If riding in wet or muddy conditions, deep sand, foxtails or burrs, Michigan State University’s Department of Animal Science recommends leaving your horse’s boots behind. Debris-filled boots can rub and scrape, leaving your horse’s legs vulnerable to bacterial and...
The 4-D format has become quite popular in barrel racing, thanks in large part to the National Barrel Racing Association (NBHA), but if you’re new to the sport or haven’t shown using the 4-D format, here’s how it works:All...
As adults, vacation days are few and far between. Precious free time is used not only for traveling the world, but for accomplishing things we’ve dreamed of doing before it’s too late. One of my dreams has always been...
Teamwork, speed, skill and communication all tie in with a little luck for the western sport of team penning.It all started years ago with a practical objective. In order to brand, doctor or transport single cows, ranchers first had...
There is more to the sport of jumping than just getting from one side of the obstacle to the other. Yet it seems that many English riders envision themselves leaping over challenging jumps long before they're truly up to...
The consequences of jet lag in horses have become more relevant in recent years due to international competition and the import/export of horses worldwide. If you’ve flown internationally, you understand how “out of sorts” jet lag can make you...
When it comes to grooming for a show, most of an equestrian’s energy ends up focused on the horse; but a rider’s turnout needs to be neat and tidy, too. Here are some strategies to help you stay as spotless as...
Pasture-kept horses have the ability to interact socially and are exposed to a rich environment, but have less contact with humans than their stall-kept counterparts. A 1997 study* has found that in spite of decreased human intervention, young pasture...
The Center for Equine Health at UC Davis recently conducted studies on transported horses. The following tips are among their recommendations:
• Avoid shipping sick horses unless it's an emergency.• During long trips (six to eight hours) avoid restricting the horse's head...
When traveling with your horse, whether it’s local or across state lines, government officials are probably going to ask you for certain documentation along the way. A health certificate and proof of a negative Coggins test may be all...
