In every issue of Horse & Rider you'll find articles on training by the country's leading experts, the latest on equine health care from top veterinarians, trail riding tips from savvy back country riders, and much more!
Well, endless only in our minds. Our budgets often dictate otherwise. But a resourceful rider can find horse activities that don’t break the bank, plus devise shortcuts to save cash without sacrificing the fun. Here we’ll offer ideas and tips for making memories with your horse while the sun shines without spending a fortune. Do you have ideas to share? Send them to HorseandRider@aimmedia.com. GO NATIONAL National parks boast some of the world’s greatest scenery, and many can be enjoyed from horseback for a pittance. Reservations are required to horse camp in national parks, so plan ahead. Check all fees (usually between $20 and $50), and inquire about rules and regulations, including which trails are open to horses and if grazing is permitted. Obtain all necessary permits and vaccination documents.…
An important show, a destination trail ride, a permanent move that involves transporting your horses…whatever the reason for the ride, you and your horse are facing a long-haul road trip. Not only is it a long way to go, but you’ll also travel in summer weather, i.e., the hottest time of the year. How can you minimize the risks of hot-weather travel to ensure that your horse is safe, and that he arrives in top-notch form when it really counts? You’re smart to ask, because trailering horses is always risky. Every time you load a horse in that little metal box, close the doors, and head down the road, he could stress out, hurt himself, or end up sick. And when temperatures soar, risks increase. I’m going to explain the…
In spite of your best efforts, there’s always a chance your horse will get too hot. If he seems weak or less responsive than normal whne you oopen the trailor door, it’s time to unload and check him out. The following signs mean he could be at risk of life-threatening heat exhaustion. • Rectal temperature of 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.• Rapid, shallow breathing, with a respiratory rate higher than 30 breaths per minute.• Heart rate higher than 60 beats per minute that doesn’t decrease to normal (40 beats per minute) within 10 minutes of unloading.• Dark-pink mucous membranes.• Entire body is covered in sweat, with small veins popping out under his skin. What shoulkd you do if you see these signs? It’s time to take aggressing measures to cool…
Spring and summer can bring disastrous weather. Depending on where you live, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes can generate heavy rains, destructive winds, and the possibility of flooding. For peace of mind, prepare in advance to keep your horses safe, using the information below to create a written plan. To Do Now Form a support network. Contact local groups (county emergency teams, humane organizations, agriculture extension agents) and larger agencies (such as FEMA and the Coast Guard) to learn what help is available in your area. Network with neighbors and horse-owner coalitions. Create a list of emergency contact numbers. Troubleshoot feed/water needs. In severe storms, roads and bridges can wash out and power can fail. Will you have adequate stores of feed? Alternate water sources if necessary? Brainstorm your back-up strategies…
