As a general rule, most horses don’t like having a bit in their mouth. However, some enjoy playing with the bit and are able to focus more on the rider’s aids as a result. Why do you put a bit in a horses mouth? By definition, a bit is a Read more…
The vast majority of horses used for riding and other activities are geldings, as they tend to be calmer and easier to handle than stallions. However, stallions are still sometimes used for riding and other purposes, particularly in disciplines such as racing, where you can put their natural athleticism to Read more…
Most riders agree that bits can cause pain to horses. A too-severe bit in the wrong hands, or even a soft one in rough or inexperienced hands, is a well-known cause of rubs, cuts and soreness in a horse’s mouth. Dr. Cook’s research suggests the damage may go even deeper Read more…
Mandibular fractures may follow kicks to the head or significant fall whilst wearing a bitted bridle and usually involve the vertical or horizontal part of one side of the jaw. Fractures are often comminuted – where the bone is in multiple pieces. Can horses dislocate their jaw? Summary. Fracture of Read more…
There is no cure for tetanus except to wait for your body to fight it off. Supportive care such as fluids, antibiotics, and an antitoxin medication will help your horse battle the toxin. Unfortunately, most cases result in death, but with annual vaccination, it is easy to avoid. What causes Read more…
Listen for a snort. This causes a loud fluttering sound in the nostrils which lasts for about a second. Snorting indicates your horse has identified a potential danger, and is investigating it. If your horse shies away from something after snorting, this indicates fear. How can you tell if a Read more…
Don’t make a big deal out of it Don’t overreact when your horse does get frightened. Just stay relaxed, focus on your balance and work on getting the horse under control if he gets jumpy. If you get stiff, yank on the reins, push your horse or start to clamp Read more…
Snorting is thought of as a positive form of horse communication. When a horse makes this noise, they are letting others around them know that they are happy and content. Snorting is typically accompanied by other forms of positive communication, such as a swishing tail and a calm facial reaction. Read more…
(used to command an animal, especially a horse, to stop.) (used to tell a person to stop, wait, or slow down): Whoa, you need to sit over there and calm yourself. What do you say to a horse to stop? whoaIt’s whoa. This interjection means “stop.” You might use it Read more…
Handlers are never loud or rowdy in their behaviour when near horses. Keep your voice low when around horses as yelling can cause a horse to startle. Do not allow anyone to run, throw things, or make loud noises near the horse. Always approach the horse from his left and Read more…