Have you ever wondered why a racehorse, seemingly fit and ready, is suddenly withdrawn from a race just moments before the start? The world of horse racing is replete with split-second decisions and unexpected turns, and the scratching of horses from races is a prime example of this unpredictability. With over 25 years of involvement …
Have you ever faced the dilemma of deciding whether to ride your horse when it’s suffering from rain rot? This common yet perplexing issue confronts many horse owners, especially during wet seasons. Rain rot, also known as dermatophilosis, is not just a superficial skin problem; it can significantly impact your horse’s health and comfort. In …
Did you know that not all horses stop growing at the same age? While most horses reach their full height by age five, larger breeds can continue to grow until they’re about eight years old. This fact isn’t trivia; it’s a crucial piece of knowledge for anyone involved in equine care and training. My work …
Did you know mules are sterile? This intriguing fact unveils the complex relationship between mules and horses, creatures that have captivated equestrians, farmers, and animal enthusiasts with their distinct differences, preferences, and traits. As someone who has ridden and owned these animals, I have a good perspective to compare them. Yet, this article goes beyond …
Stirrups are essential to riding a horse, but an element of the saddle most horseback riders take for granted. Have you wondered about the history of the stirrup? I have so I did some research to learn more about the history of the stirrup. Saddle stirrups have a rich history. The earliest known use of …
It’s critical to routinely clean a horse’s hoofs; we recently went to the race track to watch our friend’s horse run its debut race; however, just before the race started, his horse was scratched because of an abscessed foot. This made me wonder if they are regularly cleaning their hoofs. The anatomical structure of the …
Have you ever noticed a horse walking oddly or seeming to favor one leg? This could be a case of equine lameness, an alteration in a horse’s gait usually resulting from pain or discomfort. This irregularity can stem from various causes, such as injuries, illnesses, or the strain from excessive work. Lameness isn’t merely an …