The BHS have received reports of uncontrolled dogs interacting negatively with horses and are gathering information on these attacks.

Riders have a responsibilty to themselves and their horse when out hacking and anything to make themsleves more visible is good thing. So, why then do I see riders out hacking on country roads with their dogs running loose and not under control of the owner?

How can a rider control their horse and their dog at the same time? Not only is it inconsiderate to other riders who are not expecting a dog to be running loose and may startle their horse but its especially inocnsiderate to walkers, who have their own dogs on a lead, and car drivers who have to avoid the dog running loose and also watch the horse while passing.

Non horsey friends I know have complained frequently to me about these riders and their loose dogs and how irresponsible it is, so either ride or walk your dog, don’t do both at the same time.

And finally, not content with our revamped Scottish Horse website www.scottishhorse.co.uk where we’ll add breaking news stories and full show reports that there’s not always space for in The Scottish Farmer but in our spare time we’ve started a facebook page, just search for The Scottish Horse and become a fan.