Summer warning over flip flops and sandals

As temperatures continue to rise across parts of the UK,  The British Grooms Association (BGA) is urging grooms to think twice before swapping their yard boots for flip flops, sandals or foam clogs.

Every summer, the BGA receives calls from grooms who have suffered serious foot injuries after handling horses while wearing unsuitable footwear during periods of hot weather.

"Each summer we hear stories from grooms who have been injured while wearing unsuitable footwear around horses," said Lucy Katan MBE, Executive Director of the British Grooms Association.

"Often, they weren't doing anything unusual. They were turning out, bringing in, holding a horse for the farrier or simply popping onto the yard for a few minutes. Unfortunately, that's all it takes."

Injuries can range from crushed toes and broken bones to severe soft tissue damage, lost toenails and, in the worst cases, permanent damage to the foot.

One groom shared her experience:

Another yard owner recalled a devastating incident involving a young horse owner:

The BGA is particularly concerned that younger grooms, students and those working long hours in the current heatwave may underestimate the risks associated with open-toed footwear.

"Horses don't know what you're wearing on your feet," continued Lucy.

"A horse weighing 500kg or more can cause life-changing injuries with a single misplaced step. Flip flops, sandals, sliders and fashion footwear offer virtually no protection against that force."

The Association is encouraging all grooms to wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear whenever they are handling horses, moving around the yard or carrying out routine stable duties.

The BGA message is simple: save the sandals for the beach and keep your boots on around horses.

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