HELP!
Got a pony problem? Write to or email Team PONY and we’ll answer as many as we can on these pages
Stop the itch
Q My pony has sweet itch and rubs so much that he’s really sore! How can I help?
A Ouch, poor pony! The best thing to do is call your vet for some guidance. They will be able to advise on the best way to help stop your pony feeling itchy. Prevention is better than cure, so for this season they’ll probably advise some management changes to help, including a sweet-itch rug, regular washing with an anti-itch shampoo, stabling him in the morning and evenings when midges are most active, and applying a DEET-based fly spray regularly to deter the pesky biters!
TOP TIP
Always call your vet if you’re worried your pony is suffering from sweet itch so they can help as soon as possible.
Watch and learn
Q How do I improve my jump position?
A The best place to start is working with your instructor, or you could get a friend to video you so you can look back and work out what exactly needs improving. Using grids is a great way to supercharge your jump position. Set up a grid with three or four fences, but keep the poles on the ground at first. Approach in trot a few times then have a go in canter to familiarise your pony with the poles and what you’re asking him. When you feel ready, set the jumps into small cross-poles and ride through on each rein. As your pony starts to feel more confident through the grid, you can then pay more attention to your position and what you need to do to improve it.