and preparations for an upcoming tour.
This document, “7 Skills All Horse Owners Should Know,” by IHRA Sandra Williams, focuses on building a solid foundation with young horses before you even think about riding them. It’s all about establishing a strong bond and safe leadership through seven key ground-handling exercises. The main takeaway? Mastering these basics is absolutely crucial for both your safety and your horse’s well-being.
“The IH Ultimate Guide To Longlining” provides a comprehensive overview of long lining horses, a versatile training method with numerous benefits. It covers everything from the basics to advanced techniques, including navigating obstacles and long lining in different environments. The guide also touches on long reining for schooling and rebalancing horses.
“To Lunge, Or Not To Lunge,” a three-part series by vet physiotherapist Abi Pass MSc, explores the pros and cons of lunging, a somewhat controversial exercise. The guide emphasises the importance of clinical reasoning when deciding whether to lunge a specific horse, and discusses lungeing equipment and training aids.
This document, “Ground to Saddle,” by IH Trainer Jim Goddard, guides horse owners on transitioning IH principles from groundwork to ridden exercises. Goddard emphasises a thoughtful and intentional approach to horse training, highlighting the importance of pressure and release, and encourages riders to think like educators, breaking down exercises into smaller parts. The guide focuses on building the horse’s understanding, balance, suppleness, and confidence through a series of specific exercises.
Dr. Michael Hewetson Professor Of Equine Internal Medicine Dr. Michael Hewetson graduated from Onderstepoort, South Africa, in 1999. After practicing in the UK, he specialized in equine internal medicine at […]
The Ultimate Guide To Feeding For Muscle, Speed & Stamina with IH Trainer Sandra Williams, Enlightened Equitation Teacher Kay Brown & IH Trainer Leanne Roger Want to get the best […]
This video demonstrates a technique for loading a horse onto a trailer when working alone, assuming the horse is already comfortable and experienced with the loading process. It addresses how to safely manage the ramps and breach bar without assistance.
This film explores the bond between horse and human through the journey of Kelly Marks to Namibia to work with the wild desert horses. Her aim was to understand the differences between wild and domesticated horses and to test her horsemanship skills with truly untouched animals.
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For those of you who don’t already know… we welcomed Hugo (aka The One Pound Pony) to our family in August 2024. He’s a lovely 15.3hh Connemara x Thoroughbred who came to us with some physical challenges that needed addressing. Despite failing a vetting and showing signs of lameness, something about him convinced us to take a chance. What started as a lease agreement turned into purchasing him for just £1 – hence his nickname, The One Pound Pony!
Keep an eye out for Hugo’s full story in my World article in the Spring-Summer 2025 magazine, where I’ll share all the details of how this special boy came into our lives. Below you’ll find videos documenting our rehabilitation journey together…
Our First Steps with Hugo
When Hugo first joined the IH family, we knew we needed a systematic approach to understand and address his challenges. For those of you who have completed the Online Horse Psychology Course, you’ll recognize this systematic problem-solving approach from Week 6! Here’s what we did in those crucial first weeks:
Our in-house physiotherapist Abi Pass’s full assessment revealed Hugo was typically standing in a ‘downhill’ position, offloading his hind limbs. He showed noticeable atrophy under the saddle area and reduced shoulder extension. The most concerning observation was his extreme reaction to the saddle – he would retreat to the back of his stable when it approached. There were significant muscle spasms around the saddle region and tension in his gluteal muscles, particularly on the right side.
When Hugo arrived, his reactions to tack told us immediately we needed to address these issues. Here’s how we approached both:
Saddle Challenges:
The moment we approached Hugo with a saddle, his distress was clear – he would retreat to the back of his stable and his back muscles would actually spasm as the saddle came near. Instead of rushing to a full saddle fitting, we made a strategic decision. Daisy had a saddle of the appropriate size that could be adjusted with shims in the saddle cloth.
After consulting with our saddle fitter, we agreed it would be counterproductive to do a full fitting before Hugo was in better physical condition and ready for proper schooling. Through video consultations and careful adjustments, we found a comfortable temporary solution. We knew we’d succeeded when the spasms disappeared completely and Hugo stopped showing anxiety around saddling.
Key tip: Remember that saddle comfort is a two-way street – it needs to work for both horse AND rider. Our chosen saddle allows the riders to feel secure and comfortable too, which is crucial for building confidence together.
IH Trainer, Julia Fisher, lectures on Saddle Assessment on the Five Day Foundation course and has a wealth of knowledge…
I got Hugo’s feet X-rayed within the first week because if the feet aren’t right, nothing is going to be right. The results were thankfully fine – a great foundation to build on.
Here’s a tip: Check with your local veterinary practices about hoof X-ray costs. It’s often more affordable than you might expect and is absolutely money well spent for peace of mind.
Getting a baseline blood test was essential. The results showed elevated Eosinophils (marked as E or Eo) at 7% – normal is less than 3%. This matched his symptoms of coughing and thick nasal discharge. This finding actually catalyzed a big change in our yard management, leading us to create a more dust-free environment. Sometimes one horse’s needs can improve life for everyone in the yard!
Hugo’s worm count showed medium-level strongyles, but what really surprised us were the bot eggs on his legs and shoulders. I hadn’t seen bot eggs since my Pony Club days! It was particularly curious as he’d only been living a mile down the road, yet we’d never had bots here. After appropriate treatment, we’ve implemented a regular worm count schedule. It will be interesting to see if the bot eggs return next year.
Bridle & Bitting Issues:
Hugo’s bridle issues were complex. He would raise his head as high as possible when approached with a bridle (quite a challenge for my shorter family members!), and once bitted, he developed an unnatural sneer, particularly pronounced on the left side.
Intriguingly, we discovered a marble-sized growth on the right side of his mouth, just above where the bit sits. (Update: this has gradually disappeared completely – quite curious!)
We took a systematic approach to solving these issues:
We’re still monitoring his response as we gradually return to schooling work, but the improvement in his general comfort and acceptance of the bridle has been remarkable.
Key Learning: Sometimes the solution isn’t just about finding the right equipment – it’s about giving the horse time to trust that the equipment won’t cause discomfort.”
Kelly talks bridles with Dr James Cooling independent bitting and bridle fitting expert founding member of the Association of Professional Bit and Bridle Fitters (APBBF)…
Our equine dental vet, Dr Chris Pearce, found several issues needing attention:
Unusual staining patterns suggesting uneven feeding habits Getting the mouth comfortable was crucial for Hugo’s overall wellbeing and future training. The uneven wear patterns particularly explained some of his bitting issues and unusual hay-chewing patterns we’d noticed.”
Getting the mouth comfortable was crucial for Hugo’s overall wellbeing and future training. The uneven wear patterns particularly explained some of his bitting issues and unusual hay-chewing patterns we’d noticed.
Common Misconceptions with Equine Dentistry
European Veterinary Equine Dental Specialist unpacks some common misconceptions around the Equine Dental industry….
Veterinary Assessment & Diagnosis
After noticing subtle irregularities in Hugo’s movement—such as a slight hip hike and discomfort when transitioning to canter—it was clear a full veterinary workup was needed. We had already planned a thorough lameness evaluation with Dr. Jessica Kidd, a renowned equine orthopaedic surgeon with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating complex cases. Her expertise was crucial at this stage to pinpoint the issue.
One of the key signs that raised concern was Hugo’s inability to back up or shift his weight backwards—a serious red flag that didn’t improve with training. This suggested a physical issue, not just a behavioural one, highlighting the need for a professional diagnosis.
Hugo was diagnosed with Proximal Suspensory Desmitis (PSD), a serious ligament injury affecting both hind limbs. If left untreated, this could lead to chronic lameness and limit Hugo’s ability to perform athletically in the future.
Understanding and Treating Proximal Hindlimb Suspensory Desmitis (PSD)
Veterinary expert Dr. Jessica Kidd, who we were fortunate to have overseeing Hugo’s case, takes a deep dive into proximal suspensory desmitis (PSD) in this informative video. She breaks down why hindlimb PSD is more challenging to treat than forelimb cases, highlighting the anatomical constraints that make conservative treatment less effective. Dr Kidd discusses surgical options like plantar neurectomy and fasciotomy, explaining how they help relieve pain and pressure on the suspensory ligament. She also covers non-surgical approaches, post-operative care, and key factors that affect a horse’s recovery. Additionally, she emphasises the importance of varied activities to reduce injury risk and offers insights into the best time to start a horse’s training.
Following his surgery for Proximal Suspensory Desmitis (PSD), Hugo’s recovery was carefully structured to allow his ligaments to heal while gradually reintroducing movement.
For the first two weeks post-surgery, Hugo remained on strict box rest to allow initial healing. His daily routine included:
At week 3, Hugo was introduced to small-pen turnout—a stable-sized enclosed area—allowing him some natural movement while keeping his activity restricted. This was essential in preventing stiffness without risking sudden movements.
At the same time, hand-walking was introduced, starting at 10 minutes twice daily and increasing by 5 minutes per week..
Led in a Dually halter with sidereins, ensuring balance without discomfort.
Walking routes were varied to prevent him anticipating grass time and pulling towards it.
As Hugo built more stability, we transitioned to long-lining to encourage engagement and self-carriage:
During this period, turnout was expanded to a tennis court-sized pen, allowing greater but controlled movement while preventing sudden exertion.
At this stage, Hugo was ready to increase engagement and mobility with raised pole work:
During this time, water treadmill therapy was introduced as an additional tool for controlled rehabilitation:
Hugo’s turnout was increased in carefully controlled stages:
By three months post-surgery, Hugo was ready for ridden walking:
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The Dually Interpreted: Not So Intelligent Science by Dr Veronica Fowler A STUDY CLAIMED THAT THE DUALLY® HEADCOLLAR COULD ‘NEGATIVELY IMPACT WELFARE’ – BUT IS THIS JUST BAD SCIENCE?’ Our […]
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Note – Members you can find this article in the Autumn 2015 magazine in the magazine library of the members area.