Horses have no feeling in their mane, but they do grow hair that is just as sensitive as human hair. Unlike our hairs on the top of your head, horse’s hairs are not usually trimmed. Do horses have feeling in their manes? MYTH: “Pulling a horse’s mane doesn’t hurt! They Read more…
When a horse always resists cantering on a particular lead, it’s usually because it’s physically difficult or painful to do so. Lead problems may result from discomfort or stiffness anywhere in the legs, body or back. How do you get a horse to pick up the right lead? How to Read more…
Broken necks in horses are potentially devastating but rare. A crashing fall more often results in fracture of the limbs or of the thoracic spine. When neck fractures do occur, the outcome may be sudden death or euthanasia a short while later due to paralysis. Often, however, the horse is Read more…
A fistula is an atypical area that comes from an infection, and leads from the body of the horse to the outer part of the body. Fistulous withers occurs when the outer part of the withers of the horse is filled with a pus-like substance from infection. How do you Read more…
“Banging” is the traditional term used to refer to trimming the bottom of your horse’s tail. Banging gives the tail a thick, boxy, healthy tail appearance. For best results, trim it when the hair is wet and combed out. Cut only the longest hairs straight across the bottom. How do Read more…
The poll is especially important in riding, as correct flexion at the poll joint is a sign that the horse is properly on the bit. What does the poll do on a horse? They also attach to the base of the skull, called the insertion point, the part of the Read more…
Though we can’t control our horse’s genetics, we can maintain their tail in a way that protects it and promotes its growth. A common method of doing this is using a tail bag. A tail bag exactly what it sounds like, and it is usually made of lycra or nylon. Read more…
Most average horses can travel at the pace of a gallop only 2 miles (3 km) without fatigue and about 20 miles (32 km) at the pace of a trot. You can ride your horse 25 and 35 miles (40 – 56.5 km) without rest when it walks steady. How Read more…
Use a whip or polo wrap wedged under the tail bone so that it pokes out just a bit, or a lot, depending on your horse. Grab the tail in your fist and gently slide down towards the ground, until you are at the desired length, then use super-sharp scissors Read more…
When a horse goes lame, you can’t ride them. Riding a lame horse can injure it further and will almost certainly cause pain. Should you exercise a lame horse? With almost any injury, controlled exercise is a crucial component of a successful recovery. Hand walking, or even walking under saddle, Read more…