HORSES By James Griffith INTRODUTION TO HORSES Horses
HORSES By : James Griffith
INTRODUTION TO HORSES Horses are beautiful animals with people like personalities, most love people, others love you if you have food. Some things you should do when you get a horse are: 1. Don’t be in a hurry. Trust me, there are lots of horses out there. When you buy a horse, you need to remember that you’re going to be saddled with a lot of responsibilities (pun intended). If you buy a horse, you could be paying for feed, and board, and saddles, and training, and horse shows, and horse shoers, and veterinarians, and grooms, and brushes, and sprays, and ointments, and creams, and those oh-so-pretty checkered leg wraps that you’re horse will be unable to live without. And that’s not considering the hours that you’re going to spend grooming and riding and holding and feeding and whatever else. Given everything else that you’re going to be spending, make sure you spend the time to get what you want. Ride the horse as many times as you can. See if you can get him moved to where you’re going to keep him – sometimes horses behave quite differently when they are in unfamiliar surroundings. Try him in different circumstances. Wait for a color you like. Whatever requirements you have for a horse, satisfy them: then consider buying! All good things come to those who wait.
INTRODUTION TO HORSES [CONTINUED] 2. Don’t have unrealistic expectations. I remember one time when I was looking at a horse that was going to be used as a show hunter. I asked the lady what she was looking for (this was at the time when fences were always measured according to the English system, in feet and inches). She said, “Oh, he doesn’t have to jump very high – 3′ 6″ will be fine. Even 3′ 5″ would be OK. ” (If you don’t understand why that’s funny, you’ll have to ask your friends, or email me. It’s like looking for a 5 th level dressage horse. ) Anyway, the point is that she was fairly realistic about what she was looking for. She wasn’t looking for one horse, in hopes that he would end up being another. If a horse has been traipsing around the dressage ring for 10 years futilely trying to trace a 20 meter circle, it’s pretty unlikely that you’re the one that’s going to be able to bring him to his “real” potential of Grand Prix. Know what you want – get what you want. If you get to be a better rider, and you want to compete at higher levels, when you get there, go buy a better horse. Don’t buy potential, unless you have an appetite for risk. 3. Make sure you like the horse. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve met clients that were bruised, bloodied, or otherwise injured because their new horse turned out to be a real pain in the butt. UNVERIFIED OBSERVATION – It is my impression that horses generally live up to their names. So, if you’re looking for a docile trail horse, try to avoid horses with names like “Rocket, ” “Lightning, ” or “Widowmaker. ” Given that many horses are living into their 30’s, keep in mind that you could be living with your purchase for a couple of decades, or more. The last thing in the world that you want to do is spend that time being bucked off, bitten, kicked, stopped on, spun off, struck, stuck (when he refuses to move), run over, pulled down the aisle – otherwise known as “barn skiing” – etc. , etc. Unless you just love being challenged, and have a thing for trying to tame wild beasts, get a nice horse: one that you like. Your veterinarian will like you for it, too.
INTRODUTION TO HORSES [CONTINUED] 4. Don’t expect to make a profit. I wish that I had the money to be an art collector. I don’t (and I also don’t collect things like Thomas Kinkade merchandise, which is another not so good financial investment). However, I have been told that if you’re going to collect art, you should buy something because you like it, and not because you’re thinking that you’re going to make money off it. Even if you don’t make money off an artwork, if you like it, at least you can hang it in your living room. Horses are like that. All sorts of people buy horses in hopes of turning a profit. They think that (or they’ve been told) that they’ll buy the horse, bring it to it’s full potential, and end up with a pot of gold. Don’t do it (unless you can also use $100 bills as bathroom tissue). There’s just too much uncertainty out there when it comes to horses. Horses get hurt, they stop enjoying what they’re doing, they get sick, or they fail to reach their magical potential for any number of reasons. And, occasionally, it even works out, which is the same reason that people keep buying lottery tickets. If you can afford to lose money, and you like to play the game, play the game. If you can’t: don’t. SERIOUS ASIDE: Did you know that your odds of winning the lottery are only slightly increased if you buy a lottery ticket? Think about it. Think of buying a horse as if you’re spending money on a vacation. Hopefully, you’ll have a good time. You’ll never see the money again. With any luck, it will have been worth it. 5. You can’t predict the future. Here’s a dirty little secret. No matter how much money you spend, no matter how many X-rays you take, no matter what you ultrasound, and no matter how many blood tests you run, you can only tell how the horse that you’re looking at is doing on that day, and that day only. No diagnostic test can predict the future (in the 1990’s, I did one study on navicular bone X-rays, and another one on flexion tests, and even demonstrated that). If you like the horse for how he is, and who he is, then go ahead and take the plunge. But it’d be a shame if you avoided buying your next best friend because of a problem you thought that he might have, only to watch someone else have a great time with him because they didn’t share those same concerns.
INTRODUTION TO HORSES [CONTINUED] 6. Be very clear about what you’re paying for in the prepurchase exam, and why. Don’t get talked into paying for tests and examinations that aren’t going to get you any useful information. People regularly spend several thousand dollars doing prepurchase examinations on expensive horses, looking for “problems. ” However, the fact is that there is no test that can predict how a horse is going to be performing down the road. That’s right: no X-ray can tell you if a joint is going to become arthritic, no ultrasound can tell you if a tendon is going to bow, and no amount of conformation analysis can tell you if a horse can jump successfully for years. It’s OK if you want to pay for a bunch of stuff. Maybe you’re worried. Maybe you’re thinking about resale, and want something to prove how the horse looked when you bought him (NOTE: at this point, please go immediately and review rule #4). Maybe you’re looking for leverage to lower the purchase price. But before you pay for a bunch of stuff, make sure you understand exactly what it is that you are being asked to pay for. It will save you time, money, and angst.
INTRODUTION TO HORSES [CONTINUED] 7. Make sure that the deal is transparent. It amazes me that people will make a huge purchase (like a horse) and not insistent on some sort of transparency in the deal. About 35 years ago, I remember reading about a yearling Thoroughbred colt that sold for $1. 5 million dollars. That was a LOT of money to pay for a horse (heck, it still is, but you know what I mean). And, as it turned out, the owners of the horse got $700, 000. 00, with the four agents involved splitting $800, 000. Big scandal. And it happens more often than you might think. If someone is representing you in the purchase of the horse, make sure that you get a sales agreement, in writing, signed by the buyer, the seller, and any agents that are involved. Here’s a link to some horse sales legal forms. You don’t want you’re $10, 000. 00 horse to actually cost you $25, 000. 00 just because somebody knew somebody, and happened to be in the right place, at the right time. Cover yourself. Heck, even a dog can shake hands. So there. Find a horse. Ride the horse. By all means, get a veterinarian to look at the horse before you buy him; check out my article on prepurchase exams. But keep your wits about you, and don’t get caught up in the process. If the horse you’re looking at doesn’t work out, don’t worry, there’s another one coming along right behind him. Remember, no matter what the discipline, they name a “Horse of the Year” every single year.
RIDING ETIQUETTE AND TYPES OF RIDING Respect the rights of others, including private property owners and all recreational trail users, campers and others so they can enjoy their recreational activities undisturbed Travel responsibly on designated roads, trails and areas Educate yourself prior to your trip by obtaining travel maps and regulations from public agencies, planning, taking horseback riding skills classes and knowing how to properly manage your horse. Avoid sensitive areas such as meadows, lakeshores, wetlands and streams. Stay on designated routes. Do your part by modeling appropriate behavior, leaving the area better than you found it, properly disposing of waste, minimizing the use of fire, avoiding the spread of invasive species and restoring degraded areas. Endurance: In endurance riding, horses and riders have an opportunity to show off their amazing fitness skills. Saddleseat: While saddleseat is sometimes considered a form of English riding, it’s a unique discipline that deserves its own category Racing: One of the most thrilling disciplines, horse racing is not for the faint of heart. Western: If you’ve ever watched a John Wayne movie, you’ve witnessed the western style of riding. Just like English, western riding also offers numerous different disciplines. With subdisciplines like western pleasure, reining, cutting, and barrel racing, western riding is anything but boring. English: No, this time “English” does not mean British, although that is where this style of riding originated. Most people might associate the term “English riding” with Mr. Darcy riding across the countryside or perhaps even a group of riders galloping after the hounds in an exciting foxhunt.
CARING FOR HORSES Nutritional Needs A horse’s digestive system is made to process large quantities of grass, which is high in fiber and water. The basic diet for most horses should be grass and good quality hay, free of dust and mold. In most cases, plenty of fresh, clean, unfrozen water should be available at all times, even if the horse only drinks once or twice a day Vaccinations and Deworming All horses need vaccinations and most need regular deworming. The specifics should be discussed with an equine veterinarian. Every horse should be protected against tetanus. Other vaccines are routinely given for Eastern and Western equine encephalomyelitis, equine influenza, rhinopneumonitis (equine herpes) and rabies. Vaccines for West Nile Virus are also available. Ask your veterinarian if other vaccines are appropriate for your horse. Worms can cause weight loss, poor coat, and colic, which can be deadly. It is best to have your veterinarian test and deworm your horse, or advise you on what to use and when. More important than treating worms is minimizing the horse’s exposure to parasites. Proper management entails not putting too many horses on too little land, rotating pastures if possible, and removing feces regularly Housing, Rest and Exercise Contrary to common thought, straight stalls are not necessarily worse than box stalls if the horses are together, and spend most of their day outside. Horses isolated in box stalls can develop behavioral problems from lack of companionship, exercise and mental stimulation. Whenever possible, horses should be outside with other horses every day. Extreme Weather Precautions Unless it is very wet and windy, horses tolerate cold much better than heat and humidity. If they can’t sweat, they can’t get rid of heat buildup in their bodies. If the sum of the temperature in degrees Fahrenheit and the relative humidity in percentage is over 130, you should be cautious about exercising your horse. If it is over 150, you should probably rest in the shade, and if it is over 180, most horses should not work at all. Hoof Care Hooves should be trimmed every six to eight weeks for horses whose feet do not get adequate natural wear. Despite tradition, most horses don't need shoes if their hooves are given the opportunity to strengthen naturally. In fact, some hoof problems are directly related to shoeing. However, changes should not be made suddenly or without expert guidance. Finding a veterinarian or farrier willing to discuss all the options may be hard, but worthwhile. Teeth Horses’ teeth grow continuously. Uneven wear can lead to sharp points and edges that cause pain and difficulty chewing. A horse’s teeth should be checked once or twice a year and “floated” (to make them smoother) by a veterinarian or well-trained equine dentist as needed. Dental problems, from painful points to rotting teeth, may cause difficulty chewing or “quidding, ” which occurs when food falls out of the mouth. Other signs of dental disease may include foul breath, undigested hay in the stools or discomfort from the bit or noseband. Dental disease can lead to choke, colic and weight loss.
ALL MAJOR HORSE BREEDS 2 PER SLIDE + PIC OF HORSE The Missouri fox trotter was developed in the Ozark Mountains in the early 1800 s. Breeders mixed Arabian horses, Morgan horses, Tennessee walking horses and other breeds from the neighboring states of Kentucky, Illinois, Tennessee and Arkansas. The breed is known for the gait that gives it its name, resulting in a smooth, surefooted and comfortable ride. Andalusian horse This ancient breed, the Andalusian horse is mentioned in Homer's "The Iliad, " and there are even cave paintings from 20, 000 years ago that depict Andalusian-like steeds. They are exceptionally agile horses with physical capabilities that make them well-suited for dressage competition, an equestrian sport that displays the highest level of horse training. Most Andalusian horses are gray, but sometimes are found in other colors.
ALL MAJOR HORSE BREEDS 2 PER SLIDE + PIC OF HORSE Morgan horses can be traced back to a horse named Figure who lived in 18 th-century Vermont with owner Justin Morgan. Figure was likely a mix of Arabian and Thoroughbred horses, and perhaps some other breeds. He combined strength and endurance with a calm demeanor and intelligence, a desirable mix of traits that was passed on to his descendants. Tennessee walking horse Like the Missouri fox trotter, the Tennessee walking horse was developed in America during the 19 th century. The breed is defined by the its unique "running walk" gait that is both fast and smooth. Although appreciated by pleasure riders, Tennessee walking horses are often seen in competition as well.
ALL MAJOR HORSE BREEDS 2 PER SLIDE + PIC OF HORSE APPALOOSA HORSE The history of the Appaloosa is tied closely to the Nez Perce tribe of Native Americans. Horses imported from Mexico reached the Nez Perce people, who lived in what is now Washington, Oregon and Idaho, in the 18 th century. The Nez Perce grew into excellent horse breeders, creatingstrong, intelligent horses with leopard spots. These were the first Appaloosas. thoroughbred The term "thoroughbred" sometimes is used as a synonym for "purebred, " but thoroughbreds are in fact a specific breed of horse. Extremely athletic animals, thoroughbreds are best known for theirubiquitousness in the sport of horse racing. Their speed and stamina has made them popular in other equestrian sports as well.
ALL MAJOR HORSE BREEDS 2 PER SLIDE + PIC OF HORSE Miniature horses have been around for hundreds of years, but their presence and development in the United States is relatively recent. The breed came to the States in the 1930 s and for a few decades were used for working in coal mines. In the 1970 s, registries for miniature horses began to establish them as a unique breed. American paint horses are known for and identified by their various pinto colorings and markings. The terms "paint" and "pinto" often are used interchangeably, but in fact, "paint" is a specific breed type, while "pinto" describes a type of color pattern that can occur in different breeds. Paint horses are regarded for their amiable personalities and intelligence.
ALL MAJOR HORSE BREEDS 2 PER SLIDE + PIC OF HORSE Quarter horses are noticeably muscular horsesthat one often can find at rodeos or working on ranches. They're also known for speed and are popular as race horses. It's the most popular horse breed in the United States, with more than five million registered with the American Quarter Horse Association. ARABIAN HORSE The purebred Arabian horse is striking. An Arabian's most identifiable characteristics are its finely chiseled head, dished face, long arching neck and high tail carriage. Its entire appearance exudes energy, intelligence, courage and nobility. Every time an Arabian moves in its famous "floating trot, " he announces to the world his proud, graceful nature
WHY YOU SHOULD GET A HORSE Horses teach a sense of responsibility. Learning how to care for a living, breathing, complex animal requires dedication and a solid sense of responsibility. You don't have to own a horse to experience this. Most lessons involve getting the horse ready and untacking afterwards. Riders are expected to dress appropriately, show up on time, and take good care of the lesson horses and equipment. As she earns the respect of those around her and learns new skills, your child will quickly learn that being responsible pays off. It takes commitment. How many times do kids start piano lessons only to let them fizzle out after a year or so? How often do we see a child obsessed with karate in 3 rd grade, but hate it by 4 th? Horseback riding takes commitment, and there's nothing better than committing to lessons to help your child learn the value of sticking with something, working hard, and experiencing positive reinforcement. Riding encourages a healthy sense of pride. Horse enthusiasts will tell you that nothing feels better than mastering a challenging riding skill, whether it's getting your horse to stop on command at your first lesson, learning how to change diagonals, jumping a full course, or achieving a goal in the show ring. Being able to successfully communicate with a 1, 000 -pound animal is a major confidence booster for riders of all levels. Learning to ride well takes focus. Ever notice when you focus on a single complicated task, you can't worry about anything else? Horseback riding can do that for you! A rider must use his brain and body to control and communicate with his horse. For a tween or teen, riding is one time when your daughter can't worry about what her friend said at school that day, or if she'll get asked to the dance. During a ride, the mind has a break from other worries, and that's a major anxiety-buster that can help your child develop lifelong emotional health.
WHY YOU SHOULD GET A HORSE Riding requires athletic ability. Any experienced equestrian will gladly explain that you don't "just sit there. ” Riding takes strength and endurance. My entire body has been sore after countlessons. You use your legs, core, arms, and back when you're in the saddle. Riding is a full-body workout, and soon your child will feel empowered, strong, and confident in his or her body. The stable can provide a healthy atmosphere. It's well worth the effort to find a riding center where you and your child feel comfortable. Fellow riders can provide a tight-knit group of friends who support each other away from the drama and stress of a school environment. I think the barn can be one of the most positive social environments available, connecting people of all ages who share a passion and love for horses. Sure, there may be competition involved, but isn't that a part of any sport, and of life in general? The riding arena serves as a safe place to learn about healthy competition. It's a source of immediate happiness. There can't be many mood-boosters out there as powerful and medication-free as a rigorous riding session. Your tween might go into a lesson feeling down or edgy, but I bet more often or not, she will get off the horse feeling calmer and happier. Riding is a special way to spend time together. This is a major bonus to those of us adults who already ride or who have always wanted to ride. If your son or daughter is interested, riding is a fantastic way to spend time together. Any age and any level can ride together given the right environment. You'll have a pal to join you for horse shows, equine volunteer work, or fairs and festivals. I'm already dreaming about all the horse-related fun I will share with my daughter in the future.
WHY YOU SHOULD GET A HORSE It's a lifelong skill. Unlike some sports that only capture a child's interest for a season or two, or end with high school graduation, riding never has to stop. I rode as a young girl, and now I'm riding again as a grown-up in my 30's. Where I ride, there are children up to adults in their 60's and 70's taking lessons and showing. You can always improve your skills, no matter your age. Most importantly, I don't think riding ever stops being fun. Working towards a goal is a key factor in the happiness equation. We all want our kids to be happy, don't we? Whether your child's dream is to own a horse, run barrels, jump fences, master dressage principles, or anything else the horse world has to offer, working towards a goal is an essential element to happiness. The beauty of horses is that when a rider achieves one goal, success is celebrated, but there's always another goal to strive for next.
FUNNY HORSE PICS NEXT SLIDE
CREDITS http: //www. treadlightly. org/tread-lightlys-tips-for-responsible-horsebackriding/? gclid=CK 2 A_6 DQ_c 4 CFUI 8 g. Qod. ZRk. Ba. Q http: //thehorseridingsite. com/horse-riding-styles https: //www. google. com/webhp? sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=RIDING http: //www. aspca. org/pet-care/horse-care https: //www. google. com/search? q=horses&safe=strict&espv=2&biw=1280&bih=923&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X &ved=0 ah. UKEwi. Iz. K-X 1_3 OAh. WM 6 CY https: //mom. me/pets/19090 -most-popular-horse-breeds/item/missouri-fox-trotter-horse/
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