Basic Instinct Equine

04/07/2023

16/05/2023

05/05/2023

A selection of images of Sable Island Wild Horses by Bev Pettit

30/04/2023

30/04/2023

Are you ready to hear a story that will make your heart race with fear and excitement? Meet Trey, the world’s second cloned Przewalski horse who is getting ready to join the herd at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. This endangered species was born in February from DNA that was cryo-preserved in 1980...

30/04/2023

Andrea Parry-Jones explains why we will only secure the future of our native equine breeds when we fully appreciate everything they can do.

29/04/2023

29/04/2023

Only a horse owner or keeper can spot one of these babies from 2 meters, but need glasses to read a book.
We have information on poisonous plants on our website. https://www.communitiesforhorses.org/fact-sheets

29/04/2023

Wild Bosnian foal taken last year in Livno, Bosnia 🐴⛰️. The wild horses there descend from those that were turned loose when tractors arrived in the region (between 1950-1970’s). Like with many rare breeds, the local horses could not compete with machines and they lost their value as they were not as productive in terms of time and cost. Thankfully, the farmers in Livno decided to turn the horses loose on the mountain instead of selling or killing them. The horses roamed and bred freely for a number of decades. The Bosnian War severely reduced their numbers (down to around 50) but the population naturally increased afterwards. The horses were given protection in 2010 and have since flourished. They live completely wild, with no human aid or interference. The are a key part of the natural ecosystem and fit into the food chain. Bears and wolves predate upon them, as they would have on their wild ancestors. It’s been incredible to observe the natural behaviour of these horses.

Our wonderful guide Silvija () was fantastic, she showed us the whole area - from mountains to the history of the town. She was very generous and had such amazing knowledge! We encountered such lovely and wonderful people at every turn and they made the trip even more special 🥰🐴
_______________________________

29/04/2023

🌼Dandelions🌼
The humble dandelion, (taraxacum officinale) is one of the most commonly found weeds in Britain. They are hugely beneficial for horses (and humans too for that matter) but not many people realise it.

Dandelions are rich in potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron and copper. They also contain more vitamin A and C than most vegetables and fruit, and also Vitamins B and D. They are also great for offering the liver and kidneys support and are also anti-rheumatic, so have a joint supportive action too. Dandelion leaves are diuretic so could be referred to as a ‘natural electrolyte’ and can be used to relieve fluid retention and cleanse the digestive system. Their high copper content helps to activate zinc, which is essential for wound healing and white blood cell production, as well as fertility.

It is also thought that the white sap found in the stem of a dandelion can be applied topically to warts in horses and humans for treatment.

Horses will often eat dandelions while grazing, and sometimes may also dig up the roots to eat too! It is also available as a herbal supplement to support the action of the liver and kidneys and can be found in herbal mixes for joint support.