A horse who raises his head while being ridden may be in pain, especially if he also hollows his back, pins his ears or wrings his tail. Carefully examine your tack for protruding screws or other sources of discomfort and check for proper fit. Why does my horse raise its Read more…
One of the first lessons a novice rider is taught is that when a horse’s ears are forward he is alert, paying attention and/or interested in what’s in front of him, and when his ears are pinned back close to the neck he is angry and about to bite or Read more…
It’s perfectly normal for all horses to shake their heads at some time or another. Thankfully, in general it’s just a defence mechanism aimed at agitating and dislodge any pesky flies. How do I fix my horses head shaking? Headshaking can be triggered in response to wind, light, or increased Read more…
According to a study by the Retired Racehorse Training Project, 75% of retired racehorses sold to new owners are used for horseback riding and 11% are retired to the pasture to live out their days in rest. What happens to racehorses when they can’t race anymore? After their racing careers Read more…
Signs One of the most common signs of EMS is the development of abnormal fat deposits (pockets/bulges/pads), usually seen around the crest, behind the shoulder, the hind quarters (especially at the tail head) and above the eyes. Difficulty losing weight. Recurring episodes of acute laminitis. How common is EMS in Read more…
Flared nostrils are a sign of arousal – whether in excitement (such as play), fear, or when startled, but also on meeting a new horse or investigating a new stimulus or environment. The nostrils may narrow and elongate with wrinkles appearing behind them indicating annoyance, irritation or an aggressive threat. Read more…
Licensed products for horses include pethidine, butorphanol and buprenorphine but morphine, fentanyl and tramadol are unlicensed opioids often used in equine patients (Table 3). With opioids, care should be taken to record all use and wastage appropriately due to their controlled substance status. What pain killers can you give a Read more…
Dental issues are the first thing to look for when trying to solve head shaking or tossing problems. Extra teeth that grow in front of the chewing teeth, called wolf teeth, can also cause problems with the bit. Your vet can advise you on how to deal with this. What Read more…
These horses would be walking (clip-clop) or trotting (clippity-clop). These sounds are closely associated with horses, I think. They are the sounds used in children’s books. Clop is the sound of a hoof striking the pavement; clopping is the verb for making the sound. What sound does a horse make Read more…
Horses nod their heads as a signal of energy, excitement, or irritation. They also nod when bothered by ear infections and insects. Horses that lower and raise their heads in a calm, controlled manner may be showing a sign of submission to convey a simple hello. What does it mean Read more…