Got a great idea for a feature?

[Soraya_H&R_AssistEd]

Thanks Archie, mja and hessy. Those are all great ideas and have been passed on to our Editor Nicky.

[horse_girl]

How about a feature on different types of horses for different people - ie, the horse to get if you want to do eventing, or if you just want to hack, best breeds for jumping that kind of thing...

[Soraya_H&R_AssistEd]

How about a feature on different types of horses for different people - ie, the horse to get if you want to do eventing, or if you just want to hack, best breeds for jumping that kind of thing...

Thanks horse_girl. That would make an interesting feature. I will pass it on to our Editor, Nicky.

[Expert_LizPitman]

How about a feature on different types of horses for different people - ie, the horse to get if you want to do eventing, or if you just want to hack, best breeds for jumping that kind of thing...

I think that's a really good idea. I meet a lot of people who buy completely the wrong sort of horse for what they want, especially those who fall for that glossy warmblood and completely over horse, or who buy nervous rescues when they want a steady hack.

Along the same lines, have you done a feature on what age to do what? I'm also seeing a lot of horses who are pushed to far to fast and too soon. I think this might also be linked in with the seemingly growing number of fairly inexperienced people who are buying youngsters (because they're cheaper?) who then get frustrated at having a 2 year old garden ornament.

If you haven't already, would you consider doing a feature on stomach ulcers, possibly as part of a series of hidden ailments? It's again sadly common that horses have physical issues that result in some significant behavioural problems, but because they pass the usual back/tack/teeth check they're deemed as fit and, to quote one vet, just being a dipstick. Stomach ulcers in particular are horribly common, extremely painful yet easily diagnosed and treated. I have some good case studies, both of ulcers and other hidden issues. Just ask...

[Soraya_H&R_AssistEd]

Hi Liz,

Thanks for your suggestions, both of those are great ideas! And thank you for your offer of case studies. I will pass all the information on to our Editor, Nicky. My friend's horse suffered from stomach ulcers. It was amazing how quickly she improved with treatment. I personally would love to learn more about it.

x

[Archie]

Along the same lines, have you done a feature on what age to do what? I'm also seeing a lot of horses who are pushed to far to fast and too soon. I think this might also be linked in with the seemingly growing number of fairly inexperienced people who are buying youngsters (because they're cheaper?) who then get frustrated at having a 2 year old garden ornament.

100% agree this would be a good feature, not only for people who buy youngsters but those who say 'why haven't you done so and so yet?' I probably get asked why haven't I backed my 3 year old yet at least once a month, when I reply I'm in no rush I'm working at his pace I get quizzed like I'm completely mad. I give up explaining! I agree it's a big problem pushing young horses too soon.

And for those who think youngsters are cheaper??.. think again!!

[Soraya_H&R_AssistEd]

Sounds like the age feature would be popular! Thanks Archie, I'll pass your comments over to Nicky!

[hessy]

talking of hidden ailments

lipoma - relates to fat horses so could be a good one! my pony died from this (we believe) so would be interested to find out more...

[Irishcobfan]

I'd like to see something for us riders who maybe have got into a bit of a rut! Shoot me down in flames but I havent had a lesson in about 4 years and I would really love to go competing with my cob but I'm not sure if my boy and me have got it in us even though we have a great partnership. We just end up hacking and a bit of schooling but there's a bit of a stigma attached to riders with cobs and I'm worried we won't measure up! We don't have a posh school, just a bit of field and it seems it's always someone with a lovely arena and a well known rider! Knowing how others manage would be a massive help!

[Soraya_H&R_AssistEd]

Hi Hessy, Thanks for the suggestion of hidden ailments. Lipomas are a great idea. I will pass your post on to Nicky!

And IrishcobFan, it's interesting you should suggest 'getting out of a rut' because it has been something we have been discussing in the office, too! It's a great idea! I will pass your comments over to Nicky.

Everyone has such brilliant suggestions. Please keep them coming!

Soraya