Supporting our members in their efforts to achieve the highest level of repute, knowledge and profitability.
The BETA office is officially signing off for the festive break! We will be closed from 24th December and will return on 5th January 2026.
The members of the BETA team will be busy enjoying family dinners, catching up with friends, and giving our horses some well-deserved extra pampering (and plenty of carrots). Our dogs are also looking forward to those extra-long winter walks to burn off the Christmas treats! 🥕🐶
Wishing you, your loved ones, and your four-legged companions a wonderful festive season and a very Happy New Year. 🥂🐕
#BETA #EquestrianLife #FamilyTime #HomeForChristmas #HorseandDog #ReadyFor2026 #NewYearHolidays
Stress-Free Stabling 🎄 The holiday season often means a change in routine. Whether it`s less riding time or more time in the stable, a little planning goes a long way for your horse`s well-being! ❄️
Quick Holiday Management Checklist:
⚖️ Adjust Feed: If workload decreases, reduce concentrate (hard feed) to prevent weight gain or "fizzy" behaviour.
🧩 Beat Boredom: Use small-holed hay nets, salt licks slow feeders, or stable toys to keep them occupied during longer stabling hours.
📦 Stock Up: Ensure you have enough hay, feed, and bedding before shops close for the bank holidays.
📝 Leave a Note: If you’re away, leave clear written instructions and emergency contact info for your yard manager or horse-sitter.
Preparation is the best gift you can give your horse this year! 🎁
The "Naughty" List 🚫
It’s tempting to share your Christmas dinner leftovers, but many holiday favourites are "neigh-neighs" for horses! 🙅♂️ Keep your horse`s digestion happy by keeping these off the menu:
❌ Strictly “no”:
Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which is a prohibited substance.
Garden Scraps: Rhubarb, avocados, tomatoes, and potatoes (including peelings).
Stone Fruits: Never feed unpitted fruits.
❌ Digestive Discomfort:
The "Gas" Family: Broccoli and Brussels sprouts can cause painful gas.
Human Snacks: Avoid bread, sugary candy canes, or excess molasses—especially for horses prone to laminitis or metabolic issues.
Keep the leftovers for the compost bin, not the stable! 🍎
Festive Snacks 🥕
The holidays are for sharing, but your horse’s stocking should look a little different from yours! 🐴✨ Festive treats are a great way to include your horse in the celebrations, as long as they are a small complement to their main diet.
Safe festive favourites include:
Veggie Delights: Carrots, parsnips, and swedes are horse-approved classics.
Fruit Salad: Apples, pears, bananas, and even a few cranberries!
Winter Warmers: A small amount of warm, soaked mash (like beet pulp) with a hint of cinnamon or a drop of peppermint oil.
If you’re competing, stick to horse-specific treats approved by BETA NOPS to stay safe and compliant.
The equestrian industry is built on passion, but every successful business is powered by people. As we look toward 2026, the landscape of HR and employment law is shifting. Are you prepared?
We are thrilled to welcome Amanda Chadwick from Croner to the BETA Equestrian Business Summit 2026!
Amanda is one of the most respected voices in the field, with over 30 years of experience as a specialist speaker in HR, employment law, and employee wellbeing. Known for her engaging, no-nonsense style, she simplifies complex legislation into actionable advice for business owners.
📅 Event Details:
Event: BETA AGM & Equestrian Business Summit
Date: 23rd February 2026
Location: Hilton East Midlands Airport Hotel (DE74 2YZ)
Theme: "The Future of Equestrianism: Challenges & Opportunities"
🎟️ Secure Your Place:
Early Bird Alert! 🚨 Members who book by 31st December 2025 secure the discounted rate of just £70 + VAT. Non-members: £98 + VAT.
👉 Link in the bio
#BETASummit #EquestrianBusiness #HorseIndustry #HR2026 #EmploymentLaw #SmallBusinessSupport #EquestrianInnovation #Croner #AmandaChadwick
