Q: Which conformational factors are considered important to look for in a riding horse? A: When looking at the conformation of the horse to assess his rideability, the following factors should be considered: The back and ribs A relatively short back is generally strongest for taking weight, as it has shorter, stronger coupling than a longer back.…
Q: What are the bars? A: It is easiest to think of the bars as the parts of the hoof that, rather than finishing the circle formed by the hoof wall, have turned inwards towards the centre of the foot at the angles of the heel. By doing this the bars are still able to take…
Q: What are corns? A: The 'seat of corn' is the area of sole between the bar and the heel wall, and a bruise in this area is called a corn. Corns are a big problem in shod horses with collapsed heels. When the wall folds under at the heel and the bars become bent, pressure is…
By Hayley Kruger Boxing already has a degree of risk involved, so as responsible horse owners we should make every effort to make the process as safe as possible. Things to look out for include: Making sure that there are no sharp edges in or around the trailer: The trailer should be free of sharp edges…
Q: My instructor says that my horse has cow hocks. Should I be concerned? Will this affect his sale-ability in the future? Asked anonymously [A] Cow hocks are deviations of the hock when the hocks are viewed from behind. In the case of cow hocks, the hocks are set closer together than the fetlocks. If extreme, this…
[Q] How can I keep my horse on the bridle when transitioning downwards? Asked by Chesney Williams [A] Problems with maintaining a contact through downward transitions are common symptoms of a lack of throughness or suppleness. In order to achieve true throughness, your horse must create energy in his hindquarters and transfer it over his back, withers,…
Q: Why are horses considered so useful in therapy? A: The major reason that horses are considered to be so good for therapy is that they tend to act as emotional mirrors to humans. They respond to the feelings we show, often with similar feelings. Being herd and prey animals mean that they have strong emotional…
Q: Why do horses like sugary treats? Asked by Savannah Grant A: Horses like sugary treats for the same reason we do - they're sweet and they taste good. However, horses also like salty treats. Everything must be fed in moderation of course. Rather feed your horse deliciously sweet apple than a sugar cube! At least an…
Q: What is public liability cover and how does it work? When can or can't you claim? A: Public liability cover is insurance cover that you can purchase to protect you in the event that your horse causes damage to a third party. This damage may be either an injury to a person or damage to…
Q: Can diet improve heart health? A: While your horse's diet doesn't affect his heart in the same way as a human's diet affects their heart, it is still important to remember that a horse does need essential vitamins and minerals for his heart to function optimally. The heart is essentially a muscle, and vitamins and…

