Drought tolerant, prevents erosion, easy to establish, quick recovery after grazing, hardy, resistant to disease and insects—sounds perfect, but tall fescue is not!
For broodmares it can be very dangerous! Yet it is everywhere.
Tall fescue is one of the most widespread-grasses grown in the United States.
I have seen too many cases of young horses crippled with Developmental Orthopedic Disease resulting in club foot, epiphysitis and secondary hyperparathyroidism. I have also seen many older horses afflicted with low ringbone, navicular disease and worst of all, laminitis and founder.
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Hoof care is an important element in the care of a horse. With a young horse it is important to start foot care early. Handle the feet as soon as a foal will allow it. You can prevent a lot of conformation problems by trimming early. Sometimes a hoof grows upright and boxy instead of at an angle like a normal hoof. This is called a clubfoot.
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An equine nutritionist should be a member of your team of professionals who help you maintain a healthy and happy equine partner.
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Yes, our horses do have to practice in order to perfect movements, but there can come a time when, because of practicing one particular thing over and over again, their bodies begin to lose the ability to do other movements easily.
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De-sensitization and imprinting are tools many trainer’s use Their importance to our efficient handling of horses is invaluable. From a human perspective our interaction with horses from handling to riding is safer and less stressful.
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“I am meant to be an animal psychic,” for many years, this message flashed through the head of Ann Marie Hoff, who is now the owner and operator of Rosezella’s Way.
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Breeding season can be a difficult time for owners and horses alike. While horse owners are hurrying to prepare facilities, the broodmares might be just as tense. Especially for young and maiden mares, the stress from being hauled to new facilities and being separated from stable mates might lead to stomach ulcers. And let’s not forget the foals that are with their mothers.
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Most everyone in these tough economic times is trying to cut their expenses. Horse owners are no exception. However, cutting corners on your deworming and vaccination program may end up costing you more in the long run.
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What happens if your horse is bit by a rattlesnake? I asked Dr. Nicola Pusterla of the School of Veterinary Medicine at U.C. Davis this question and others.
Where do snake bites usually occur on the horse’s body?
Because of the inquisitive nature of horses, bites usually occur on the muzzle and head of the horse.