The Equestrian Blog

Be warned – Horsetail, Mares Tail or Scouring Rush

Just a quick question... As horse owners we're mostly all familiar with the battle against ragwort and how it has spread into every field, central reservation and grass verge in the country, but how many of us know anything about mares tail?

Horse or Mares Tail, (scientific name Equisetum Palustre), is toxic to horses and should in my opinion be equestrian enemy number one. It looks like it belongs in Jurassic Park and spreads like wildfire. From a few small patches last year my paddock is now covered in it and it looks as if it's spreading fast and here to stay.

I've been researching this plant and what I've discovered doesn't make for pleasant reading.. more at Mares Tail - Toxic To Horses

Michael Whitaker suspended in horse doping case

Posted by admin | Filed under Equestrian News

michael whitaker jumping The International Equestrian Federation (FEI) has confirmed British rider Michael Whitaker has been provisionally suspended after his mount Thackeray tested positive in a competition last May at La Baule, France.

The FEI said Thackeray would remain grounded until the B sample has been analysed.

Michael Whitaker believes the synthetic hormone altrenogest was administered to the horse with its feed. The substance is found in Regu-Mate and is used as an anti-irritant in hot conditions.

Younger brother of British showjumping champion John Whitaker, Michael could now miss the European Championships which take place at Windsor at the end of August.

Regu-Mate promotional material lists its benefits and uses as ...

Regu-Mate the proven performer for performance mares - When you’re campaigning a mare, every advantage counts. That’s why more and more trainers are turning to Regu-Mate to suppress estrus and make their mares’ performances more predictable.

Regu-Mate effectively suppresses estrus in 95 percent of mares after 3 days of treatment.

When treatment is discontinued, mares exhibiting regular estrous cycles return to estrus within 4 to 5 days following treatment and continue to cycle normally.

Regu-Mate can help alleviate moodiness and temperament changes associated with estrus.

It’s easy to administer – orally or top-dressed on grain.