Working with horses on the ground can be just as dangerous as riding, with the possibility of a horse stepping on or knocking over their handler. Here are some tips on how to safely lead your horse on the ground.
Stand on the left side of your horse, holding the [...]
Riders who board their horses near the city and stay on relatively urban trails probably never have to worry about riding during hunting season. However, if you ride your horse in a shared use area that is open to hunters, you must take measures to ensure that you and your horse are not confused with [...]
Depending on what type of training you do with your horse, you may find that his legs require additional protection from scrapes and bruising. Here are several of the most common types of leg boots and wraps available, and their uses.
Bell boots. Usually made of thick rubber, these boots fasten [...]
Since many ailments are more easily treatable with early detection, being able to catch early warning signs that something is changing in your horse’s body is vitally important. All horse owners should know their horse’s resting heart rate, respiration, and temperature.
To check your horse’s pulse, find an artery close to the skin and count the [...]
If you live and ride in an area with poisonous snakes, it is vital to know how to handle a potentially deadly snakebite. Here’s what to do if your horse gets bitten.
Call your vet. This is an emergency situation that requires immediate attention. Most bites [...]
Even if your horse is incredibly healthy, he will likely experience a vet exam at least once a year for vaccinations and dental work. All horses should know how to stand calmly and be examined by your veterinarian. Here are some things to bear in mind, to keep both you and your horse safe and [...]
Most horse owners routinely tie up their horses, whether during grooming, tacking up, or just to keep the horse secure while they attend to something else. However, if not done correctly, this seemingly simple and everyday practice could be putting you and your horse in a very dangerous situation.
Always tie your horse with a quick [...]
If you’ve ever seen a horse that has cast himself, you’re not likely to forget the sight. Although it doesn’t happen often, this is an emergency situation that is possible for every horse owner to find themselves in. Sometimes a horse will misjudge how much room they have when they lie down or roll near [...]
Few things have more potential to seriously damage your horse’s health than his feed. Whether it’s moldy or dusty hay, toxic plants, or simply the type of hay, what your horse ingests will have serious implications on his overall well-being. It is important, first and foremost, to feed your horse hay that is compatible with [...]
If you want to keep your horse happy, healthy, and free from energy sucking parasites, it is vital to implement a deworming routine that is both varied and regular. Most horses should be dewormed about every two months. If your barn typically has new horses arriving all the time, or if your horse is either [...]
For many horse enthusiasts, sharing a trail with an equine companion is the closest thing to heaven to be found here on earth. But without the right preparation, even small emergencies can turn that blissful ride into a nightmare. Always let someone know where you will be riding and how long you expect to be [...]
Riding at night can be extremely dangerous, and should always be done with caution. However, should you find yourself caught after the sun goes down, or if you are intent on taking your horse out for a moonlit ride, it is important to be prepared. Have a flashlight with you, or even better, a headlamp [...]
Learning to ride without the security of a saddle or stirrups might seem like a scary proposition, but it can actually help you to bond more closely with your horse and improve your seat at the same time. With bareback riding there is a greater chance of falling, so be sure to always wear your [...]
Barn fires are, sadly, the leading disaster that horse owners encounter. Fire prevention is key so, first and foremost, prohibit smoking on the property – a carelessly discarded cigarette can spark a fire in a matter of seconds. Don’t use appliances, such as space heaters, without supervision. Conduct routine inspections of your electrical systems. Do [...]
Are you prepared to evacuate your horse should there be a natural disaster in your area? Take a look at the following checklist to see what you might be missing.
Ensure your horse knows how to trailer quickly and quietly. In many situations, time is of the essence, and whether you can get your horse out [...]
It’s not only your horse that can suffer in an emergency at the stable. Be sure that you and your fellow riders are well prepared by keeping the following items well-stocked:
Self-adhesive bandages. This will probably be the most used item, so check the supply often and be sure that you replenish as needed. Keep all [...]
If your horse was injured in an emergency at the barn, would you have the essentials to handle the situation? Here’s a look at essential items for your first aid kit:
Key information about your horse. Record when he’s had his last shots, what he normally eats, and his normal resting pulse, respiration, and temperature.
Thermometer. Practice [...]
When an emergency presents itself, you may find you and your horse unprepared for a trailer ride. In this case, there are a couple of methods that can be used to force a horse into a trailer without causing pain.
Sedatives may seem an easy answer, however these should only be a last resort as they [...]
Being able to quietly and easily load into a trailer is an important skill that all horses should have. Whether a natural disaster that requires evacuation or a medical emergency that means a trip to a veterinary hospital, your horse may be at risk if he cannot easily walk into a trailer.
It is important to [...]
For many women horse owners there is not much that can keep them from the barn. But what happens if you find out you are pregnant? Unfortunately there is little other than anecdotal evidence on the relationship between pregnancy and riding, but there are a few basic things to consider. Falling is your biggest risk, [...]