Sticky gums are a sign that your pony is dehydrated, and that you need to call your vet. To avoid dehydration you need to make sure that your pony has access to clean, fresh water at all times. If your pony is refusing to drink for some reason you can try adding something sweet (like […]
Pony health check #4: Gums Read More »
Your pony’s mucous membranes include his gums, his nostrils and his eyelids. These areas (as discussed briefly in the previous posts) can all provide helpful clues about the health of your pony. We want all of these areas to be a nice salmon pink colour. If you notice any of the following colour changes to
Pony health check #3: Mucous membranes Read More »
Capillary refill time sounds a tad technical for most of us, but in reality it is a very basic test. The process involves pressing on your pony’s gums until they go a white-ish colour. Then remove your finger and they should return to healthy salmon pink. If it takes more than two seconds for the
Pony health check #2: Capillary refill time Read More »
Your horse’s eyes should be bright and without any signs of swelling, redness, or anything leaking from the eye. Redness of the eye, leaking from the eye or swelling on or around it can be a sign of an eye issue. If you are concerned about your horse’s eye or notice anything unusual, contact your
Pony health check #1: Eyes Read More »
Jump-offs can be great fun (with a smidge of stress) but just how do you make sure that you give your pony the best chance to shine in terms of speed and accuracy? Find out here… 1. Memorise, memorise Memorise the jump-off track as well as you did the first course! 2. Assess the risk
5 tips to beat the jump-off clock Read More »
Painted black To be registered, the Friesian must be black with no white markings. Minimal white hairs may be present on the forehead but are considered undesirable. Rarely, chestnuts are born. This only ever happens when both the parents are carriers of the recessive chestnut gene. A knight’s tale The Friesian’s ancestors were called destriers
10 cool things about Friesians Read More »
At HQ we have started a new project – and we want you and your ponies to be involved. The project is called #HQHack1000 and it involves you hacking 1000km with your pony over the next year or so. Each time you hack all you have to do is track the number of kilometres that
Q: Why do we hold our little fingers (pinkies) underneath the reins? Wouldn’t it be easier if we didn’t? A: Our little finger goes between the two reins on a double bridle – which is what everyone used to ride in in days gone by. Also, it’s like having something in reserve brake-wise. You can
Q: What’s the difference between a star and a snip? Aren’t they both white markings on a pony’s face? A: They are both white markings but a star is a small white marking between a pony’s eyes and a snip is an even smaller marking between a pony’s nostrils. Some ponies have both a star
Q: The pony I usually ride is a bit slow. I don’t know whether I should get a whip or not. If I do, should I get one with a thin end, or a thick one, or doesn’t it matter? A: Most riding school ponies tend to ignore their riders if they possibly can. You
