Have you been caught riding in the rain? Before you panic, there are ways to save your leather bridle and saddle even if they’re dotted with rain drops or soaked from a downpour.First, take a soft, dry cloth...
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...
Winter blankets harbor bacteria and fungi that can lead to skin irritation. Keep winter blankets dry, and clean them regularly. On sunny days, remove blankets, turn them inside out, remove loose hair and dirt with a stiff brush and...
Fly masks offer protection from annoying insects, so horses across the country are outfitted in them during summer’s winged onslaught. But fly masks can sometimes harm your horse if basic application guidelines aren’t followed.We asked equine veterinarian Jim Brendemuehl...
If your horse has managed to rip, tear, shred or otherwise mangle his blanket in the midst of a cold snap, here are some things you can do to hold it together until you make it to the tack...
Of course you should always ride your horse in the bit that lets him perform at his best. And you must be in control of your horse for that to happen. But while pelhams are common in equitation and...
There isn't a more disconcerting feeling than realizing that your reins have become disengaged from your western bit because the Chicago screws have come undone. Even if you thought you'd twisted them into infinity, the things can slowly untwist....
Now that summer weather is in full force, make sure that you are treating the effects of summer time sweat. First, your horse should have regular access to clean, fresh water. Dump and scrub water troughs or plastic buckets...
"The Vaquero method of training is a beautiful song,” explains Sheila Varian, “sung with the softness and beauty of the rhythm of the horse. It’s about the total harmony and togetherness of horse and rider.”Based on centuries-old traditions, the...
You can't expect to adequately control a horse, especially an energetic horse, if you are longeing in a loose halter. If you do longe in a halter, it must have a very close fit and not be able to...
