Scholarly Equestrian

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This section is for news related to horseback riding.

  1. 3 days ago

    What Caused This Mare to Attack Her Trainer? The Colorado Horse Rescue Network Case

    What caused a mare at the Colorado Horse Rescue Network to suddenly attack her trainer—and could an undiagnosed medical condition have contributed to the horse’s dangerous behavior? According to trainer Bella Boe, the attack happened on July 21, 2026, during only her second session with the mare. Bella says she was working to establish safer handling and prepare the horse for a more thorough veterinary evaluation when the mare suddenly lunged at her, knocked her down, bit her, and struck her with her front feet. Bella suffered a dislocated shoulder, fractures in her elbow, a serious scalp wound, significant bite injuries, and an infection. She has also described the emotional trauma caused by the attack and expects to undergo surgery followed by months of rehabilitation. In this video, we discuss what happened in the Colorado Horse Rescue Network case and why extreme or sudden aggression should sometimes prompt a veterinary investigation before a horse is labeled dangerous or untrainable. We also share our experience with Missy, an Arabian school horse whose behavior changed dramatically after she developed a granulosa cell tumor. These ovarian tumors can produce hormones such as testosterone and may cause some mares to display aggression or stallion-like behavior. After Missy’s affected ovary and tumor were surgically removed, her normal personality quickly began to return. We are not diagnosing the mare involved in the Colorado case. There is currently no reliable public evidence confirming that she has a granulosa cell tumor or another specific medical condition. Pain, fear, neurological disease, reproductive disorders, hormones, learned behavior, and inadequate training can all potentially influence dangerous behavior. Only a veterinary examination can determine whether a medical problem is involved. This case raises several important questions: Could an undiagnosed medical condition contribute to extreme aggression in a mare? How thoroughly should a horse be medically evaluated before behavioral euthanasia is considered? When does a horse become too dangerous to handle? How much can proper groundwork and early education protect horses and their handlers during an emergency? Let us know what you think in the comments. Should veterinary testing always come before making a final decision about a horse displaying severe aggression? Please remember that we are not veterinarians. This video discusses our personal experiences and publicly available information for educational purposes. Always consult a qualified veterinarian about sudden behavioral or physical changes in a horse. SOURCES: 1. Bella Boe, “Support Bella’s Recovery After Horse Attack” https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-bellas-recovery-after-horse-attack 2. American College of Veterinary Surgeons, “Granulosa Cell Tumors of the Equine Ovary” https://www.acvs.org/large-animal/granulosa-cell-tumors-of-the-equine-ovary/ 3. Vetster, “Granulosa Cell Tumor in Horses” https://vetster.com/en/conditions/horse/granulosa-cell-tumors 4. https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1Egq6C5wxe/ #HorseAttack #ColoradoHorseRescueNetwork #HorseBehavior #EquineHealth #HorseTraining #GranulosaCellTumor #HorseWelfare #EquestrianSafety This video is for educational purposes and constitutes Fair Use under Section 107 of the US Copyright Act of 1976. Allowance is made for “Fair Use” for purposes of education, research, criticism, comment, and news reporting. This video is fully transformative and created in accordance with YouTube’s Content Reuse Policy under the Content Reuse Act. It includes original narration, commentary, educational context, visual edits, and added value through storytelling and analysis. No content is simply re-uploaded. #horse #horses #horsecare #horsenews #equestrian

  2. 9 Sept

    Who Really Owned This Horse Ranch? The Shocking Cartel Connection!

    An ordinary horse property in Riverside County has been linked to a major criminal investigation. Here is what we know about the connection. At first glance, the five-acre facility appeared to be a standard setup with fences, outbuildings, and horses. However, recent reports have connected this specific horse property to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, known as the CJNG, which the U.S. Department of State has designated as a terrorist organization. This situation highlights the intersection between rural land use and international criminal activity. We examine the details of this Riverside County case to understand how such a site became involved in high-level organized crime. Keeping up with current equestrian news often requires looking beyond the sport itself to see how land and facilities are being utilized. Subscribe to Scholarly Equestrian for evidence-based analysis and updates on issues affecting our sport. What are your thoughts on this situation? We respond to all comments. 0:00 The Hidden Cartel Connection in Hemet 1:51 Tracing the Purchase of the Hemet Ranch 4:11 The Man Behind the Multi-Million Dollar Reward 7:33 The Legal Battle for Asset Forfeiture 9:11 The Unintended Consequences for Local Trainers #horse #horses #horsecare #horsenews #equestrian

  3. 4 Sept

    FEI Debates Major Blood Rule Change Across Horse Sports!

    Should every equestrian discipline follow the same blood rules? The FEI is considering whether blood rules should be standardized across dressage, show jumping, eventing, and other international horse sports—but creating one consistent policy may be far more complicated than it sounds. Currently, the consequences of discovering blood on a competition horse can vary depending on the discipline, where the blood appears, and what officials believe caused it. In some cases, a horse-and-rider combination may be eliminated. In others, the horse may be allowed to continue competing. In this video, we discuss: • Why equestrian sports have different blood rules • Whether those policies should be standardized • The difference between accidental and athlete-induced blood • How officials determine whether a horse is fit to continue • Why inconsistent enforcement concerns riders and horse-welfare advocates • Whether one universal rule could provide greater fairness and accountability Supporters of standardized rules believe every horse deserves the same protection, regardless of discipline. Others argue that dressage, show jumping, eventing, driving, and endurance involve different risks that cannot always be governed by one policy. Could a universal blood rule improve horse welfare and make enforcement easier to understand—or would it ignore important differences between equestrian disciplines? Watch the full video, then share your opinion in the comments: Should the discovery of blood always result in elimination? This video is intended for educational and commentary purposes. We are not veterinarians, and veterinary concerns should always be discussed with a qualified equine veterinarian. #HorseWelfare #EquestrianSport #FEI This video is for educational purposes and constitutes Fair Use under Section 107 of the US Copyright Act of 1976. Allowance is made for “Fair Use” for purposes of education, research, criticism, comment, and news reporting. This video is fully transformative and created in accordance with YouTube’s Content Reuse Policy under the Content Reuse Act. It includes original narration, commentary, educational context, visual edits, and added value through storytelling and analysis. No content is simply re-uploaded. #horse #horses #horsecare #horsenews #equestrian

  4. 3 Sept

    Can Cola Treat an Impaction in Horses? Surprising New Research

    Can cola help treat a gastric impaction in horses? Researchers examining 125 equine gastric-impaction cases found that approximately 83% of horses treated with cola survived and were discharged from the hospital, compared with about 36% of horses that did not receive cola. But this research does not mean horse owners should give soda to a horse experiencing colic. The study involved a specific condition called gastric impaction, in which feed becomes trapped inside the horse’s stomach. Impaction colic itself is common and frequently involves the large colon, while gastric impaction is less common and can be extremely difficult to treat. In these cases, veterinarians administered approximately 1.5 to two liters of cola through a properly placed nasogastric tube as part of closely monitored hospital care. Researchers believe cola’s acidity, carbonation or other chemical properties might help soften compacted plant material. However, because this was a retrospective study, it found an association with improved survival—not definitive proof that cola caused the better outcomes. Friesian horses were overrepresented in the study and experienced poorer outcomes than other breeds, suggesting they may have a particular predisposition to gastric impaction. This video explains: What a gastric impaction is How it differs from a common large-colon impaction Why veterinarians might use cola What the study found about equine survival Why Friesian horses may face greater risk The limitations of this research Why cola should never be used as a home treatment for colic If your horse shows signs of colic—including pawing, rolling, refusing food, repeatedly lying down or looking toward the abdomen—contact your veterinarian immediately. Do not give cola, mineral oil, water or medication unless your veterinarian specifically instructs you to do so. What do you think about this unusual treatment? Were you surprised to learn that veterinarians have administered cola to horses with gastric impactions? Share your thoughts in the comments. We respond to all comments. Subscribe to Scholarly Equestrian for research-based discussions about equine health, horse welfare and the latest veterinary studies. YouTube Chapters 00:00 Can Cola Treat Gastric Impaction in Horses? 00:26 The Study and Surprising Survival Results 04:00 Gastric Impaction vs. Common Impaction Colic 05:31 Symptoms and Diagnosis of Gastric Impaction 08:15 Why Friesian Horses May Face Greater Risk 09:45 Why Veterinarians Are Using Cola 11:10 How Cola Is Administered to Horses Sources [1] EquiManagement: Cola Might Help Treat Gastric Impactions in Horses [2] Witt P, Hagedoorn S, Kranenburg LC, and van den Boom R. The Use of Cola for the Treatment of Gastric Impactions in Equids. Pferdeheilkunde–Equine Medicine, 2021. DOI: 10.21836/PEM20210604 #HorseColic #EquineHealth #HorseCare This video is for educational purposes and constitutes Fair Use under Section 107 of the US Copyright Act of 1976. Allowance is made for “Fair Use” for purposes of education, research, criticism, comment, and news reporting. This video is fully transformative and created in accordance with YouTube’s Content Reuse Policy under the Content Reuse Act. It includes original narration, commentary, educational context, visual edits, and added value through storytelling and analysis. No content is simply re-uploaded. #horse #horses #horsecare #horsenews #equestrian

  5. 1 Sept

    FEI Issues Final Decision on Heath Ryan Horse Abuse Case—But Is the Punishment Enough?

    More than 50 recorded whip strikes. A young horse visibly resisting and reacting. Now, the FEI Tribunal has officially ruled that Australian Olympian Heath Ryan committed horse abuse—but was an 18-month suspension really enough? In this video, we examine the FEI Tribunal’s final decision involving Heath Ryan and a six-year-old horse named Nico. According to the evidence presented in the case, one video showed at least 41 strikes in approximately 31 seconds, while another showed nine additional strikes. The Tribunal concluded that Ryan’s use of the whip was excessive and violated Article 142.1 of the FEI General Regulations. It also found that his actions brought equestrian sport into disrepute and breached the FEI Code of Conduct for the Welfare of the Horse. Ryan argued that Nico had a history of dangerous behavior and was reportedly facing euthanasia. He maintained that he was attempting to retrain and ultimately save the horse. However, the Tribunal rejected the argument that this justified the excessive whipping shown in the footage. Ryan received an 18-month suspension, a fine of 3,000 Swiss francs, and an order to contribute another 3,000 Swiss francs toward the FEI’s legal costs. Because the suspension was backdated to June 12, 2025, it is scheduled to end on December 12, 2026. By the time the final ruling was issued, most of the suspension had already been served. Is that consequence proportionate to more than 50 recorded strikes? If the FEI says horse welfare must always be paramount, should this conduct have resulted in a substantially longer ban? In our opinion, this punishment falls painfully short. Calling the conduct horse abuse matters—but meaningful accountability matters too. Elite riders influence what trainers, competitors, and the next generation of equestrians believe is acceptable. Experience should bring greater responsibility, not greater permission. What do you think? Is an 18-month suspension and a 3,000-Swiss-franc fine enough, or should repeatedly and excessively whipping a horse result in a much longer ban? Please keep the discussion focused on horse welfare and respectful disagreement. We respond to all comments. Subscribe to Scholarly Equestrian for evidence-based horse care, equestrian news, welfare discussions, and honest analysis of the issues affecting our sport. This video discusses disturbing conduct involving a horse but does not show the graphic footage. This content is provided for education and commentary. Sources: [1] FEI, “FEI Tribunal Issues Final Decision in Horse Abuse Case” https://inside.fei.org/media-updates/fei-tribunal-issues-final-decision-horse-abuse-case-1 [2] FEI Tribunal, Final Decision: Heath Ryan v. FEI, August 27, 2026 https://inside.fei.org/system/files/2026.08.27_Final%20Decision%20Merits%20Heath%20Ryan%20C25-0035%20%282025_HA2%29.pdf #HorseWelfare #Dressage #EquestrianNews #horse #horses #horsecare #horsenews #equestrian

  6. 27 Aug

    Is Tall Fescue Still Toxic After a Freeze? New Research Warns Horse Owners

    Is tall fescue safe for horses after a freeze? New research suggests that toxic tall fescue may retain potentially dangerous concentrations of ergovaline even after extended periods of snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. For years, many horse owners assumed that several hard freezes made endophyte-infected tall fescue safer. However, University of Kentucky researchers detected elevated ergovaline in a pasture after more than two weeks beneath snow and ice. Their findings suggest that horse owners should not rely on the calendar, cold weather, or the appearance of dormant grass when evaluating tall fescue safety. In this video, we explain: • Why endophyte-infected tall fescue can be toxic to horses • How ergovaline and other ergot alkaloids affect the equine body • Why pregnant mares and unborn foals face the greatest risk • How tall fescue exposure can contribute to prolonged pregnancy, inadequate milk production, thickened placentas, difficult foaling, and red-bag deliveries • Why freezing temperatures may not eliminate the danger • The differences between toxic, endophyte-free, and novel-endophyte tall fescue • How pasture testing can help owners assess current risk • What to do if a pregnant mare has grazed questionable tall fescue Tall fescue toxicosis in pregnant mares can cause prolonged gestation, poor udder development, little or no milk production, difficult delivery, premature placental separation, weak foals, and stillbirth. Because a red-bag delivery can deprive the foal of oxygen, suspected exposure during late pregnancy should be discussed with a veterinarian before the mare begins showing obvious problems. Not all tall fescue is equally dangerous. Endophyte-free and carefully selected novel-endophyte varieties may offer safer alternatives, but the different types can look nearly identical. Testing for endophyte infection and measuring ergovaline concentrations are not the same thing, and a single test result should not be considered a permanent guarantee of safety. The most important takeaway is simple: traditional toxic tall fescue should not be assumed safe merely because the pasture has frozen or been covered by snow. Current pasture testing, planting records, available forage, grazing conditions, and veterinary guidance provide a more reliable basis for managing risk—especially when pregnant mares are involved. Do you have tall fescue in your horse pastures? Have you ever tested your grass for endophytes or ergovaline? Share your experience in the comments. We respond to all comments. CHAPTERS 00:00 Is Tall Fescue Safe After a Freeze? 00:38 Why Tall Fescue Can Become Toxic to Horses 03:30 Tall Fescue Toxicosis in Pregnant Mares 06:08 Why Winter Weather May Not Remove the Risk 08:40 Toxic, Endophyte-Free, and Novel-Endophyte Fescue 10:00 How to Test and Manage a Tall Fescue Pasture This video is intended for general education and is not a substitute for veterinary or professional pasture-management advice. Contact your veterinarian promptly if a pregnant mare has been exposed to suspected toxic tall fescue. SOURCES [1] University of Kentucky researchers via Equine Disease Quarterly, “When Is Tall Fescue Safe? Researchers Say the Answer Is Changing”: https://paulickreport.com/horse-care-category/when-is-tall-fescue-safe-researchers-say-the-answer-is-changing [2] University of Kentucky, “Tall Fescue Sampling Guidelines for Ergovaline Analyses”: https://forages.mgcafe.uky.edu/sites/forages.ca.uky.edu/files/tall_fescue_sampling_guidelines_for_ergovaline_analyses%20updated%20April%202024.pdf [3] American Association of Equine Practitioners, “10 Tips for Fighting Fungus-Infected Fescue”: https://aaep.org/resource/10-tips-for-fighting-fungus-infected-fescue/ [4] University of Kentucky, “Pregnant Mares Grazing a Novel Endophyte-Infected Tall Fescue”: https://scholars.uky.edu/en/publications/pregnant-mares-grazing-a-novel-endophyte-infected-tall-fescue-foa/ #TallFescue #HorseHealth #HorsePasture This video is for educational purposes and constitutes Fair Use under Section 107 of the US Copyright Act of 1976. Allowance is made for “Fair Use” for purposes of education, research, criticism, comment, and news reporting. This video is fully transformative and created in accordance with YouTube’s Content Reuse Policy under the Content Reuse Act. It includes original narration, commentary, educational context, visual edits, and added value through storytelling and analysis. No content is simply re-uploaded. #horse #horses #horsecare #horsenews #equestrian

  7. 24 Aug

    Horse Tests Positive for Rabies—How Were 13 People Exposed?

    A horse in Aiken County, South Carolina, has tested positive for rabies, and 13 people were reportedly exposed.¹ The confirmed case is an alarming reminder that rabies in horses can initially resemble colic, choke, lameness, or another neurologic emergency. In this video, we explain what happened in Aiken County, how horses contract rabies, how rabies can spread from a horse to a person, and which warning signs horse owners should recognize. We also discuss what to do after a possible rabies exposure and why the American Association of Equine Practitioners classifies rabies vaccination as a core vaccine for every horse.² Rabies in horses is uncommon, but once clinical symptoms develop, the disease is fatal. Early signs can include behavioral changes, depression, agitation, colic-like pain, difficulty swallowing, excessive salivation, muscle twitching, weakness, stumbling, incoordination, and progressive paralysis.² ⁴ According to the South Carolina Department of Public Health, the horse was found near Wire Road and Jaws Lane in Aiken. It was submitted for laboratory testing on August 18, 2026, and confirmed positive for rabies on August 19. Officials reported that 13 people were exposed and referred to their healthcare providers.¹ Being identified as exposed does not mean that all 13 people contracted rabies. Public-health professionals must evaluate whether infected saliva could have entered a bite, wound, broken skin, or mucous membrane such as the eyes, nose, or mouth.³ If you believe that you, another person, or an animal may have been exposed to rabies, contact a healthcare provider, veterinarian, and the appropriate public-health agency immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear. This video is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical or veterinary advice. CHAPTERS 00:00 Horse Tests Positive for Rabies 01:30 What Happened in Aiken County? 03:14 How Can a Horse Expose People to Rabies? 05:27 How Do Horses Contract Rabies? 07:05 Symptoms of Rabies in Horses 10:31 Can Equine Rabies Be Treated or Tested? 11:10 Rabies Vaccination and Prevention 14:35 What Horse Owners Should Do Now SOURCES ¹ South Carolina Department of Public Health. “Rabid Animals Confirmed in Multiple Counties; Thirteen People and Four Pets Exposed.” https://dph.sc.gov/news/rabid-animals-confirmed-multiple-counties-thirteen-people-and-four-pets-exposed ² American Association of Equine Practitioners. “AAEP Infectious Disease Guidelines: Rabies.” https://aaep.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Rabies_DZ_Guidelines_FINAL_2022.pdf ³ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Rabies Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Guidance.” https://www.cdc.gov/rabies/hcp/clinical-care/post-exposure-prophylaxis.html ⁴ Merck Veterinary Manual. “Rabies in Horses.” https://www.merckvetmanual.com/horse-owners/brain-spinal-cord-and-nerve-disorders-of-horses/rabies-in-horses #HorseRabies #EquineHealth #HorseNews This video is for educational purposes and constitutes Fair Use under Section 107 of the US Copyright Act of 1976. Allowance is made for “Fair Use” for purposes of education, research, criticism, comment, and news reporting. This video is fully transformative and created in accordance with YouTube’s Content Reuse Policy under the Content Reuse Act. It includes original narration, commentary, educational context, visual edits, and added value through storytelling and analysis. No content is simply re-uploaded. #horse #horses #horsecare #horsenews #equestrian

  8. 22 Aug

    How Was Mr. Spots Electrocuted at the Kentucky State Fair? Tragic Horse Show Death

    Five-year-old American Saddlebred Mr. Spots was reportedly electrocuted inside a temporary stall at the Kentucky Exposition Center shortly before the 2026 Kentucky State Fair and World’s Championship Horse Show. According to caretaker Lisa Lesch, Mr. Spots suddenly began jumping and running in circles as though something was biting him. She led him out of the stall, but the frightening behavior reportedly began again after he was returned. Lesch said Mr. Spots was fatally shocked when his metal-shod hoof stepped on a metal crossbar. A preliminary inspection reportedly indicated that a privately supplied electrical cable—not one provided by the show—had a short. However, investigators are still working to determine the precise electrical failure, and a necropsy by the University of Kentucky Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory is expected to provide additional answers. Following Mr. Spots’ death, horses in temporary stabling Tents E and F were evacuated. Electrical inspectors examined the temporary power system before the areas were cleared for use. Updated reporting also described other concerning electrical problems, including a groom who said they were shocked while connecting a cord and another stable where several fans reportedly shorted out. In this video, we examine what happened to Mr. Spots, what investigators have reported so far, how a metal horse stall can potentially become energized, and why fans, extension cords, power boxes, moisture, and metal horseshoes can create a deadly electrical hazard. We also discuss important electrical safety precautions for horse barns and temporary show stalls, including inspecting cords, using appropriately rated agricultural fans, protecting wiring from horses, avoiding overloaded circuits, and installing proper ground-fault protection. Mr. Spots was not simply an unnamed horse in an incident report. He was a five-year-old Saddlebred with people who loved him and expected to watch him compete in Kentucky. Instead, they were forced to say goodbye before he ever entered the show ring. The investigation remains ongoing, and some early details may change as inspectors complete their work and the necropsy findings become available. This video clearly distinguishes confirmed information, statements attributed to Mr. Spots’ caretaker, and preliminary investigative findings. Our deepest sympathies are with Lisa Lesch and everyone who loved, trained, groomed, and cared for Mr. Spots. His name was Mr. Spots. He was only five years old. And his life mattered. This video is intended for news reporting, education, and general barn-safety awareness. Electrical systems should be inspected and repaired by a qualified electrician. If you suspect an electrical hazard around a horse, do not touch the horse or surrounding metal until the power has been safely disconnected. #MrSpots #KentuckyStateFair #HorseSafety #HorseNews #AmericanSaddlebred #EquestrianNews #WorldsChampionshipHorseShow #BarnSafety #EquineWelfare This video is for educational purposes and constitutes Fair Use under Section 107 of the US Copyright Act of 1976. Allowance is made for “Fair Use” for purposes of education, research, criticism, comment, and news reporting. This video is fully transformative and created in accordance with YouTube’s Content Reuse Policy under the Content Reuse Act. It includes original narration, commentary, educational context, visual edits, and added value through storytelling and analysis. No content is simply re-uploaded. #horse #horses #horsecare #horsenews #equestrian

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This section is for news related to horseback riding.

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  • Creator
    thescholarlyequestrian23
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
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    Scholarly Equestrian