The UK is facing its worst hay crisis in over a century. Spring 2025 brought the driest conditions in 50 years for the UK, and England's driest spring in more than 100 years. Hay yields have dropped by 50-75% in some regions. Prices have doubled or tripled. Horse owners fed hay through summer when they'd normally rest their budgets. And climate change projections suggest this is the new reality. In this first episode of our three-day Hay Crisis Special, we sit down with Emeline Hannaley, Horse Care and Welfare Education Manager at the British Horse Society, for practical, actionable advice on how to manage your horses through this shortage without compromising their welfare or breaking the bank.

📌 IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN:

The Reality Check: How bad is the shortage really? Regional variations and what suppliers are experiencing on the ground. The Wastage Problem: Studies show 30% of hay fed to horses ends up on the muck heap. How to identify and eliminate waste in your feeding routine.

Slow-Release Feeding: Hay nets, hay balls, hables, and other enrichment devices that extend eating time and reduce consumption (without frustrating your horse).

Alternative Forages: Chaff, sugar beet, forage mashes, and even oat or barley straw—when to introduce them and how to do it safely.

Weight Management Opportunity: Over 60% of horses the BHS assesses are overweight. This crisis is a chance to reassess your horse's diet and body condition.

Storage Solutions: DIY weatherproofing, pallets, and maximizing small spaces when you don't have a barn.

Financial Strategies: Payment plans, sharing delivery costs, and where to cut costs without compromising welfare.

Climate Adaptation: What horse ownership might look like in five years and how we can prepare now.

RESOURCES: British Horse Society Welfare Helpline: 02476 840517 Email: welfare@bhs.org.uk Hay crisis advice & cost-cutting tips: bhs.org.uk Free nutritionist helplines available through major feed companies

ABOUT CURIOUS EQUESTRIAN: We explore the questions horse owners are afraid to ask. From mental health to practical horse care, we bring you the experts. This episode is made possible by our Inquisitive Herd members. Join for bonus Q&As, behind-the-scenes planning calls, and a community of thoughtful horse people: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CuriousEquestrian

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