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Results from a previous study indicated that there are specific arena surface characteristics that are associated with an increased likelihood of lameness in dressage horses. It is important to understand what modifiable arena factors lead to these detrimental surface characteristics. The aim of this study was to describe the use of training surfaces and arenas for United Kingdom dressage horses and to investigate any relationships between arena/surface variables and detrimental surface characteristics. Data from a questionnaire returned by 22.5% of all 11363 registered members of British Dressage were used for the study. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were developed with each of the previously identified surface characteristics as dependent variables. Respondents reported that the majority of arenas were privately owned, sized 20 x 40 m and had a sand and rubber surface. The results indicated that wax-coated and sand and rubber surfaces were associated with less detrimental surface properties than sand, sand and PVC, woodchips or grass. Woodchips were most strongly associated with the detrimental characteristic of slipping, and sand with tripping. The findings indicated that any arena surface should have a base, with limestone the recommended surface, and that crushed concrete was best avoided. This information supported previous studies in racehorses that indicated that surface maintenance is essential, especially when many horses are using an arena daily. Problems were less likely if an arena was privately owned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Genetic evaluation of sport horses for dressage competition and estimation of breeding values are performed in many Northern European countries. To date, no such system has been used in GB. The aim of this study was to estimate genetic parameters for performance in dressage competition and then to predict breeding values for horses competing in dressage in GB using an animal model. The percentage of marks awarded was used as the performance measure. Random effects comprised additive genetic, horse permanent environment, class, event and class–event interaction. Horse gender, age, height and competition standard were included as fixed effects. In a second model, breed class was added as a fixed effect. Heritability (SE) of performance in the two models was 0.15 (0.018) (no breed) and 0.11 (0.036) (including breed). In both models age was significantly associated with performance (P <0.001), with performance peaking at age 10. Stallions performed significantly better than geldings. A significant association between performance and height was detected only in the model which did not include breed effects. The model including breed was considered to be the most appropriate, given the nature of the sport horse population in GB. It should be possible to predict breeding values of sufficient accuracy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]