Princess Royal visits Shanaghan Veterinary Services for BHS Ireland Equine Futures Day

The event brought together veterinary surgeons, riders, land managers, equine professionals and distinguished guests from across the United Kingdom and Ireland to explore progressive equestrianism—an approach that recognises the close relationship between horses, people and the land.

Hosted at Shanaghan Hill Farm, a family-run 80-acre sheep and horse farm nestled in the hills and valleys of Co Down, the event showcased how veterinary science, education, welfare leadership, regenerative farming and collaboration can work together to improve outcomes for horses, people and the environment.

Managed with a regenerative ethos, Shanaghan Hill Farm provided a fitting backdrop for the visit. Its guiding principle is that healthy soils, healthy ecosystems and responsible land stewardship support healthier horses, livestock and communities.

Dr Esther Skelly-Smith, Veterinary Surgeon and owner of Shanaghan Veterinary Services, said: “We were honoured to welcome Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal to Shanaghan Veterinary Services.

“The day reflected everything we are passionate about - excellent equine care, responsible land management and a progressive approach to the future of horses, people and the environment.

“It was a privilege to share how veterinary science, regenerative farming and practical horsemanship can work together to support long-term health and wellbeing.”

Mrs Susan Spratt, BHS manager Ireland and event organiser, said: “It was an honour to share the BHS Ireland Equine Futures Day with Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal.

“The day provided a wonderful opportunity to showcase the strength of our partnerships, the importance of knowledge transfer across the equestrian sector and, in particular, the incredible impact of the BHS Ireland Learning with Horses programme.

“Funded by BBC Children in Need, this life-changing initiative continues to transform the lives of young people through the unique power of horses."

Highlights from the visit

The visit began at Shanaghan Veterinary Services, where Dr Esther Skelly-Smith introduced Her Royal Highness to the practice's integrated approach to equine veterinary care. Discussions focused on veterinary rehabilitation, acupuncture, chiropractic, laser therapy, chronic pain management and equine dentistry, highlighting how evidence-based, patient-centred care can support horse health, welfare, rehabilitation and performance.

The Princess Royal then viewed a series of demonstrations and discussions focused on the whole-horse approach to equine management, illustrating how veterinary care, nutrition, welfare, environment and sympathetic handling all contribute to long-term equine wellbeing.

The Princess Royal observed a practical demonstration on starting young horses, delivered by Helen Spence of Spence Horse Sense, with assistance from Mark Robinson, British Horse Society Coach. The demonstration showcased calm, progressive and welfare-focused training methods that develop confidence, trust and positive foundations from the very beginning of a horse's education.

Timothy Smith of Shanaghan Hill Farm demonstrated the farm's regenerative approach to soil health and land management, explaining how nature-friendly farming techniques, rotational grazing, biodiversity enhancement and working with natural systems can improve soil resilience while supporting the long-term health and welfare of both horses and livestock.

Building on this, Alan Creighton of the Irish Equine Centre explored the wider principles of sustainable land management, highlighting the importance of soil health, pasture management and resilient grazing systems in supporting equine welfare and environmental sustainability.

Staff from CAFRE delivered a practical demonstration on evidence-based equine parasite management, showcasing the latest faecal worm egg counting techniques and discussing targeted parasite control to support horse health while helping to reduce anthelmintic resistance.

Representatives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) also highlighted Operation Gallop, outlining the initiative's role in preventing equine crime, improving horse identification and encouraging partnership between horse owners, policing and the wider equestrian community.

The Princess Royal spent time with the renowned Shanaghan Horses, including Irish Draught and Irish Sport Horse mares and youngstock, and showed particular interest in the important contribution of the Irish Draught to modern sport horse breeding.

A day of connection and collaboration

Prior to Her Royal Highness's arrival, around 50 delegates and distinguished guests attended a networking lunch, creating opportunities to exchange ideas, strengthen partnerships and discuss the future of the equine sector.

Delegates travelled from across the United Kingdom and Ireland, underlining the significance of the event and the British Horse Society's continued commitment to advancing equine welfare, education, sustainability and lifelong learning.