Horses arrive at Eurexpo for Equita Lyon

On the eve of the opening of Equita Lyon, the first horses have arrived at Eurexpo. They are undergoing veterinary checks and being settled into their stalls to ensure their health and well-being before the first competitions.

Veterinary checks ensure safety and health

Before entering the hall reserved for the international show jumping competition (CSI), each horse undergoes a mandatory veterinary check. This includes verifying the horse's identity through a chip, checking vaccinations, and recording temperature data in the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) application.

Horses enter a secure area for monitoring

The horses are then placed in an enclosed area, often referred to as a sanitary bubble. If any horse shows signs of illness or an abnormal temperature, it is placed in a quarantine stall. This measure helps prevent the spread of disease among horses from different countries.

Veterinarians oversee health and safety

Nearly eight veterinarians are on duty at the CSI to ensure the horses are fit to compete. They monitor health, manage emergencies, and ensure the strict protocols are followed to minimize any health risks.

Grooms create a familiar environment

Tiffany Marcel, a full-time groom, has installed the two horses she is responsible for during the five days of competition: Amour and Polisson. She recreates a familiar environment with bedding, food, and accessories to help the horses feel at home despite the change in location.

Daily care ensures horse well-being

Tiffany checks the horses' condition every morning, feeds them, and cleans their bedding. She examines their limbs and feet for any signs of swelling or heat. Her role includes daily care, recovery support, and first aid when necessary.

Attention to detail improves performance

Tiffany adjusts the clipping on the horses to reduce friction from the saddle and spurs. She explains that every detail is considered to ensure the horses are at their best, even if it means being overly protective.

Grooms understand horse behavior

Through close daily interaction, grooms like Tiffany learn to recognize their horses' behaviors and detect any changes that might indicate a problem. This bond is built through passion and dedication to the animals' well-being.

Public health events highlight equine care

The health of the horses is part of the program open to visitors at the fair, organized from Wednesday, October 28, to Sunday, November 1, at Eurexpo. The health pole offers conferences, workshops, and activities focused on equine prevention and care.

Focus on emergencies and senior horses

The theme of this year's health events is emergencies, including recognizing early signs and responding to critical situations. A virtual reality animation will allow participants to experience an operating room. The well-being day on Thursday will focus on senior horses and the care they require as they age.