Well thank GOD for February, the eventing season is so close! It’s the 'countdown' month and there’s slightly warmer weather. I've managed to get in some regular interval training with Zip and we had a fab time at a very windy Tweseldown for XC schooling. Followed by a successful day, though on a ticket, at Felbridge doing some show jumping. I finally feel like we're back to where we were at the end of the season; he's so fit and strong and ready to storm around our first BE next month. We've got one more BSJA (I know it's now just 'BS' now, but I'm old school) before our local BE event on 11th March, which I'll hopefully follow with Munstead a couple of weeks later. We're starting at BE100 level, just for a couple of runs, before we jump back up to Novice. I think this year's challenge will be holding him together now he's so much stronger in himself - it'll be down to a new bit for him and me hitting the gym. However, one of those is really going to mess with my chocolate addiction. Luckily, chocolate isn't any part of Zipper's fitness plan! He's starting this season looking fit and strong, thanks to his regular feed and TopNosh. Bring on the season!
Rain fall can trigger growth akin to a spring flush, especially if temperatures are high. Even whilst true spring may be in the past, the risk for those prone to laminitis will rise.
For the second consecutive Sunday, presenter Adam Henson has discussed the use of sainfoin during Countryfile.
''Feed the mare to feed the foal'' - wise words from many an experienced breeder. With little grass due to the dry weather, grazing can be topped up in the feed bowl.