Young horses, or horses with excess energy, galloping freely in a field often hoist their tails high to show their exuberance. Horses that are spooked or frightened of something will also “flag” their tails, and mares in heat may raise their tails or flick it to one side to indicate Read more…
A leg might swing out to the side or under the body; a joint might overflex, or a foot scuff or drag. If he trips, an ataxic horse may be slow to correct himself and potentially fall. His trunk, neck or both might sway. Can horses get ataxia? By far Read more…
The extent to which the tail is clamped down will signal the extent to which the horse is feeling afraid. Horses will also clamp their tails down if they are feeling weak, tired or unwell. Why does my horse clamp his tail? The clamped tail and clenched hindquarters of a Read more…
After you have accumulated all of your supplies, it is time to get started. Running braids are popular because they do not take much time. In fact, once you are a proficient braider you will most likely be able to braid a mane in this style within 10 minutes. How Read more…
For the rider, keeping the shoulders back and abdomen aimed in the direction of travel will ensure that their weight will support, rather than hinder, the horse’s freedom through the inside shoulder. By keeping the centre of weight in line with the horse’s core, the rider can influence without getting Read more…
Depending on the size of the horse and thickness of the mane, you want between 30 and 40 braids to accent the horse’s neck. To achieve this look, you will need a mane that is even in thickness and short, between four to five inches in length. How many braids Read more…
Normal healthy horses occasionally stretch this way, and it is not indicative of any problem. Some horses do it frequently. This is the so called “downward dog” posture. However, horses experiencing abdominal pain (colic) may stretch this way as a means of seeking relief. Why does my horse stretch like Read more…
What is a “cinchy” horse? A “cinchy” or “cold-backed” horse has a tendency to overreact and possibly buck when pressure is applied around his belly or flank area. It’s normal for a horse to feel reactive whenever this area is squeezed tightly. What causes a horse to be Cinchy? Your Read more…
If you want to boost your horse’s health, try coconut oil! You might have heard how great it is for people, but it’s also perfect for in the barn too. Saturated fats can be helpful to the outside and inside of your horse. Can you put coconut oil on horse Read more…
The tail of the horse and other equines consists of two parts, the dock and the skirt. The dock consists of the muscles and skin covering the coccygeal vertebrae. The term “skirt” refers to the long hairs that fall below the dock. Is the horse tail made of hair? The Read more…