Obesity remains one of the biggest threats to equine welfare — but vets and charities say real progress is now visible in many yards, clinics and competition arenas. Stephanie Bateman finds out what is changing, what still isn’t, and why this is no time to take the pressure off the fight against fat horses

Not just small horses, ponies benefit from particular care and attention in certain areas. Merry Smith MRCVS explains what to watch out for

BUYER’S GUIDE

Portion control Q I have a laminitis-prone pony ...

Horse welfare is as critical as ever as we enjoy Christmas jollity. Howard Newitt MRCVS explains how racehorses are cared for during the festive racing period

Mental health can shape not just a rider’s performance, but their horse’s wellbeing. Oscar Williams discovers how to recognise the signs – and why it’s sometimes braver not to ride