Psychological strategies and progressive exercises for riders returning after falls Every rider falls eventually. This is not dramatic pessimism; it’s just statistics. Whether it is a simple loss of balance, a spectacular spook, a refusal you were not expecting, or something more serious, the moment you hit the ground, something shifts. What was once unconscious…
Shaun Neill and Kaprisch DBH Z Photography: Megan Wright Media Shaun Neill is one of South Africa's most celebrated showjumpers, but he’s a rider whose career has been defined not just by his (many) victories, but by his resilience. After a herniated disc threatened to end his time at the top level of the sport, Shaun…
Q: What is stocking up? A: Stocking up is a phrase used to describe what happens to a horse’s legs when they swell up below the knees. Commonly owners report that a horse swells up below the knees after a night spent in the stable, but then after turn-out in the paddock, the swelling goes…
Text: Christie Wolhuter Many people are confused by the need for resistance training for equestrians. To me, it is the most important work you can do to keep up with your horse. First of all, we need to remember that horse riding is a sport, and riders should consider themselves athletes. Few top-level equestrians are not…
Q: Does my horse need to be wearing overreach boots? A: Overreach boots, also known as bell boots, are worn over the pastern and hoof. They are usually made from synthetic material or rubber and are either pulled over the foot or fastened with a Velcro strap. Overreach boots help to protect the heels of the horse's…
Q: How do I care for a wound? A: As soon as you see that your horse has a fresh wound or has opened an old wound you need to evaluate the following: Is the wound bleeding profusely? If so, you need to phone your vet immediately. Where is the wound? Is it near to…
The SA Lipizzaners talk about how they have used Ice Man to support their horse with an injury.
The five freedoms are a set of internationally recognised and commonly adopted animal welfare standards. They outline what we as animal owners or carers must provide for the animals in our care. These are not just things we must aim to do, but things we have to do in order to be responsible animal owners. The…
The five freedoms are a set of internationally recognised and commonly adopted animal welfare standards. They outline what we as animal owners or carers must provide for the animals in our care. These are not just things we must aim to do, but things we have to do in order to be responsible animal owners. The…
Q: What causes splints in horses? A: Splints are inflammation or injury of the splint bones in the lower leg and/or the adjacent bones (such as the canon bone) and/or the associated ligaments. Splints are most commonly seen in young horses training at very high intensity levels, such as Thoroughbreds. Splints also occur from working on…
