THOSE lucky enough to have attended the recent International Eventing Forum at Hartpury in England last month were treated to a thought provoking lecture and discussion, presented by former British event squad veterinary surgeon John Killingbeck together with Irish master farrier Andrew Mahon. Their topic for the day was ‘The Use and Effect of Studs” and the outcome will have many riders rethinking their studding practices for the season ahead.

It is surprising to learn that unlike racing and polo, there are no official guidelines or limits regarding the use, type or length of studs within eventing and show jumping. Despite the obvious safety aspects to the rider, it appears that horses are at risk from long term injuries due to poor studding practices.