What happens when a “friendly” off-lead dog causes devastating consequences?

In this powerful and emotional episode of the Just Horse Riders Podcast, Aaron Englander sits down with Victoria (Endurance with Darcy) and Katie, founders of the Leash & Release campaign, to discuss dog attacks on horses, rider safety, and why education — not blame — is the real solution.

From heartbreaking personal stories to practical safety advice, this episode dives deep into:

• The real impact of off-lead dog incidents
• Why 96% of reported horse attacks involve off-lead dogs
• The legal grey areas in UK legislation
• What the Dangerous Dogs Act does (and doesn’t) protect
• How riders and dog owners can prevent incidents
• Why “Leash in the presence, release when safe” could save lives
• Practical hacking safety tips (high-vis, cameras, insurance, QR tags)
• The psychology of horses, dogs, and human reactions

This isn’t about banning dogs.
It’s about shared responsibility, mutual respect, and safer countryside access for everyone.

Whether you’re a rider, dog owner, parent, or countryside user — this conversation matters.

Watch now to understand the movement that’s gaining national attention.

Listen on Spotify if you’re on the go.

🔹 Learn more about Leash & Release
https://www.leashandrelease.co.uk/

🔹 Follow & support Just Horse Riders
Website – https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/justhorseriders
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/justhorseriders
TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@justhorseridersofficial
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@JustHorseRidersOffical
Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQNIG40hRgs8hXbKi

#equestrian
#horsesafety
#dogattacksonhorses
#countrysidecode
#hackinghorses
#horseriding
#dogowners
#britishhorse
#equestrianlife

#justhorseriders
#equestrianpodcast
#justhorseriderspodcast

Episode 32 – Hoof Health & Shoeing Myths

In Episode 32 of the Just Horse Riders Podcast, host Aaron Englander from Just Horse Riders sits down with Tom Dyson (registered farrier) and Grace Mowatt (apprentice farrier) for an honest, in-depth conversation about hoof care, shoeing myths, and what horse owners really need to know.

This episode pulls back the curtain on farriery — from everyday hoof management to advanced shoeing decisions — answering the questions horse owners ask all the time but don’t always get clear answers to.

🐎 In this episode, we cover:

• The three real reasons horses are shod: protection, correction, and grip
• Why bad-smelling hooves usually mean thrush (and when it becomes serious)
• Common hoof care mistakes owners make between farrier visits
• The truth about cracked hooves, weak feet, and genetics vs environment
• How often horses should see the farrier — and why timing matters
• Barefoot vs shod: when each approach is appropriate
• What farriers mean when they say a hoof needs “balance”
• Do hoof supplements and oils actually work, or is it just marketing?
• Early laminitis warning signs and when to call the vet immediately
• Why shoe loss happens — and when it’s a management issue, not a farrier issue
• The physical reality of farriery and why it’s a skilled, regulated profession

This episode is packed with real-world experience, practical advice, and myth-busting insights for horse owners at every level — whether you’re new to ownership or managing horses daily.

🎧 Listen now to gain a better understanding of your horse’s feet — and how good hoof care supports long-term soundness and welfare.

🔗 Links
Website: https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justhorseriders
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justhorseriders
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justhorseridersofficial
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JustHorseRidersOffical
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQNIG40hRgs8hXbKi

Hashtags:
#justhorseriders #equestrianpodcast #justhorseriderspodcast #horsecare #farrierlife #hoofcare #horsehealth #horseowners #equestrianlife #horsemanship

Episode 31 – Saddle Fitting, Classical Riding & Putting Horse Welfare First with Claire Whitfield from Saddles Direct

In this episode, host Aaron Englander (Just Horse Riders) sits down with Claire Whitfield (Saddles Direct) – classical riding instructor, IASF saddle fitter and BHS Accredited Professional Coach – to dive deep into what really makes a saddle “fit” for both horse and rider. From classical weight aids and rider balance to tree design, reflocking and why “one saddle fits all” is usually a terrible idea, this conversation is packed with practical, horse-first advice.

Claire explains how her classical dressage background and training with Sylvia Loch shaped her philosophy: rider position, balance and subtle weight aids aren’t “nice extras” – they’re the foundation for harmony and soundness. We talk about why thicker saddle pads don’t fix poor saddle fit, how to spot red-flag behaviours (like “naughtiness” that’s really pain), when to reflock, why six-monthly saddle checks matter, and how rider height, weight and anatomy all influence what a “correct” saddle looks like in the real world.

We also cover common myths (custom = always better, or that expensive = good fit), how often horses really change shape, what to do if you’ve bought the wrong horse/saddle combination, and why storage, age and damage (broken trees, lumpy flocking, dodgy racks) can quietly ruin even the best saddle. If you’ve ever wondered “Is my saddle hurting my horse?” or “Can I safely use one saddle on multiple horses?”, this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen, follow & connect with Just Horse Riders:

• Website – https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/
• Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/justhorseriders
• Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/justhorseriders
• TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@justhorseridersofficial
• YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@JustHorseRidersOffical
• Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQNIG40hRgs8hXbKi
• Saddles Direct – https://saddlesdirect.co.uk

#justhorseriders #equestrianpodcast #justhorseriderspodcast #saddlefitting #saddlefit #classicaldressage #riderbiomechanics #horsewelfare #horsepodcast #equestrian

🎙️ Episode 30 of the Just Horse Riders Podcast — hosted by Aaron Englander from Just Horse Riders — welcomes Nika Vorster, an international equine chiropractor, former GB dressage rider, and ex-flat jockey, on a mission to help a million horses by helping riders heal themselves.

In this inspiring episode, Nika shares her journey from pony-club beginnings in South Africa to competing for Great Britain at Prix St Georges level, and how her work in chiropractic and biomechanics is changing the way we understand horse-and-rider wellness.

We dive deep into:
🐴 How mindset, nutrition, and movement affect your horse’s performance
💪 Why riding alone isn’t enough to stay fit — and how to train smarter
🌿 The truth about seed oils, cortisol, and rider inflammation
🧘‍♀️ The link between female hormones, the menstrual cycle & equestrian performance
❤️ Building connection, confidence, and communication with your horse from the ground up
✨ How to read subtle pain signs, work holistically with your vet & team, and create calmer, happier horses

Whether you’re a competitive rider or love hacking on weekends, this episode will help you see that healing your horse starts with healing yourself.

👇 Listen / Watch Now
🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQNIG40hRgs8hXbKi
▶️ YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@JustHorseRidersOffical

🌐 Find Just Horse Riders Online:
Website – https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/justhorseriders
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/justhorseriders
TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@justhorseridersofficial

#justhorseriders #equestrianpodcast #justhorseriderspodcast #equestrianlife #horselovers #horsemanship #femaleequestrians #animalchiropractic #dressagerider #riderfitness #equestrianwellness #horsehealth #riderhealth #nikavorster #podcastinterview

Join Aaron Englander from Just Horse Riders as he sits down with Sarah Arthur, CEO of HAPPA (Horses and Ponies Protection Association), in this powerful episode of the Just Horse Riders Podcast. 🐴✨Discover the incredible work HAPPA does to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome horses, ponies, and donkeys across the UK. From heartbreaking stories of neglect and abandonment to heartwarming tales of second chances, Sarah shares the charity’s mission, challenges, and inspiring success stories.Learn about:✅ HAPPA’s life-changing rescue cases, including foals saved against all odds.✅ The cost of running a world-class equine welfare charity (£22,000 per week!).✅ Their rehoming and foster schemes giving every horse a true second chance.✅ How YOU can get involved – from sponsoring a horse to visiting their award-winning site in Lancashire.If you care about equine welfare, animal rescue, and giving horses the future they deserve, this episode is a must-watch!👉 Subscribe for more inspiring equestrian stories and insights.🌐 Follow Just Horse RidersWebsite: https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justhorseridersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/justhorseridersTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justhorseridersofficialYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JustHorseRidersOfficalSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQNIG40hRgs8hXbKi🎙️ About HAPPAWebsite: https://www.happa.org.ukTel: 01282 455992Email: [email protected]#justhorseriders #equestrianpodcast #justhorseriderspodcast #horses #equestrian #animalrescue #equinewelfare #happa

This episode features the incredibly talented Gill Pollard – one of the UK’s top equestrian professionals and a Level 5 (Advanced) British Showjumping Course Designer.Gill shares her fascinating journey from Pony Club competitor to designing show jumping courses at the highest level, along with her experience as an accomplished dressage rider. With championship wins at Prix St. Georges and Advanced Medium, Gill offers a rare insight into the competitive equestrian world – from the technical details of course building to the life lessons she’s learned ringside.Expect stories of speed classes, course design challenges, funny competition moments (yes, sheep and wheelbarrows are involved!), and advice for riders of all levels. Whether you’re a show jumping competitor, dressage enthusiast, or just love a good behind-the-scenes equestrian story, this episode is packed with value and entertainment.📌 Listen for:The reality of designing fair yet challenging coursesHow to prepare horses for different types of fences and fillersThe difference between novice and championship-level competitionMemorable moments in Gill’s career – from county shows to championship arenasTips for riders to improve confidence and performance in the ring🌐 Follow Just Horse RidersWebsite – https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/justhorseridersInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/justhorseridersTikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@justhorseridersofficialYouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@JustHorseRidersOfficalSpotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQNIG40hRgs8hXbKi#justhorseriders #equestrianpodcast #justhorseriderspodcast #showjumping #dressage #coursebuilding #equestrianlife #horseriders #horsepodcast #britishshowjumping #ponyclub #ridingtips #equestrianstories

Join host Aaron Englander of Just Horse Riders as he sits down with world‑renowned “Horse Barber” Melody Hames for an honest, funny and deeply insightful chat about the art and science of horse clipping. From the welfare‑first philosophy that guides Melody’s work to the business lessons she’s learned travelling the world with her clippers, this episode explores:Why traditional and creative clipping improve comfort, skin health and athletic performance.The step‑by‑step checkpoints Melody uses to keep horses calm and safe.Blade tension, oiling every nine minutes, and other pro tips that extend equipment life.Building a clipping business, teaching online courses, and handling brand “poachers.”Mental health, burnout, and the life lessons Melody’s late partner horse Romeo continues to teach her. Whether you’re a DIY groomer, a budding equine professional, or just horse‑obsessed, Episode 27 delivers practical take‑aways and heart‑warming stories in equal measure.The Horse Barber - https://thehorsebarber.com/Listen & FollowWebsite: https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/Facebook:   / justhorseriders  Instagram:   / justhorseriders  TikTok:   / justhorseridersofficial  YouTube:    / @justhorseridersoffical  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQ...#justhorseriders #equestrianpodcast #justhorseriderspodcast #horseclipping #horsegrooming #equestrianlife #horsecare #creativeclipping #horsebarber

In Episode 26 of the Just Horse Riders Podcast, Aaron Englander is joined by Linda Cowperthwaite, a seasoned Team GB endurance rider with 40 years of riding under her belt. 🐎In this inspiring episode, Linda opens up about:How she got started in endurance ridingTraining horses for 100-mile competitionsHeart rate recovery tipsBuilding trust with your horseCompeting internationally, including riding in Qatar and meeting King Charles!Her top tips for crew support, feeding routines, and mental resilience 💪Whether you're an experienced competitor or just endurance-curious, this chat is filled with humour, wisdom, and real rider insight. 🎙️👉 Watch now and take your endurance knowledge to the next level!🔗 Connect with us:Website - https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/Facebook -   / justhorseriders  Instagram -   / justhorseriders  Tiktok -   / justhorseridersofficial  YouTube -    / @justhorseridersoffical  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQ...🎧 #justhorseriders #equestrianpodcast #justhorseriderspodcast #enduranceriding #teamGB #horsetraining #equestrianlife

In episode 25 of the Just Horse Riders Podcast, host Aaron Englander is joined by Louise Scott, Senior Nutritionist and Product Development Manager from D&H (Dodson & Horrell). Louise shares her extensive expertise on equine nutrition, debunking popular horse feeding myths, explaining the science behind feed formulation, and providing essential tips on feeding horses effectively. They discuss topics such as summer feeding adjustments, managing horse weight and energy levels, and the importance of understanding ingredients and quality assurance in horse feeds and supplements. Louise also highlights D&H's exciting new products and campaigns aimed at supporting horse health.Discover practical nutrition advice to ensure your horse stays healthy and happy! WATCH NOW to gain valuable insights directly from an equine nutrition expert.Follow Just Horse Riders:Website - https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/justhorseridersInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/justhorseridersTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@justhorseridersofficialYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@JustHorseRidersOfficalSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQNIG40hRgs8hXbKi#JustHorseRiders #EquestrianPodcast #JustHorseRidersPodcast #HorseNutrition #EquineFeed #DodsonandHorrell #HorseCare

In Episode 24 of the Just Horse Riders Podcast, Aaron Englander sits down with the legendary Sue Stewart, former FEI International Eventing Judge and lifelong equestrian, to talk through decades of wisdom from the horse world.

From judging at international events like Burghley to her early days in the Pony Club, Sue shares invaluable insights into:

• The evolution of eventing and dressage

• The role of the judge and how scores are determined

• How pony welfare and rider confidence have changed over the years

• The importance of enjoying your journey, not just the results

• Why children need ponies with “woodworm and dry rot” 🐴

Whether you're a passionate parent, a competitive rider, or just pony-mad, this episode is full of real stories, laughter, and truth bombs 💣 about the horse industry.

🎧 Watch now, listen later, but don't miss it!

🔗 Follow Just Horse Riders:Website – https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/justhorseriders
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/justhorseriders
TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@justhorseridersofficial
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@JustHorseRidersOffical
Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQNIG40hRgs8hXbKi

#justhorseriders #equestrianpodcast #justhorseriderspodcast #horsecare #eventing #equestrianlife #ponyclub #horsesofinstagram #dressagetips #ridingadvice #ponylove