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, 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 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 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 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 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. 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 Read more…
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 Read more…
An underbite (monkey mouth, sow mouth, prognathism) is a deformity in which the lower incisors extend beyond the upper incisors. All dental misalignments eventually affect the wear pattern on other teeth, making regular dental care essential. What causes parrot mouth Read more…
You can ride your horse without a bit. Some work well bitless, and others perform better with a bit. But a bit typically gives a rider more control of their horse. Bits have critical differences, but how you use your Read more…