In reality, however, the average weight of a horse is dependent upon the breed to which it belongs and whether it is a stallion, a gelding, or a mare. Heavy draft breeds may have an average weight of more than 2,200 pounds for a stallion or gelding and more than 1,800 pounds for mares.
On the other end of the spectrum, many pony breeds may have stallions that average about 800 pounds, geldings that average about 900 pounds, and mares that average about 600 pounds.
Then there are the miniature horse breeds, where the weight of the horse may be comparable to the weight of a large dog.
How to Determine the Weight of a Horse
A scale will always be the most accurate method of determine the weight of an individual horse. The only problem is that the scales which are large enough to weigh the bigger horse breeds may not be available in every community. Even the local veterinarian may not own a scale that is large enough to properly weigh a Clydesdale, Shire, or other heavy draft breed.
Some local businesses may provide large-item weighing services that could be used to weigh a horse. One local method is to trailer the horse and take it to a local landfill or large recycling center. The attendant can weigh the trailer with the horse inside. Then the horse is unloaded in a safe area and the trailer is weighed again.
This service may be free or a small fee may be charged, but it is more accurate than other weight-determining options that are currently available.
Weigh tapes are sometimes used to determine the weight of an individual horse as well. These tapes tend to be double-sided. One side is designed for the pony breeds and the other is designed for the horse breeds.
You can tell if your horse is classified as a pony breed if it stands 14.2 hands high or less. Some stallions in pony breeds may exceed the height threshold. In that circumstance, the other side of the tape should be used.
Weigh tapes are about 90% accurate, but they are much more convenient than trying to trailer a horse to a scale or the veterinarian’s office to get an accurate weight. To obtain the most accurate measurement, you will want to make sue the horse being weighed is on ground that is firm and level. The horse should be relaxed, but standing square.
Then take the tape and have it come around the low withers, with the correct side of the tape facing you. Then draw the tape so it comes close to the front legs, at a slight angle from the top of the withers, so that it is firm against the horse, but not digging into the hide.
You may be required to take the measurement and input it into a manufacturer’s formula to determine the weight of the horse. You may also be able to read the weight of the horse directly from the tape.
It may take several measurements over a period of 30-60 days to determine the average weight of an individual horse. Then that weight average can be compared to the breed weight average as a marker to determine the possible health status of the horse. Think of the weight measurement as a body mass index reading, but for horses.
\n\nReposting @eponahorses:
— The Horse Barn Store (@Thehorsebarn2) December 1, 2017
My beautiful autumn horse.⠀#horsesoninstagram #horses pic.twitter.com/wk1mb35WlN
Is There Another Way to Determine the Weight of a Horse?
If you don’t mind doing a little math, then you can create a fairly accurate weight by taking the girth of the horse and the height of the horse and then using a specific formula. You will then need to convert the wait from kg to lbs, depending on what specific measurement you’re wanting to have.
You will need to take the girth measurement first. This follows the same measurement process as the weigh tape method of determining weight. Make sure that you note the measurement in centimeters so it works with the following formula.
You will then need to take a measurement from the shoulder to the point of the hindquarters. The measurement must follow the exact contours of the body for this measurement method to provide an accurate weight representation.
Once the measurements in centimeters have been obtained, you can use the following steps to determine the weight of the horse.
Step #1: Take the girth measurement in centimeters and double it.
Step #2: Then take that result and multiply it by the length measurement in centimeters.
Step #3: Divide the (Girth x 2) x Length result and divide it by 11,887.
Step #4: Convert kilograms into pounds if desired. One kilogram is equal to 2.205 pounds.
By following those steps, you can take exact measurements to reliably determine what the weight of your horse happens to be. From there, you can then match your weight measurement to the average weights that are applied to the specific breed of horse you have just measured.
\n\nHow cute is my moms horse wtf i love him pic.twitter.com/irFa9QCf9I
— Liv (@bayy__z) December 1, 2017
What Are the Average Weights to Expect?
Pony breeds tend to weigh the least, with the smallest horses weighing around 440 pounds. Stallions in the pony breeds that come close to the maximum height requirements may have an average weight of about 880 pounds.
Polo ponies are slightly heavier. Their average weight begins around 880 pounds and some stallions in the larger breeds in this category may weigh up to 1,100 pounds.
Arabian horses are put into their own category for classification since some Arabians may qualify as ponies and others may be as tall as some cobs or light draft horses. The average weight range for an Arabian is between 900-1,100 pounds.
For the other breeds, including hunters, light draft, and heavy draft horses, there is a direct correlation to the height of the horse and how much it weighs. A difference in height of just 0.1 hands can be enough to increase the average expected weight of the horse by over 100 pounds.
Although there are several heavy draft horses that have exceeded 20 hands high and have weighed close to 3,000 pounds, the title of the heaviest horse ever documented belongs to a Shire gelding that was foaled in 1846. Living in Bedfordshire, England, the horse was named Sampson and was owned by Thomas Cleaver. At the age of 4, Sampson was measured at 21.25 hands high, which meant he stood over 7 feet tall at the withers.
Cleaver renamed Sampson as Mammoth after that level of growth. His peak weight was believed to be over 3,300 pounds.
The average weight of a horse depends on the individual, the breed, and the genetic profile of the horse. By taking each factor into account, it becomes possible to gain insights into the current and future health of the animal.
]]>The answer to that question depends on the breed of horse being discussed. Some breeds have extremely long lifespans, exceeding 30 years. Other breeds have relatively short lifespans, averaging less than 20 years.
The amount of veterinary care, exercise, and exposure to difficult weather conditions can affect the lifespan of a horse as well.
In general terms, the confident average is about 25 years, as that fits in-between the 20- to 30-year span that can be found in most breeds. For horses that receive good care and aren’t worked or ridden hard, they have a greater chance of reaching the upper end of the average lifespan.
What Are the Horse Breeds That Live the Longest?
In general terms, lighter and smaller horses typically live longer than horses that are heavier and taller. There are always exceptions to this general rule, but ponies and light draft horses trend toward the 30-year mark on the average lifespan. Heavy draft horses, such as a Shire, trend toward the 20-year mark on the average life span.
That means the best option for potential owners or handlers is to choose the breed of horse that is right for you. Any horse has the potential to be long-lived if it is given a loving home and proper care.
Who Is the Oldest Horse in History?
The oldest horse ever documented comes from the 18th century. His name was Old Billy and he was a British Barge Horse. He was foaled in 1760 and died in 1822, meaning he made it to the ripe old age of 62. His remains are kept at the Manchester Museum to commemorate his long life.
Today, it is not unusual to see several horses reach their 40s or 50s thanks to the advances in medical care that are received. A horse named Sugar Puff lived to the age of 56, passing away in 2007. Sugar Puff was a Shetland cross pony and was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records.
An Irish pony named Jesse was documented by the Belfast Telegraph as reaching the age of 49. A pony in the United States named Ted E. Bear is often cited by writers as living to the age of 55.
Dr. Bob Wright, veterinary scientist for the Ontario Ministry of Food and Agriculture, lists four horses or ponies that have gone beyond the 50-year-old age barrier as well, including a Welsh pony that lived to the age of 66 – though the latter pony’s age has not been independently verified.
\n\nPolice looking for whoever shot and killed this Palomino while it was grazing in a pasture over the weekend near Oceanway. Horse was valued at $50,000. pic.twitter.com/kiv4j5x95I
— Frank Volpicella (@WJXTFrankV) November 13, 2017
How Can You Tell the Age of a Horse?
There is no specific method that can be used to determine the exact age of a horse. Unless there are passports, papers, or some other form of registration document that can verify the information for an individual horse, exact ages are often lost.
It is possible to determine an estimated age for a horse by examining their teeth. As the horse gets older, it becomes more difficult to pinpoint an accurate age range using the teeth method. It is usually reserved for younger horses only.
To determine the age of a horse by their teeth, one must look at their 12 front incisors. The two central pairs of teeth, upper and lower, are called the “nippers.” The “intermediates” are the four teeth that are next to the central pair, while the outer four teeth are referred to as “corners.”
Between the age of 4-5, there are canine teeth that can begin to appear between the 12 front incisors and the 24 back molars. Only stallions or geldings develop these teeth on a regular basis. Mares can develop them too, but it happens very rarely.
Then this generic comparison chart can be used to determine an approximate age for the horse being examined.
After the age of 5, judging the age of a horse on their teeth is open to interpretation. There can be varying levels of dovetail and wear and tear within the horse’s mouth. Older horses tend to have teeth that are taller and wider compared to younger horses, becoming more angular with every passing year.
Age estimates are usually somewhat accurate for horses that are 15 years old or younger. Because of the variability of tooth wear, it is difficult to pinpoint an age range for senior horses.
How to Prolong the Life of a Horse
The key to giving a horse the best possible chance at a long life is to give it good care, good feed, and good exercise. It is usually a health issue which causes a horse to lose its life prematurely. In many instances, a bout with colic will usually force a decision about whether or not a horse should be euthanized.
As horses age, their immune systems become weaker. It becomes difficult for their internal systems to fight off infections and illnesses. Senior horses can see a rapid degradation of health and run down quickly. If a horse’s teeth begin to wear out or go missing, older horses can start suffering from malnutrition issues as well, which hastens the speed of the physical degradation.
With good care, the health issues that have the greatest risk to the horse can be reduced. Senior horses that are active, working with children or beginners, succeed more often than not because they still have a definable purpose. A clean stall, being turned out regularly, and having a herd, or at least a friend, for a senior horse adds to their quality of life as well.
What is the average lifespan of a horse? It is only a marker for which owners can shoot toward when caring for their horses. In the United States, a 25+5 average spans most breeds, which provides the 20- to 30-year average that is often discussed. In Canada, The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture lists the average lifespan of a horse as being 28+5, so that means the average is 23-33 years.
The bottom line is this: lifespans are finite. We should enjoy whatever moments we are blessed to have with our horses and treat them with the respect they deserve. That way, every horse can enjoy the happiest life possible.
Strangles can also cause numerous abscesses to form in and around the head and neck area. Some horses may have these abscesses form in other places on their body as well. These abscesses can burst, creating a painful wound.
How to Tell if a Horse Has Strangles
The first symptoms of strangles that can be seen tend to be the swelling of the lymph nodes. Many horses will develop abscesses on their lymph nodes around the neck and head area. As the swelling worsens, the horse will begin to hack and cough more often. They may have difficulty swallowing as well, which puts them off their feed.
The swelling may be localized when a horse has strangles or it may affect their entire head and neck region.
A horse with strangles will also develop a fever, often as high as 106F. There is usually discharge that comes from the eyes and nose as strangles develops as well. It is this discharge that spreads the disease to other horses. The discharge comes from the lymph nodes draining pus or mucus being discharged from the nose and will contaminate everything from the feed trough to the pasture to the tack of the horse.
What Is Bastard Strangles?
Bastard strangles is a severe form of the disease that causes abscesses to appear in other parts of the horse’s body. When bastard strangles is presence, the lungs, abdomen, and even the brain may experience growths. These abscesses can rupture and that can cause serious life-threatening conditions for the horse that goes beyond airway swelling.
Horses of any age can contract either form of strangles. Horses that are younger and elderly horses tend to be at the highest levels of risk. Horses that have a compromised immune system can also struggle with this disease.
When both forms of strangles are evaluated, the mortality rate of this disease is about 8%. Horses that can avoid the problems of bastard strangles typically have a higher rate of recovery. Morbidity is very high with this disease and horses must be isolated to protect the rest of the herd. The isolation period for strangles, in most instances, can be up to 6 weeks to ensure the bacteria which cause the disease are not continuing to incubate.
\n\nAs many people like to travel with their #horses (especially in winter to ride indoors), Strangles and other diseases can be easily transmitted.
— sask vets (@saskvets) November 26, 2017
Vaccinating, #biosecurity and being aware of disease risks can prevent your horse from illness. pic.twitter.com/tUtbvwirnz
How to Treat Strangles in Horses
Because strangles is a bacterial infection, it can be treated with common antibiotics. If the horse is diagnosed with strangles before abscesses begin to form, then the condition is treated like a streptococcal infection in humans. Penicillin or derivative antibiotics are used, unless there is an allergy to the medicine. Alternative antibiotics can be prescribed to avoid the health issues of an allergy.
Once abscesses have begun to form, however, some veterinarians may recommend against using antibiotics as there is the possibility that it can spread through the lymphatic system to other parts of the body.
Should an exterior abscess burst, it is important to keep the wound clean and disinfected. Iodine and povidone solutions are used to clean out the wound. A syringe is often necessary to reach all areas and scrubbing around the wound to remove bacteria is helpful as well.
Some horses may also benefit from having a warm pack placed on their abscesses to help them mature with less pain.
The best way to treat strangles, however, is to vaccinate the horse as soon as possible. There are intramuscular and intranasal vaccines that are available through local veterinarians. Proactive disinfection of all equipment, stalls, tack, and buckets is necessary, especially if strangles is suspected.
It is also a best practice to have a designated quarantine area so that new horses can be placed in isolation for 3 weeks to observe the status of their health. Quarantined areas should have dedicated equipment to prevent transmissions to the rest of the herd. Veterinarians can screen new arrivals for strangles as well.
Good handwashing techniques by owners and handlers is a must as well. Humans that come into contact with the bacteria which causes strangles can pass it along to other horses through basic contact.
Flies can also pass strangles onto other horses. Place any gauze and materials used to clean the wounds or nasal discharge from the horse in sealed containers to prevent an unintended outbreak.
What Are the Complications of Strangles in Horses?
A majority of horses will come through a strangles infection without suffering any long-lasting effects and will fully recover. Horses that fully recover from strangles usually have full immunity from the disease for several years afterward.
Some horses can become a chronic carrier of strangles and must be kept away from other horses to avoid having the bacteria spread. In this instance, they should remain in isolation except for coming into contact with other horses who are carriers. About 1 in 10 horses that recover from strangles will become a chronic carrier of the bacteria.
With bastard strangles, several different health conditions can develop because of the presence of the abscesses or complications from them bursting. Pneumonia is the most common health issue that develops with bastard strangles. Some horses may experience heart health issues. The guttural pouch may also begin filling with pus and become very painful for the horse.
It usually takes about 3 weeks for a horse to fully recover from strangles.
\n\nThis is Frosty horse i saved from the slaughter truck this past week. hes in quarantine with strangles. pic.twitter.com/O3qO7zjqtd
— Jessica (@Jessica_n_horse) February 13, 2016
Can Humans Catch Strangles?
Because strangles is caused by a streptococcus bacterium, it is possible for humans to contract an infection when working closely with an infected horse. Avoiding any contact with nasal or abscess discharge will prevent the infection from spreading. Handlers who do come into contact with infectious discharge should avoid having it come around the areas of their eyes, mouth, or nose.
The best way to prevent horse-to-human transmission is to wear disposable gloves while working with an infected horse. Avoid touching the face of an infected horse at all times, even with gloves and other personal protective equipment on. Once finished, always wash hands thoroughly.
Most outbreaks of strangles are required to be reported because of its infectious nature. It is a serious disease and should be treated as such. Although 92% of horses that develop strangles will recover from the disease, the risks go down with early intervention and proactive monitoring. That is why it is so important to know what strangles is in horses.
What Is the Most Important Tack?
For most horses, the saddle is the most important tack item that is owned. The saddle provides a seat for the rider. It will often be fastened to the horse by using a cinch or a girth, depending if English or Western riding is desired. The cinch or girth is a wide strap that goes around the horse, behind the forelegs, and it secures the saddle tightly to the back of the horse.
A saddle blanket will usually go on the horse before the saddle is placed. The blanket helps to prevent skin injuries from the natural movement the saddle tends to have when a rider is in place. Because the blanket is usually considered an accessory, it is treated as a tack item as well.
Western saddles might also have a back cinch or flank, which is a second strap that secures the saddle to the horse.
English and Western saddles are slightly different in design, but there are also different saddles that are designed to complete specific tasks. Racing saddles, side saddles, and endurance saddles are all different options.
Accessories for a saddle that would also be considered tack, but are optional, include the following.
Many saddles include stirrups, which provide support to the feet of the rider while they are in the saddle. It is often treated as safety equipment, but the feet of the rider can also get caught in the stirrup and create a risk for dragging should they fall out of the saddle. Special boots can be worn and safety bars added to the saddle to prevent this from happening.
Headgear Tack for Horses
Headgear tack for horses can come in a variety of styles and options. Each tends to be added for a specific task. Multiple headgear tack can be worn simultaneously and some tack is designed to be worn full-time by the horse.
The halter is the most common form of headgear tack. Sometimes called a collar or headstall, it has a noseband and head piece that buckles around the head of the horse. When properly secured, the halter allows the horse to be tied or led. A lead rope can be attached to the halter as well and this tack accessory comes in various lengths to complete specific tasks, such as picketing.
Stallions may require a chain to be attached to their lead rope or halter to increase handler control while they are being led.
Bridles are another common tack option for horses. They are very similar to bridles, but with one key difference: bridles have a bit attached, which lead to reins that riders use to help provide added control while in the saddle. The type of riding that is preferred will dictate which type of bridle is used with the horse.
English bridles have a noseband that allows the reins to be bucked to each other. They are designed to be simple and straightforward in use, so few adornments are usually added.
Western bridles do not generally have a noseband. They tend to give the rider split reins or closed reins. Different silver adornments are added to this tack, often a reflection of the personality of the rider, the horse, or both.
Double bridles are usually seen in English riding and they are unique because they have a snaffle and a curb instead of a single bit. This gives the rider an additional level of control while in the saddle.
Hackamore bridles are bitless and rely on a heavier noseband for control. These are used when working with senior horses or horses that have dental health issues. They can also be used to train younger horses the basics of riding. Bitless bridles are seen in English and Western riding.
\n\nA cowboy pets his horse near Spur, Texas, 1939.
— Traces of Texas (@TracesofTexas) December 4, 2017
Yup. Russell Lee. pic.twitter.com/acu3LmWayH
Incorporating Bits into the Horse Tack
Bits are placed into the mouth of the horse and connect to the headstall of the bridle being worn. There are several different types of bits available and each is used for a specific type of training or riding.
Although some horses may like to chew on their bits, the tack is designed to sit behind the front teeth of the horse, but in front of the molars. This location is called the “bars” of the mouth. For a bit to function properly, it must not cause discomfort for the horse or impact their teeth in any way. Because of this, it is not unusual for a horse to have a custom bit.
There are several hundred different types of bits that are available through tack stores today, but most use one of four common styles.
Because the bit is the piece of tack that provides the most rider control, there are some bits that are specifically designed to provide discomfort or even pain to “get the horse to listen.” These bits, which may be deemed to be illegal, may contain bike chain components, spiked bars, chain links, and twisted wires.
Any bit that is used improperly or in a manner that is unsafe, however, offers the potential of abuse.
Are Reins Considered Horse Tack?
The other common component of horse tack that is often used is the reins. Reins are usually leather straps, but could be synthetic materials or even rope. They extend from the outer portion of the bit or the bridle, around the head of the horse, and into the hands of the rider. It is how commands are given to the horse while riding.
Pulling on the reins can steer the horse in a specific direction, ask the horse to speed up, or tell the horse to stop. The reins pull the head of the horse to one side, which tells the horse the direction or the command that is being issued.
A harness is part of this tack group because it extends the reins over the back of the horse so other equipment can be pulled by the horse. A coach, a wagon, or even farm equipment requires a harness that is attached to the bridle or bit. The reins are then attached to the harness.
Reins can also be attached to halters so a horse can be guided or lead through a specific task.
Pairs of horses can be controlled with this combination of tack in multiple groups. Fours, sixes, and eights are all possible, a description which refers to the number of reins that connect to pairs of horses instead of individual horses.
One common mistake that is seen with the reins is that they are used to tie the horse. Reins are a thin material and will break easily, especially if the leather has been exposed to weather elements. If the horse is tied incorrectly with the reins, the bit can become quite painful for the horse as well. That is why a rope should always be used.
Any piece of equipment that is used with a horse is considered tack. Accessories that are used with that equipment are also tack. For that reason, it is usually better to reference specific tack items, such as the saddle, when speaking about the equipment instead of using the generic term. Otherwise, there can be a lot of confusion about what is being discussed.
]]>It begins when the hypothalamic neurons begin to degenerate. This causes them to produce lower levels of dopamine, which begins to eliminate the restraints that are placed on pituitary secretion.
Both humans and canines can experience Cushing’s disease as well. It is not an infectious disease. To distinguish the equine version of Cushing’s from the canine and human versions, it is often diagnosed today as PPID, which stands for “pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction. How PPID works in horses is actually closer to Parkinson’s disease in humans than the disease to which each shares a name.
In horses, Cushing’s disease is usually found in mature horses that are at least 7 years old, but it can affect any horse at any age. Although there are not specific breeds that have a higher risk of suffering from an adenoma, pony breeds do tend to have more cases of Cushing’s disease than other breeds.
What Are the Symptoms of Cushing’s Disease in Horses?
According to Equus Magazine, pituitary dysfunction may affect elderly horses at a high rate. In a survey of 218 elderly horse owners, 3 out of 10 horses displayed the symptoms of Cushing’s disease, but only 8% of the horses had received a formal diagnosis.
A 2003 Tufts University study of nearly 500 horses above the age of 20 found that Cushing’s disease was the most common specific health diagnosis shared by the group.
The symptoms of Cushing’s disease can be slow to develop. They can also be unique to the individual horse, depending on the excessive load of hormones being produced. Once an adenoma is present, however, the signs and symptoms of the disease are progressive.
These are the most common symptoms that horses experience when the adenoma begins to grow on the pituitary gland.
• Changes in Body Shape. Horses with Cushing’s disease tend to develop large deposits of fat along their mane. Many will develop a pot-belly shape over time. It is common for muscle wasting to occur as well, but this may happen at any point of the body instead of one specific spot on the horse.
• Changes to the Coat. Horses that have an adenoma will experience coat changes. The hairs become longer and the coat becomes thicker. The horse may experience year-long shedding, especially in warmer climates. This typically makes the horse appear to be shaggy and some horses may begin to resemble Curly horses.
• Excessive Thirst. Horses with Cushing’s disease tend to experience thirst frequently. They will head to the water trough or their water access point numerous times throughout the day. Because they are drinking an excessive amount of water, horses with this health issue tend to experience excessive urination as well.
\n\nOur beautiful and talented registered Rocky Mountain mare, KB is for adoption.
— GerdasEquineRescue (@GerdasEquineRes) November 27, 2017
Trustworthy trail horse despite she can only see light/darkness. 19 yrs, 14.3HH also drives. pic.twitter.com/reehZCrwJM
Additional symptoms of Cushing’s disease may include weight loss, inflammation of the hoof structures, and ulcers in the mouth. Horses with this disease are also more prone to infection and take longer to heal. Owners or handlers may see cuts, scrapes, or bruises on the horse that take longer to heal compared to other horses in the herd.
Sporting horses with Cushing’s disease may experience a decreased level of athletic performance. Some horses may experience increased sweating because of the adenoma. Changes to the reproductive cycle may occur in mares and stallions with Cushing’s have been known to become infertile. Certain neurological deficits may develop and, over time, blindness may occur.
How is Cushing’s Disease Diagnosed?
Although the symptoms of Cushing’s disease are indicative of the presence of an adenoma, there are other health issues that can cause similar symptoms in horses. If Cushing’s disease is suspected, a veterinarian must example the horse and complete a full blood profile to rule out any other potential cause. This includes a complete blood count and summary of serum chemistry.
Once completed, another set of blood tests can help to formally diagnose the disease and begin the creation of a treatment plan for the horse. These tests may include a resting ACTH blood test. A TRH Stimulation Test may also be performed.
How Is Cushing’s Disease Treated in Horses?
No definitive treatment current exists for Cushing’s disease in horses, but it can be controlled effectively. One of the most common treatments is a medication called Pergolide, which is given to the horse orally in doses of up to 5mg. Bromocriptine is another medication commonly given to horses if Pergolide does not work. Cyproheptadine is a third prescription option and it was the most common treatment until Pergolide was developed.
Some horses may require two or all three of these medications to stabilize their hormone levels.
Additional management practices must be included with a Cushing’s treatment plan as well. Horses with this disease are very prone to laminitis, so there must be regular visits to a professional farrier to maintain hoof health. Horses with this condition should have limited access to a lush pasture as well to avoid dietary issues.
Cushing’s disease reduces the effectiveness of a horse’s immune system, even when being treated. Any wounds the horse suffers, including minor scrapes and scratches, must be properly cleaned immediately.
Some veterinarians may recommend certain supplements or specific ingredients to benefit the health of the horse too. Antioxidants are a common item that is recommended, especially plant adaptogens, as they support the immune system and can help the horse be able to fight oxidative stress.
These supplements can also be useful in the management of Cushing’s disease in horses.
• Omega-3s. These healthy fats can help the horse’s internal systems provide a normal response to inflammation.
• Chaste Berries. This supplement provides an assist to the endocrine functionality of the horse.
• Amino Acids. Supplements like threonine, methionine, and lysine help to support the development of lean muscle mass for the horse.
Some horses may also benefit from selenium being added to their feed. They normally obtain the selenium they need from foraging. It prevents cellular damage, but if given in high doses, it can be toxic. Before adding this supplement, it is necessary to test soil and forage selenium levels and to have it measured in the bloodwork of the horse.
Before giving any horse a supplement, it is important to discuss the overall treatment plan for Cushing’s disease with a veterinarian. Certain supplements may interfere with the functionality of prescription medication.
\n\nMy dog and horse are best friends.#horse #horsefrendship pic.twitter.com/fK7PG2tMwY
— Barron horse lover (@BarronHorse) November 17, 2017
Dietary Needs of a Horse with Cushing’s Disease
Horses with Cushing’s disease, especially elderly horses, have many special needs that must be met. Routine activities must include vaccinations, dental health, daily hoof care, and deworming. Other preventative procedures may be necessary as well, depending upon the overall health and medical history of the horse.
Horses with Cushing’s disease tend to have specific dietary needs that must be met as part of the preventative routine. Horses with an adenoma may have metabolism and insulin issues that are similar to diabetes mellitus. For that reason, traditional grains and horse treats may be restricted from the diet of the horse. Even pasture may be restricted in some instances. A diet that is high in starch and sugar could negatively impact the health of the horse.
Alternative feed options may include beet pulp that is free from molasses, pellets, or a low-carb feed that is specifically made for senior horses. Avoid alfalfa and clover and stick with grass hays since they contain lower levels of carbohydrates.
Horses with Cushing’s often need a specific high fiber, low sugar feed. Mineral and vitamin supplements are often added to this type of feed, so speak with a veterinarian about what will benefit the horse specifically. Some horses may need fats added to their recommended feed for weight support.
Providing a Good Life to a Horse with Cushing’s Disease
Simple things can make life better for horses with Cushing’s disease. One of the easiest things that owners or handlers can do is keep the coat of the horse trimmed. This will prevent the horse from overheating in the warmer months and can prevent cases of rain rot from happening in humid climates.
Parasite control is a must for the ongoing treatment plan as well. Horses with PPID are extremely prone to internal parasites. Periodic fecal egg counts and an individualized deworming program are usually part of the treatment process.
A full panel of routine bloodwork is usually part of the treatment plan too. That allows the medical history of the horse to have reference values so that abnormal findings can be recognized and treated immediately.
Cushing’s disease in horses may not have a cure, but it can be effectively managed. With a little time and work, even horses with this diagnosis can still live fulfilling lives.
]]>It didn’t matter what season the race happened to be. You still “dressed to the nines” whenever you went to a racing event.
Over the past few years, however, choosing what to wear to a horse race has become a less formal experience. The rules of fashion are no longer as important as they used to be. Instead of wearing black slacks, for example, gentlemen can get away with wearing black denim jeans. For the ladies, a knee-length sundress works just as well as the classic little black dress – and shorter skirts are often looked at as inviting fashion at a modern race as well.
There are still some general rules that you’ll want to follow if you’re debating what should be worn to the next horse race you intend to attend.
Rule #1: Decorum
There is still an attitude of modesty that is expected when attending a horse race. For women, that means avoiding clothing options that are strapless or would leave little to the imagination of others. It is recommended to avoid tight clothing because of the need to move about while at the race, but to avoid clothing items that are too loose as well to avoid getting caught on something.
For gentleman, think business formal, but with a casual twist. Coat and tie are acceptable. Some blazers can pass muster if paired with a colorful dress shirt that is top-buttoned. Some events may overlook casual pants or khakis, but a good rule of thumb is to look for a comfortable pair of slacks that come to the top of the shoe.
Rule #2: Headpieces
The rules for what headpieces to wear depend on the actual venue where the race is being held. If you were to attend the Royal Ascot in Australia, for example, you would be required to wear a headpiece that was a minimum of 10 centimeters in width. At the Kentucky Derby, there are few hat requirements and they can be decorated with a number of different items to express personal creativity.
For the guys, a fedora is an alternative option if a top hat or bowler is not preferred. Most hats for gentlemen are solid in color, though some ribbon, striping, and other minor decorative items can sometimes be found.
Rule #3: Shoes
Dressing rules for shoes are dependent on the location of the horse race as well. Spring heels or sandals are often recommended for women, while the standard polished dress shoe is often recommended for men. Many venues invite patrons to wander the grounds, so a comfortable pair of flats for the ladies is something worth bringing along if the venue would allow it.
Rule #4: Clothing Patterns
There are no set standards for what your clothing actually looks like, but there are some traditional choices that are worth reviewing. For a horse race in the spring, think about options that include pastel colors, florals, and even lace. The weather can be unpredictable in the early months of the year, so consider dressing in layers or bringing an alternative outfit so you can be comfortable during the day.
If you are attending an autumn horse race, then earth tones tend to be the better option. Look for wool options to provide warmth. Sleek dresses with navy blue or black are often popular. Paisley and argyle are potential options to think about incorporating into your race-day fashion as well.
Outfits that feature mostly white or mostly dark colors are always a good option to consider when attending a horse race.
\n\nAt the Del Mar Horse Race earlier in SD. On our grown woman in fancy hats style👒🐎😌 pic.twitter.com/NMf1sgxqX3
— Brittany Nechell ♥ (@MsSocialite_89) July 17, 2016
Rule #5: Jewelry
“Since the hat is the focus of… fashion, there’s not much need for large, statement jewelry. Let your hat be the attention grabber as your primary accessory and keep the jewelry simple.” That is the advice from the Kentucky Derby.
One aspect to your jewelry on race day is to consider options that highlight the venue, the equestrian world, or a specific horse or jockey that you are there to support. If you want the focus to be on your headpiece, then keep simple bracelets and necklaces as your primary jewelry considerations.
Remember that this is an all-day event. Wearing something that feels bulky or heavy may become uncomfortable over time.
Rule #6: Handbags
Many racing events involve a lot of walking. If you visit the stables to see the horses, there may be some challenging environments to navigate. For that reason, it is advisable to pack any needed accessories based on the anticipated conditions that will be at the venue. Large bags are often recommended, but may be restricted for security reasons at certain venues. Choose the largest bag that you are comfortable with carrying.
Having a large bag with you is a great way to bring along a spare pair of shoes. You might want some sunscreen and a bottle of water (or your preferred allowed beverage) and other items that may be useful should the weather change.
Then bring a handbag or a clutch along so you aren’t taking pictures with that large bag or forced to drag that bag along should you wish to make a wager or purchase something on the grounds.
Rule #7: Socks
One of the more unusual fashion rules that you’ll find at various horse racing venues, especially for men, involves socks. If you are wearing horse bit loafers to the event fellows, then it is important to know whether or not you’re supposed to wear them without socks. Even though the shoe is technically a loafer, the structure of the shoe itself is more similar to that of a boat shoe.
For women, most shoes are difficult to wear with socks anyway. Certain flats may be more comfortable with socks and that is usually left to personal discretion.
Sneakers and tennis shoes are usually prohibited at any formal venue.
Rule #8: Sunglasses
Always bring along your favorite set of sunglasses when attending a horse race. You may find yourself squinting into the sun to track a race otherwise. Remember to apply some sunscreen to your face if you’ll be outdoors for most of the day to avoid coming home with a raccoon-style suntan on your face from the glasses.
Once you have all the fashion rules or expectations straightened out, you’ll be ready to enjoy a favorite cocktail or two and relax with your favorite people. Why? Because there’s one rule of what to wear to a horse race that comes above any other. It’s not really what you decide to wear, but how you wear it, that matters the most.
]]>When thrush is found in horses, it is an infection that affects the frog of the horse. The frog is the support portion of the hoof that provides traction and balance. It is a condition that horses and humans share in name, but not in location or for the same reasons. That is why it is important to distinguish one from the other.
The infection is usually caused by the presence of frequent or prolonged exposure to wet, damp, and dirty stable conditions. Horses turned out into damp, dirty conditions can also develop thrush. There are also some instances when thrush is able to form when none of these common conditions are present.
What is problematic about thrush in horses is that most cases of it are discovered by a farrier or a veterinarian and not the owner or handler of the horse.
What Is the Cause of Thrush in Horses?
Thrush can be a bacterial or a fungal infection in horses, though bacterial infections are the most common. One bacterium, called fusobacterium necrophorum, is very aggressive when it causes an infection and it can quickly destroy the frog and the deeper tissues of the hoof and foot.
Severe cases of thrush have caused swelling in the upper leg and infections of the hoof wall, heel bulb, and digital cushion.
Horses that have an imbalanced food or have a frog that is deep and narrow have higher risks for a thrush infection, but any horse can develop thrush if the environmental and health conditions are just right.
Back feet tend to be more affected than the front feet in many horses. One or more feet can become infected with thrust at the same time.
If left unrecognized or untreated, thrush becomes a degenerative condition.
Poor bedding is the most common cause of thrush in horses. Being stabled on sodden and soiled bedding for a prolonged period is an almost guarantee that thrust will eventually develop.
Poor foot care is another common reason for thrush to develop. If a horse’s feet are not regularly picked out and cleaned, then the bacteria can make its way into the frog and start an infection. Trimming and shoeing activities that are incorrect or done with poor skill can also encourage the development of thrush in some horses.
Although bad stable management is usually blamed for thrush, some horses tend to be more susceptible to it than others. Some cases of thrush are thought to be caused by too much aggressiveness with a hoof pick as well.
How Can Thrush Be Diagnosed in Horses?
One of the issues that owners and handlers face when dealing with thrush is that a horse affected by this condition will often show no signs of discomfort. Even if there is discharge present, the horse will normally experience no lameness or discomfort.
When thrush is present in the frog, the infection creates a very foul odor that is quite recognizable. A black discharge that also smells foul will come from the sulcus of the affected frog. Horses that are dealing with thrust will also show discomfort when direct compression is applied to the affected area.
There are other indicators which can indicate thrush is present, even if the discharge has not yet formed. The central sulcus on inactive horses or those experiencing health issues can be deeper than normal, which limits air access to that region. If there is debris found in this area, there is a good chance that bacteria will also be in that area and the tissues are beginning to degrade.
Severe cases of thrush are sometimes confused with another infection that is called “Canker.” This type of infection is more severe than thrush and can cause bleeding with simple pressure to the affected area. Tissues that are affected by canker look like a cauliflower that has rotted and will have a sponge-like texture to them.
\n\nMessing with thrush....it stinks poor horse :( pic.twitter.com/Kp2q3OzK
— Brooke Cardwell-Duke (@missbrooke13) March 22, 2012
How Is Thrush Treated in Horses?
To treat thrush in horses, the underlying cause of the infection must be removed. Environmental conditions that could encourage the infection to survive must also be properly managed. For most horses, the first steps in treating thrush involve being moved to a stable or environment that is dry and clean. Their feet should be cleaned every day.
In some instances, a farrier or veterinarian may also need to directly treat the foot if there is tissue damage present. Any tissues that are dead or damaged must be cut away so that the healthy tissues can be reached. This cutaway process may need to be repeated for some horses, depending upon the severity of their condition.
Once the dead and damaged tissue has been removed, a topical treatment is usually applied to the area experiencing the infection. It is usually a caustic combination that involves iodine, formalin, or even chlorine bleach. A farrier will likely need to trim the affected hooves so that new frog growth is promoted.
After the frog and the rest of the affected hoof has been cleaned, an antibiotic solution is usually applied to the area. Bandaging may be necessary to promote the healing process if the amount of trimming required to reach healthy tissues was extensive.
Dry and clean bedding is mandatory. It may need to be changed daily.
Should the thrush infection spread to other parts of the horse’s body, prescription antibiotics may be required to restore health.
Picking out the hooves carefully will encourage healing as well. The bacteria which cause thrush are killed when exposed to oxygen. By using the hoof pick properly, the hoof will experience better air flow levels and that will reduce the chances that the bacteria have to thrive.
Why Does Thrush Return So Often in Horses?
A horse may be responding very well to its thrush treatment, but after a few days, the problem comes back with an even greater ferocity. Why do some horses experience a return of the infection immediately after it has been treated?
It depends on the condition of the hoof itself. Many horses have crevices in their hooves that an antibiotic paste or caustic solution will not reach. Even though a majority of the infection is treated and removed, the bacteria is allowed to linger and will take over once the treatment efforts are stopped.
Cracking in the keratin of the horse hoof is also quite common. These cracks may be very fine and not even allow the caustic solution to flow through them, but they’ll still be large enough for the bacteria to find a home.
At the same time, packing the hoof with antibiotic products isn’t usually an option because the extra pressure on the frog can be painful to the horse. Too much pressure on the frog for an extended period can even kill the frog tissues and prolong the course of treatment.
If you are administering the treatment course for your horse, be sure to use a swab that can reach all areas of the hoof. Applying a cotton swab to the end of a hoof pick can be an effective option. Then soak the swab in the treatment solution and wash the sides of the frog down first, just like you’re going to pick out the hoof. That will let the solution get into the cracks and prevent the bacteria from finding a place to wait out your treatment efforts.
Is It Possible to Prevent Thrush in Horses?
In most cases, thrush is an entirely preventable condition. Horses that are kept in dry and clean conditions, receive regular foot care, and see a farrier regularly have a much lower risk of developing thrush compared to other horses. Although some horses have hooves that increase their risk of developing thrush, good stable habits can dramatically lower the risks for a horse.
It is important to remember that if the frog is compromised, it becomes an entry point for other dangerous bacteria. The bacteria that causes tetanus is known to use an infected frog to afflict horses. If thrush is present, speak with your veterinarian about taking precautions against tetanus.
For most horses, a case of thrush is usually fairly easy to treat. Keep the stable clean, keep the foot clean, and pick out the hoof each day. Despite your best efforts, even with a perfectly clean stable, some horses are just prone to this condition and will require ongoing treatment.
If the infection is not responding to your treatments or you have specific questions about the health of a horse, always consult with a veterinarian as your first course of action. Rapid recognition can lead to a rapid response and that will help to decrease the discomfort a horse experiences from this condition.
It may be caused by an injury, an acquired disorder, a genetic disorder, an infection, a disease of the central nervous system, a circulatory disease, or a metabolic disorder. It is the most common cause of loss in use.
Lameness, however, is not an actual disease. It is a symptom caused by another health issue that is affecting the horse. Pain is the most common reason why horses become lame, but anything that changes the structure or function of the locomotor system offers the chance for lameness to occur. That is why finding the cause of the lameness and treating the root issue is so critical to the recovery of the horse.
Determining Lameness on a Scale of Severity
To help determine the severity of lameness with individual horses, the American Association of Equine Practitioners has created a grading scale. This scale provides criteria that applies to all breeds so the same standards of evaluation and treatment can be applied to every horse. That makes it easier to describe the lameness and begin the process of developing an accurate diagnosis.
There are six grades that are included on the current lameness scale.
Grade 0: This is a sound horse that is not experiencing a lameness issue whatsoever.
Grade 1: This is a horse that experiences intermittent lameness that may be difficult to observe. The horse, even when exhibiting symptoms of lameness, may show only subtle changes in gait or stance.
Grade 2: This grade represents a horse that shows consistent signs of lameness under specific conditions. The lameness may not be apparent when the horse is moving in a walk or a trot along a straight line.
Grade 3: This is a horse that shows lameness symptoms that are consistently observable under every circumstance during the trot.
Grade 4: This horse displays consistent lameness during the walk.
Grade 5: Horses with this grade of lameness can only place a minimal amount of weight on a leg or hoof while in motion or at rest. Horses with this level of lameness are often unwilling or unable to move.
What Are the Common Causes of Lameness in Horses?
Although there are countless ways for a horse to experience lameness, there are certain causes which are more common than others. Here are the most common issues that veterinarians see which cause lameness in horses.
#1. Heel Pain
Anything that causes pain to the heel of the horse offers the potential for lameness to develop. This can range from an injury to one of the ligaments to problems with the coffin bone. Heel pain can be caused by a hoof wall problem as well. It is also a symptom of navicular syndrome in horses.
#2. Degenerative Joints
For older horses, degenerative joint disease is a common reason why lameness occurs. It can also occur in highly active sporting horses. Excessive wear on certain joints can prevent the cartilage from being able to repair itself, which causes pain for the horse. When enough pain is present in the leg, the horse may refuse to move.
#3. Ligament and Tendon Injury
Any injury to a ligament or tendon in the leg provides a degree of risk for lameness to develop. One of the most common causes of lameness in this category involves the upper digital flexor tendon since it has such a superficial placement. The suspensory ligament and the deep digital flexor are commonly injured as well and can create lameness.
#4. Abscess
An abscess on the foot can cause various grades of lameness, depending on the severity of the condition. Caused by an infection just beneath the hoof, the abscess places pressure on the sensitive structures of the foot and can even cause those tissues, such as the frog, to begin to degenerate. Without relief, an abscess tends to grow and make the lameness worse over time.
#5. Navicular Syndrome
Heel pain is not always present with navicular syndrome, but this small bone can cause lameness nonetheless. This small bone lies within the hoof and if it is not positioned correctly or there is an issue with its health, then it is very likely that the horse will suffer from lameness on some level.
\n\nI missed my majestic man. Such a good minded horse that it's so sad he's lame. pic.twitter.com/4impGZHCoy
— Melissa Conaway (@conaway_melissa) November 21, 2017
How to Determine What is Causing Lameness
Because there can be so many different causes of lameness in horses, trying to find the specific cause through a systematic investigation and be time consuming and difficult. To make the process easier, a thorough examination of the horse’s medical history is usually the first step in the journey toward a diagnosis. The age, breed, type, and training of the horse will be examined as well as they can provide clues as to what is causing the lameness.
In some horses, an adverse reaction to shoeing can be the cause of lameness. A shoe that is attached poorly or has nails driven into a sensitive portion of the foot may show no outward signs of injury, but can cause high levels of discomfort for the horse. Knowing when the last shoeing took place is usually part of the interview process. In most cases, the shoes will need to be removed to complete the examination.
To relieve pain for the horse, a veterinarian may prescribe certain analgesics or anti-inflammatory medication. How the horse responds to those medications may determine the treatment plan for lameness as well.
A visual inspection of the horse and palpitation of the limbs in various positions can provide a lot of information about what is causing the horse’s lameness as well. If the physical examination is inconclusive, diagnostic imaging technologies can provide supplemental information that may shed light on the situation.
To localize lameness to a specific limb, most horses must be exercised during their examination. If localization occurs, a regional anesthesia may be administered to determine the horse’s response. Exercise is not an option for horses that may be suffering from a leg fracture as the cause of their lameness.
A complete inspection of the back and neck should occur as well.
By recognizing lameness, it can be diagnosed and treated. Because the only symptom of lameness may be a head nod or a rising of the neck when an injured limb strikes the ground and bears weight, an experienced veterinarian should evaluate the horse and recommend a treatment plan to restore the horse to good health.
How to Treat Lameness in Horses
There may be simple steps that can be taken immediately to resolve a lameness issue with a horse. The first step could be to pick the horse’s feet as this will remove any rocks that may have wedged their way into a hoof crevice. Look for bruising on the sole of the foot and check for any discharge. Cracks may be in the hoof or it may have been trimmed too short.
If you feel warmth in one hoof, but not the others, then this can be a sign of infection or an abscess. A pounding pulse may be present as well.
Should inflammation be present, it is important to encourage the horse to get some box rest. This will encourage less weight to be placed on the inflamed or painful area and encourage the horse’s immune system to work on an infection that may be present.
If swelling is present, a veterinarian may recommend cold hosing on the affected area. This, along with anti-inflammatory medication, can help to reduce localize swelling. You may need to protect the hoof of the horse to prevent it from softening with this daily procedure. Soaking an affected hoof in hot, clean water with Epsom salts can help to draw an infection out and provide temporary relief to the horse.
For abscesses that cause lameness, keeping them warm can help them to mature more quickly with a lesser degree of pain to the horse. If the abscess bursts, disinfect the wound and keep it clean so that it can heal properly.
A trip to the farrier may also be necessary to restructure an affected hoof so that it can bear weight once again. New shoes, braces, or glue-on products may be able to relieve the pain the horse is experiencing so they can become active again.
Lameness can be difficult to diagnose. It can also cause potentially life-threatening circumstances if the grade is severe enough. That’s why being proactive with foot care is essential to the health of the horse. It may be impossible to prevent all potential injuries. With proactive observation and care, there are many cases of lameness that can be avoided in horses today.
Foundering can be caused by multiple issues. To treat the condition, it is necessary to identify the reason why it developed in the first place. There can be cases caused by inflammation, overload, and metabolic issues.
Always seek the advice of an experienced veterinarian if there is a suspicion that your horse is foundering.
What Is Laminitis?
When a horse founders, then the hooves that are affected become hot and painful. The horse can feel pain pulses surge through their fetlock and pastern. If it is present, then it can damage or weaken the attachments that support the hoof wall and the pedal pone. In some instances, the attachments can elongate or even break, which lessens the supports of the pedal bone and the hoof capsule.
Foundering occurs when these attachments lose enough strength that the pedal bone shifts and rotates away from the hoof wall. In some instances, the bone can shift so that it begins to point downward. In severe cases, the pedal bone has even been known to penetrate the sole. It may also sink or do all of the above in varying combinations.
When laminitis transitions into foundering, the amount of pain the horse experiences is excruciating. Unless immediate surgical intervention occurs, some cases require euthanasia for humane reasons.
How Can I Tell What is Causing a Horse to Founder?
Most causes of foundering have reasons that are obvious.
If the horse becomes ill for some reason or has a fever, then the white blood cell count will rise. Horses might also have watery stools. These are all indications that if foundering is present, it is due to inflammation.
For horses that cannot put any weight on one specific leg and it has been a progressive issue, then this is an indication that the horse is suffering from overload laminitis.
When a horse appears fine, but ends up being lame, then this is a good indication that a metabolic foundering issue is present. Treating this condition requires an ongoing treatment plan administered by the horse’s veterinarian.
\n\n2016 Turning for Home Day - Race 1 - TFH FOUNDERS Sponsored by Pennsylvania Horse Breeders Association - Featuring … pic.twitter.com/wEpugd9zTe
— Turning for Home,Inc (@TurningForHome_) June 25, 2016
How to Care for Laminitis and Foundering
If a horse has been diagnosed with an acute case of laminitis and foundering is not an issue, then there are three common treatment options that are recommended by veterinarians.
#1. Painkillers can help to improve daily living opportunities for the horse while the laminitis issue is being addressed. Horses can react negatively to high doses and long-term doses of painkillers, so consult with a veterinarian about what the proper dose should be and if there are any side effects that may be concerning.
#2. Rest allows the weakened structures to begin healing. Exercise that occurs with laminitis can cause those structures to break, which leads to foundering. If the laminitis is classified as being moderate-to-severe, then box rest is a common recommendation.
#3. Foot supports will help to take the pressure off the affected feet. Horses prefer to have soft, deep bedding that allows the hoof to sink into the material and be surrounded by it. Sand is popular, as are shavings, but it must be dry and loose for it to provide an adequate level of support. Make sure the bare areas of the stable are given supports and not just the box. Sole support is also possible with hoof padding that can be strapped to the horse.
One of the biggest issues that horses face when diagnosed with laminitis or dealing with a case of foundering is boredom. Horses do not like to be confined. If they’re forced to rest in their box, then their behavior will degrade over time. Stall toys are a good solution to prevent boredom, as is a stall that has a window.
Some forms of metabolic laminitis require ongoing treatment to prevent the condition from turning into foundering. The horse may be encouraged to lose weight or begin a diet that encourages long-term weight loss. Added exercise is often recommended as well. Medication can help the horse manage their laminitis if diet and exercise are not enough to control the condition.
How to Prevent Laminitis
To prevent laminitis and foundering, it is necessary to avoid all potential causes of this condition.
Inflammatory laminitis is the most difficult to prevent. In many acute cases, there is little that anyone can do. Make sure that the door to the feeding room, if you have one, is kept secure. Mares that have foaled, but retained the afterbirth, should be assessed by a veterinarian immediately. Reducing the risk of colic by making slow feeding changes and giving the horse an adequate level of exercise can help as well.
For overload laminitis, the primary cause of this condition is usually an injury. Preventing injuries means removing potential hazards that the horse could encounter, especially with their hooves. Because this issue is usually caused by an accident, there is not much that can be done to prevent laminitis from developing.
One form of metabolic laminitis, called PPID, is not preventable. It is degenerative disorder that affects senior horses. About 20% of horses above the age of 15 will be affected by PPID. Every additional birthday for the horse will increase the risk of suffering from this form of laminitis. It is treatable once discovered, however, and many horses with PPID continue to live fulfilling lives.
EMS is a second form of metabolic laminitis that occurs in horses that are genetically prone to gaining weight easily. Look for bulging around the eyes or rings around the hooves to see if this condition may be present. Dropped soles can be an indication of EMS as well. In many ways, this form of laminitis is similar to diabetes in humans. If you suspect this condition, ask your veterinarian to conduct a glucose test to determine insulin production levels.
In every circumstance, maintaining a healthy weight, receiving exercise, and avoiding injury will help to reduce the risks of laminitis developing. It is impossible to prevent every possible case of this disorder, but when it can be recognized quickly, it can be treated right away. That is your best defense against the potentially life-threatening issue of foundering.
]]>In most instances, grey horses are treated the same as white horses for what they have come to symbolize.
European Symbolism for White Horses
The Slavics believed that white horses could help humans gain insight into what the future would bring. Priests would observe a white stallion’s movement between a series of fences. By seeing which leg would step first through each fence row, future events could be divined.
In Celtic mythology, the white horse is associated with Rhiannon. She is linked to the horse goddess Epona, associated with fertility. Many would draw figures of white horses to encourage families who wanted to have more children.
Ancient Hungarians would actually sacrifice white horses to their god because they were a symbolism of wealth. These horses were often sent in exchange for payments or debts and could bring a better harvest.
In Scottish mythology, a white horse is associated with a water demon. The creature would be found in the pools and lochs around the country and has the ability to shapeshift into other forms as well, including humans.
The Greeks associated white horses with Pegasus, who was sired by Poseidon while in the role of being a horse god. The mother of Pegasus is Medusa. As the myth goes, Zeus transformed Pegasus into a constellation to be forever remembered in the sky.
Religious Symbolism for White Horses
In Christianity, Revelation 19 describes a white horse. “Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems, and he has a name written that no one knows but himself.”
Christianity also describes the First Horseman of the apocalypse riding a white horse, given the task of “conquering and to conquer.” Saint James and Saint George are also directly associated with white horses.
In Hinduism, white horses appear many times. One of the most precious objects that came from the battle between the demons and devas in the churning ocean was a white horse with 7 heads, sometimes ridden by Indra. Surya rides a chariot that is drawn by 7 white horses. Kalki, the tenth incarnation of Vishnu, is predicted to appear riding on a white horse as well.
In Buddhism, Kanthaka is a white horse that is described as being the loyal servant of Gautama Buddha. Kanthaka is part of every major event before the renunciation, which is said to have caused the white horse to die from a broken heart.
Islam tells of a creature named Al-Buraq that is often described as a “beast,” “steed,” or “mount.” Artwork depicts this white horse as having the face of a human, though such a description is not included in the writings of the religion. It is said that Al-Buraq helped to take Abraham when he left to visit Hagar and Ishmael. Al-Buraq only appears in some hadith literature.
Certain Shi’a traditions also have Mahdi appearing one day while riding a white horse.
In Judaism, white horses are included with horses of other colors to represent the spirits of heaven. Zechariah describes these horses as being teams that go forth and patrol the world, doing their best to keep things peaceful.
\n\n#HunterHayes #MakeAWish I really need you to PLEASE get your hiney on a horse & send her a signed pic & truly reward her for life's challenges/achievements. She is my heart! pic.twitter.com/9AsJC7MThx
— Lisa L Pope (@Wheezer00) November 24, 2017
Far Eastern Symbolism for White Horses
In Vietnam, a white horse serves as the patron saint of Hanoi. The Bach Ma Temple, or “White Horse” Temple, is specifically dedicated to the spirit of this creature. In the 11thn century, the king said that he had a vision of a white horse which represented a river spirit. It guided him to the place where he was to build his citadel.
In the Philippines, a white horse serves as the symbol of the city of Pangantucan. It is said that a white horse helped to save a tribe from a massacre because it uprooted bamboo unexpectedly and that warned the people that an enemy was approaching.
In Korea, a white horse is part of the Kingdom of Silla story. As people come to gather to say prayers for a king, the white horse emerges from a bolt of lightning. The horse then bows to a shining egg before flying back into the heavens. The egg opened and a boy, Park Hyeokgeose, emerged. The boy grew up and united the warring states.
White Horses in Dream Symbolism
Many people will also dream of white horses. When white horses are seen, it is often an indication of being spiritually aware. It can symbolize innocence and purity, be a symbol of good fortune, or even represent prosperity.
Being chased by a white horse in a dream can be a reflection of relationship issues. The dreamer may feel like they are unworthy or incapable of being a supportive partner within an intimate relationship. This is reinforced if the white horse is a wild horse.
White horses that are dead within a dream can be symbolize the ending of a friendship. It can also be an indication of an upcoming change in life circumstances. Sometimes, this type of dream can be interpreted as a way to encourage the dreamer to move on to another phase in their life, such as a new career.
Dreams that involve white horses being pulled by the individual symbolize feelings of repression and control. It is a desire for the inner person to break free of the daily pressures that are so bothersome.
Mounting a white horse is a representation of upcoming wealth. Riding a white horse without a saddle with the opposite sex can be an indication that sexual desires are not being fulfilled or that prosperity might be fleeting. Riding without a saddle with the same gender can be a reflection of abundance. For those in the LGBTQIA+ community, the opposite of these interpretations may also be true, depending on the orientation and perspective of each individual.
What Does a White Horse Symbolize to You?
White horses have symbolized many different things to cultures and religions throughout history. What is most important, however, is what they symbolize to each person. They may represent strength, beauty, passion, or other powerful aspects of life that can inspire greatness in each person.
A white horse is a special creature. Let us treat them with the respect they deserve each day.
]]>Any time you see or sense a change in the behavior of a horse, the vital signs should be checked. Good routine care involves checking the vital signs at least once per week. It can take some time to learn what the data you collect actually means, but with practice, you’ll be able to get to know each horse better and react quickly when you sense that something is wrong.
What Should the Temperature of a Horse Be?
The normal body temperature for a horse is usually between 99-101F. Temperatures that are higher than this may indicate that there is an infection present somewhere in the horse’s body. It should be noted, however, that a horse’s body temperature can rise by three degrees (and sometimes more) in certain environmental or working conditions.
If a horse’s temperature is normally around 101F, after a long day of working, a temperature that is around 104F would still be considered normal. You would need to monitor the body temperature as the horse cools down to ensure that it is the work and not an infection that has boosted the horse’s temperature.
Stress, excitement, and even warm weather will influence the body temperature of the horse.
Any unusual body temperature ready should be communicated to your veterinarian for evaluation. If you are just starting to get to know the vital signs of a horse, a body temperature reading of 102F or higher should be communicated to your veterinarian to ensure the horse is properly evaluated.
\n\nMake sure they always have access to clean, open water. Free choice access to hay is also recommended, this will help to keep your horse’s body temperature up & aid in having a happy, healthy digestive tract & good body condition. #JFMEquine pic.twitter.com/Tq8uHCGvBd
— Jones Feed Mills Ltd (@Jones_Feed) November 21, 2017
How Do I Take the Temperature of a Horse?
The best way to take the body temperature of a horse is to use a rectal thermometer. It is important to tie a string to the end of the thermometer if one isn’t present to ensure that it doesn’t get lost while taking the temperature of the horse. Retrieving a lost rectal thermometer is not something that many would describe as a fun time.
Most tack shops and some pharmacies will sell rectal thermometers for horses that are quite affordable. A plastic digital thermometer works just as well as the old-fashioned mercury-type thermometers. If you do use one of the older models, it is important to ensure the mercury is at the base level so that an accurate reading can be produced.
Make sure that the horse is tied before attempting to get a body temperature reading. It is usually easier to have someone else working with the horse, giving it attention, while you work on obtaining the vital signs. Make sure the thermometer has been lubricated properly before using it. Petroleum jelly works just fine.
Then move the tail of the horse to the side. You’ll need to make sure it is out of the way so that you can use the thermometer properly. Insert the thermometer according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Try to angle the thermometer so that it is slightly angled toward the ground.
Never stand directly behind a horse while taking a body temperature reading. Some horses do not like this experience and will react by kicking.
The thermometer should remain in place for 3 minutes to ensure accuracy. Some digital thermometers, however, may be able to provide an accurate reading in 60 seconds or less.
Once you’ve obtained the body temperature reading, be sure to thoroughly clean the thermometer before returning it to its storage container. A good cleaning will help to prevent an illness from spreading to the other horses in your care.
Other Vital Signs to Take When Caring for Horses
Once you’ve obtained the body temperature, there are some other vital signs that you’ll want to check to ensure the horse is at optimal health.
Pulse Rate: A horse at rest should have a pulse rate of 40 beats per minute or less. Anything above this rate for an adult horse can indicate stress or excitement. Foals may have a pulse rate of up to 120 beats per minute. Yearlings can be up to 60 beats per minute. A 2-year-old horse usually has a pulse rate between 40-50 beats per minute. The pulse can be found near the front of the left jawbone. Press firmly with your forefinger.
Respiration: The average adult horse, while resting, should have an average of 11.5 breaths per minute. The normal range for this vital sign is between 8-15 breaths per minute. Make sure a full intake and release is counted as one breath instead of two. Rapid breathing can indicate the presence of an infection, colic, or another health condition.
Intestinal Sounds: You want to hear gut sounds coming from a horse. A lack of sounds can indicate the presence of a digestive tract problem, such as colic. Certain types of colic can also produce an excessive amount of gut noise. Use a stethoscope to listen for these sounds and report anything that seems unusual immediately. The best place to listen is right behind the last rib.
Water Consumption: A healthy horse may consume upwards of 5 gallons of clean, fresh water during a day. Urging a horse to drink more water if they don’t reach the 5-gallon threshold is important. If the horse won’t drink the water, try adding a little apple juice or a sports beverage into it to encourage fluid intake. A horse refusing to drink should be considered a health emergency. You can check for dehydration by pinching the hide of the horse near the neck. If it doesn’t flatten back into place immediately, the horse is dehydrated.
Mucous Membranes: Checking the gums, eyelids, and inside the nostrils can determine if the horse is experiencing good blood circulation. The gums should be somewhat pale when healthy. If they are bright red, blue, or yellow, a veterinarian needs to examine the horse immediately. The same is true for the colors of the mucus membranes in the other areas of the body as well. You can also check circulation levels by checking to see how long it takes for blood to return to blanched tissues. Anything longer than 2 seconds can indicate a medical emergency.
By checking to see if a horse has a normal body temperature, you are being proactive about their health. Check the other vitals as well each week and any time you have a concern over the health of the horse and you’ll be able to care for the animal properly.
According to 2014 data that has been released by all major equine associations, the most common breed of horse is currently the American Quarter Horse. From 2002-2006, More than 160,000 Quarter Horses were registered each year. In 2014, about 85,000 Quarter Horses were registered.
Here are some other breed registration numbers from the same years.
Paint Horses: About 50,000 horses were registered each year between 2002-2006, while total registrations in 2014 were only about 10,000 horses.
Thoroughbreds: From 2002-2006, about 40,000 horses were registered each year. In 2014, about 30,000 horses were registered.
Standardbreds: About 10,000 horses each year were registered between 2002-2006, while in 2014, around 7,500 horses were registered.
Arabian horses are often listed as one of the world’s most common horses and it frequently tops the list of favorite breeds. There are about 1 million registered Arabian horses around the world right now, yet that number is less than 50% of the total population of Quarter Horses in the United States.
According to FAO Statistics, 2.64 million of the estimated 10.15 million registered horses in the United States were Quarter Horses. When global population numbers are included, the estimated population total for the breed is approximately 3.2 million individuals.
Why Are Quarter Horses So Popular?
In the United States, the modern American Quarter Horse is often thought of as a ranch horse. That is because settlers who began to move westward in the 19th century in the U.S. discovered that the horse had a unique “cow sense.” Riders could manage their herds quite easily because the horses instinctively knew what needed to be done.
The Quarter Horse, however, was originally developed along the East Coast of the United States to be a race horse. The name of the breed is a reflection of the horse’s speed over that specific distance. Some Quarter Horses have been observed at this distance reaching peak speeds that exceed 50 miles per hour.
Quarter Horses were developed through a combination of important Spanish, Celtic, and local stock horses in the original U.S. colonies beginning in the 17th century. Settlers originally bred horses to help them deal with the harsh conditions of colonial life, but soon focused on the racing potential of this horse as conditions grew easier to manage.
In the 18th century, Thoroughbreds were introduced into the breed to improve their speed and status. The new Quarter Horses would then race the one-quarter mile distance, often along the main street of a town.
Since then, Quarter Horses have been used to improve a number of different horse breeds. Even Thoroughbreds have been influenced by the Quarter Horse, a breed which they helped to establish more than two centuries ago.
\n\nThe Peruvian Paso Horse The Equestrian Jewel Known as the World's Finest Saddle Horse - of all the horse breeds with ambling gaits, the Peruvian Paso horse is the smoothest, carrying the rider without subjecting him to the rigors of the trot typical of other horses. pic.twitter.com/1XyOxBADjm
— Pisco Porton (@PiscoPorton) December 11, 2017
Why Are Quarter Horses the Best?
Quarter Horses are very popular because they are so versatile. They can excel in numerous disciplines and many horses are able to cross between disciplines and compete at world-class levels. There are more than 11,000 breed registry approved events in the United States for Quarter Horses every year.
The most popular event is the All-American Futurity, which is held at Ruidoso Downs in New Mexico. Horses which qualify for this race will compete for $1 million.
At the same time, the Quarter Horse is very social and enjoys numerous recreational activities. Trail riding, Western pleasure riding, and ranch work are just as common within the breed as athletics.
Quarter Horses are also one of the more sensible and intelligent breeds in the world today. Most horses within this breed do their best for their riders and tend to be easy keepers. They keep going even when they get tired or hot, which is when many horses tend to call it a day. Quarter Horses stay calm, are usually not reactive, and are highly dependable.
Profile of the American Quarter Horse
Quarter Horses tend to have a straight profile that is complemented by a strong body with visual muscularity. The chest is powerful and broad, though the head is somewhat smaller than average, but with good refinement.
There are two different body types seen within the modern breed. The hunter/racer and the stock type horse have similar visual aesthetics, but the hunter and racing type tends to be somewhat taller and have more-defined muscularity. Some of the hunter and racing horses within the breed have been known to reach 17 hands high.
Most Quarter Horses stand at 16 hands high or below, however, and some mares can be around 14 hands and technically be classified as a pony. The smaller adults within this breed are still referred to as horses.
Another reason why the Quarter Horse is so popular is because their coat can come in almost every color. The most common coat seen within the breed is sorrel, which is a combination of red and brown. Other breeds refer to the color as “chestnut.” Black, brown, bay, gray, and dun are also relatively common. Buckskin, palomino, grullo, cremello, perlino, and roan horses are also recognized by the breed registry.
Spotted horses have begun to be accepted within the breed registry as well, although in the past they were excluded. If an American Quarter Horse has a spotted coat, a DNA test is ordered to verify the parentage of the horse. If both parents are registered horses, then the offspring qualifies for registry as well, no matter what the color of the coat happens to be.
Health Concerns with the Quarter Horse
Quarter Horses are relatively healthy, but there are some genetic diseases which must be managed within the breed. Malignant hyperthermia, which can be triggered by stress or being overworked, is specifically associated with the Quarter Horse lineage. Symptoms of this disease include a high fever, a rapid heartbeat, and rigidity of the muscles. High blood potassium is a common complication of the condition.
Even general anesthesia can be a trigger for this condition. Without treatment, 3 out of 4 horses will experience life-threatening complications once this condition is triggered. Testing is possible to determine if a horse is susceptible to this condition.
Additional health concerns include PSSM, lethal white syndrome, HERDA, and HYPP. Horses that test positive for these conditions may be excluded from the registry.
The most common horse breed in the world today is the Quarter Horse. Although several other breeds are also popular and others have a longer pedigree to follow, in terms of pure population numbers, no other breed comes close to the Quarter Horse.
Where a horse lives will also affect the average lifespan. Horses in the developed world tend to live longer than horses in developing countries because of better food access. Horses in Europe and Canada tend to live a little longer than horses in the United States.
When all is said and done, the average lifespan of a horse today is about 25 years. In Europe, some breeds see an average lifespan exceed 30 years. By comparison, the average life expectancy of a horse that lives in the United States is about 22 years, with heavier breeds seeing an average life expectancy of about 18 years.
How long an individual horse lives depends on the lifestyle of the horse, its genetic profile, and a little bit of luck.
If you’re looking to maximize the quality and length of life for the modern horse, these are the steps that you’re going to want to take.
#1. Have Good Veterinary Care Access
Many horses are treated as pets today instead of as a working animal. That means there is an emotional connection to a horse that makes people pay more attention to shifts in health, especially as the animal ages. In the past, older horses didn’t receive the same level of care as younger horses because that connection didn’t exist on the same level.
There are no health guarantees in life, but having access to good veterinary care can help extend the average life expectancy of every horse breed. From vaccinations to immediate care responses for acute injuries, good vet care is one of the best ways to increase the chances of a horse being able to life a happy and long life.
#2. Take Care of the Teeth
Dental health issues can immediately and dramatically impact the health of any horse. If the horse cannot properly chew food, then the risks of colic increase. In older horses, colic is the most common health problem that is addressed. Bad teeth create numerous problems that are entirely preventable.
What many owners do not realize is that when a horse reaches a senior age, they may have worn nearly 3 inches off their teeth. Those teeth can develop sharp points as they wear down, crack, or break as well. The teeth can also shift, often seen in the molars, and that misaligns the bite of an older horse.
When chewing becomes painful or difficult, the horse will stop eating. The horse may also stop chewing properly and that can lead to choking issues.
#3. Stop the Parasites
Controlling parasites is critical to long-term good health in horses. Parasitic damage is often cumulative due to the scar tissues that they generate. As a horse reaches a senior age, the internal scar tissues can reduce the gastrointestinal tract and make colic more likely. Once that scar tissue forms, it cannot be reverse.
One of the easiest ways to maximize the expected lifespan of a horse is to have them dewormed regularly, even if no symptoms are present. Get egg counts done at least twice per year. And, as the horse ages, start talking with a veterinarian about parasite loads that could tax the health of the horse, even if no symptoms are being displayed.
\n \n#GoldenHorses The average age of horse life span is around 28 + 5 years. pic.twitter.com/bhVRkXb3tt
— Mines PGH (@minespgh) February 28, 2016
#4. Follow a Good Nutritional Plan
Good dietary habits for a horse will create a strong foundation for future health. Make sure that every horse receives the vitamins, minerals, and calories they need every day.
It is important to remember that the nutritional needs of a horse will change over time. Older horses may not require as many calories, so they may begin to put on weight even though their feed remains the same. Younger horses tend to need more protein and supplemental nutrients and horses that are ridden recreationally need more calories than horses that are simply turned out.
Older horses struggle to break down fibrous foods, so offering beet pulp and other roughage that may be easier to digest may be necessary to maximize the lifespan of the horse.
#5. Exercise is a Good Thing
Horses get bored in their stalls. Even if toys are available, an inactive horse is a restless horse. These animals were built to be outside, enjoying the outdoors. If you can turn out the horse for extended periods, then it will decrease the risks of a premature death.
As horses age, some handlers fear that the outdoors may be too taxing on the animal, but the opposite is usually true. Some horses thrive when they’re allowed to be outside all day, every day.
If being turned out frequently is problematic or the horse likes to find trouble, consider a daily exercise program to maintain activity levels. That will allow the hindquarters to stay strong. Use a lead to encourage moving if the horse prefers being stationary at least 1-2 times per day to maintain strength.
Added exercise for older horses can also reduce the risks of dangerous colic.
#6. Be Vigilant
As a horse ages, they will take longer to recover from an illness. Their movements will become slower and more methodical. They may be more prone to parasites or injuries. That is why vigilance on the part of an owner or handler can create your own luck when it comes to life longevity.
Meeting the basic needs of a senior horse must go beyond food, water, and a little exercise. There must also be a social element given to the horse, whether that is through herd contact or human contact. Leaving a senior horse to be on their own creates an isolation that can be difficult to bounce back from over time.
Vigilance also means checking on the health of a senior horse every day and reporting any unusual changes to the vet as soon as possible.
Maximizing the Lifespan of a Horse
With good senior horse care, it is not unusual for horses to exceed the average lifespan figures that are noted here. There are two horses in documented history that have lived beyond the age of 60. Several more have reached their 50s, while the population of horses in their 30s and 40s has grown exponentially over the past few generations.
Horses may be treated like pets and that can be a good thing, but it can also be a bad thing if the horse is being spoiled. Instead of spoiling a horse with treats, spoil them with good care. Spoil them with exercise. Spoil them with time. In doing so, you’ll be giving your horse a chance at the longest, happiest life possible.
]]>Individual mares tend to have their own gestation average as well. Although most mares fit into the average time frames, some mares may naturally have slightly shorter or slightly longer gestation periods for every foal. Unless the health of the mare is at risk, the pregnancy should be allowed to reach its natural conclusion.
Most mares will only produce 1 foal per year. A pregnancy which involves multiples can be quite dangerous. Mares that do experience a twin pregnancy usually do so because they’ve experienced multiple ovulations.
What Happens to the Reproductive System?
When a mare begins to ovulate, there are changes in hormone levels that can change the characteristics of the reproductive organs. These changes help the mare be prepared (or prevented) from conceiving.
The uterus of the horse sees an increased level of estrogen. That causes the uterus to lose its tone and feel heavier. This increases muscular tone around the area. Then the cervix begins to relax until ovulation occurs, when it will reach a peak point of relaxation. High progesterone levels could cause the cervix to close instead.
The reproductive organs become engorged with blood and secretions begin to increase. This process allows for the breeding process or artificial insemination to begin.
When to Check for a Pregnancy in Mares
A mare may not show any visible signs of being pregnant for some time after an ovulation occurs with a successful fertilization. For the first 3 months, the only visible sign of the pregnancy may be the lack of an estrous cycle.
If a pregnancy is attempted, an ultrasound examination is usually carried out within the first two weeks after breeding takes place.
Should the ultrasound be inconclusive, it may take 60-90 days, depending upon the breed, for urine and blood testing to confirm a pregnancy. It may also be possible for a pregnancy to be physically detected by a veterinarian in 6-8 weeks after breeding takes place.
After the 3-month examination, the foal begins to develop rapidly. At 6 months, most mares will look visibly pregnant. As the foaling date approaches, the mare continues to grow. A yellowish fluid, which is somewhat sticky, begins to be produced about 2 weeks before the foaling date. Around the same time, the udder will begin to expand.
With about a week before the foaling date to go, the yellowish fluid from the udder begins to turn into a milk product for the foal. The foal may appear to drop as it prepares for the birthing process. At this point, a mare should be isolated and stalled, with frequent checks provided, to ensure proper health. The foal may appear at any time and the mare may give birth standing up.
\n \nFollow my lead, bums to the wind. Puds, Paz and Gem form an orderly line. #lovemyhorses #winter #equestrianlife #horseownership #HorseSaleSolutions pic.twitter.com/J8DsBculyK
— Horse Sale Solutions (@RachaelHSS) December 10, 2017
Why Are Twins So Rare with Horses?
Double ovulations occur at the same time in most instances, but it is possible for a mare to ovulate two eggs that are several days apart. The sperm from a stallion can survive within the reproductive tract for several days, so even if the ovulation of each egg occurs 7 days apart, it is possible that both eggs will be fertilized from the one sperm deposit.
That means a mare may be having a gestation period for two embryos that are of different ages, attempting to coexist with one another.
It takes an embryo at least 11 days for it to be seen on an ultrasound administered by a veterinarian. Because of the ovulation schedule of the mare, a second ovulation that results in another embryo forming could be missed upon an initial examination.
For that reason, the recommendation of many veterinarians is to schedule an examination, which includes an ultrasound, between 13-14 days post-ovulation instead of 11 days after.
It also puts the mare on a strict deadline. Because multiples can be a life-threatening pregnancy, the second embryo is usually eliminated. The 16th day post-ovulation is the optimal time to remove the second embryo because the two may fuse afterward, which makes removal unlikely and the entire pregnancy could miscarry if attempted.
Multiple ovulations of any number are possible, but anything beyond twins is considered extremely rare. Multiples for Warmbloods and Thoroughbreds have been increasing, however, and may occur in 1 out of every 4 estrous cycles.
It is possible for a mare to carry twins to full-term and to have the offspring and the mare be healthy throughout the entire process. This, unfortunately, tends to be the exception rather than the rule when it comes to pregnancies with multiples.
What Happens if a Foal is Breeched?
A foal is considered to be in a breech position when the hindquarters appear first during the birthing process. When one of the forelimbs are bent backwards during the birthing process, this may also be referred to by some as a breech. When this occurs, there is a high risk of injury to the mare. The foal may also require assistance to be removed from the birth canal in a timely manner so the risk of injury to it is lower.
Many breech pregnancies can be detected before birth with a routine veterinarian examination. If detected, the foal can usually be rotated so that it can be born in the regular position. If the birth process has begun and a foal has breeched unexpectedly, then this is treated as a medical emergency for the mare and foal.
A breech is more likely when a pregnancy includes multiples.
The history of horse breeding goes back as far as humanity has kept records on horses. There may be more than 6,500 years of breeding history that is known, with hundreds or thousands of years that go beyond that. The Bedouins were the earliest people document their horse breeding efforts and written pedigrees of some Arabians go back nearly 700 years.
Yet, over all this time, the gestation period for horses has remained relatively constant. By following good veterinary practices and understanding the individual differences that mares may have with a pregnancy, it is possible to produce a successful foal on a regular basis.
Care may need to be taken for pregnancies which involve multiples, but thanks to modern knowledge and techniques, more mares and their offspring can go on to live healthy and productive lives.
]]>“That’s a Paint,” one person might say.
“That’s a Pinto,” another person might say.
Horses with two-colored coats are commonly called Paints and Pintos. The terms are often used interchangeably. There is, however, a clear difference between these two different horses.
What is the difference between a paint and a pinto horse?
A Paint Horse Is an Actual Breed of Horse
A pinto horse, like a Paint horse, has a coat color that is usually patches of white with a secondary color. The difference is that a pinto horse can be of any horse breed, whereas a Paint horse is an actual breed of horse.
The American Paint Horse has the pinto coloring of the coat, but must also have a verifiable pedigree. American Paint Horses must have Thoroughbred or Quarter Horse lineage to qualify under the current breed standard. That means every Paint horse is a pinto, but not every pinto can be a Paint.
To register, there must be at least one recorded parent with the American Paint Horse Association and both parents must be a Paint, a Quarter Horse, or a Thoroughbred in lineage.
That’s not to say the terminology is incorrect. A horse that is spotted is correctly identified as a pinto horse if the coat coloration is patch-like in construction. If the horse is spotted in a manner that is similar to a Dalmatian or a leopard, then the horse is closer to an Appaloosa than a pinto in most instances.
A horse should only be referred to as a Paint if it has a verifiable ancestry or the conformation of the horse is similar to what the standards of an American Quarter Horse happen to be.
Is It Possible to Have a Solid Paint or Pinto Horse?
Because pinto horses receive their name because of the specific structure of their coat, it is not possible for a pinto to be of a solid color. Two pinto horses may have an offspring that has a solid-color coat, but because pintos are “color breeds,” the offspring is technically not a pinto – even though it may be referred to as such because of its parentage.
Paint horses are a little different. The American Paint Horse Association states that a “good horse is a good horse, regardless of its color.” The breed association recognizes that not every qualifying Paint horse may have a flashy coat pattern. As long as the horse has a verified registry that would qualify it as a Paint, it is allowed to register.
There are some registration advantages to having a solid-color Paint. The registration fee in the United States is about 20% of the normal registration cost when the horse is a verified solid-color paint. Referred to as a Solid Paint-Bred, these horses qualify for the breeding programs and official designation as a Paint, despite the color of the coat.
That makes it possible for every Paint to find a home, even if the horse does not have the pinto coloration that draws so many people to this breed.
What Are the Paint and Pinto Patterns That Are Seen?
There are several different patterns that can be seen in both Paint and pinto horses. The most common pattern is called “tobiano.” This spotting pattern offers rounded markings, white legs, and white along the back between the dock and the withers. Most horses have a vertical pattern to their coat and additional white coloration than the darker coat color. The ideal patterning is close to a 50/50 distribution of both coat colors. All tobiano horses have at least one tobiano parent.
\n\nPinto horse pic.twitter.com/NhAbP2DNMp
— Muhammad Anwar (@AnwarManwar004) October 16, 2017
Here are the other coat pattern options that can be seen in both Paint and pinto horses.
Overo: The technical definition of this pattern is “not tobiano, but still pinto.” The patterns can be very different from each other, with irregularities throughout the coat, with jagged markings instead of rounded ones. The white coloration of the coat rarely crosses over the back of the horse with this pattern. It is possible for an overo horse to come from two solid-colored parents.
Tovero: This pattern is a mix of the overo and tobiano patterns. It occurs when the horse has multiple spotting patterns within its lineage. Any combination is possible within this pattern, including mostly white and mostly dark coats. Because of the potential mix of genetics, these pattern characteristics may show traits which seem to come from different breeds.
Dominant White: This pattern creates a coat that is mostly white, but not a true white. The darker coat color may be quite small and may be featured on one area of the body only. One of the rarest forms of this pattern is called the “medicine hat,” where the dark coat color is around the ears and the top of the head of the horse, but the rest of the body is of the white coat color only.
Within the overo pattern are several different options that may be displayed on Paint and pinto horses. There are three specific options that are commonly seen when a horse does have an overo coat.
• Frame Pattern: This overo pattern has horizontal white patches that have crisp, but jagged edges on the coat. The head, neck, and body typically see a high distribution rate of the white patches. Many horses with a frame look to them have a modest coat pattern that can make it difficult sometimes to associate the horse as being a pinto or part of the Paint breed.
• Splashed Pattern: This overo pattern offers horizontal white markings with smooth edges that come to a crisp conclusion. The horse often appears to have lowered its head into a bucket of white paint with this pattern. There are significant patterns on the face especially, but the rest of the body may have it as well. This pattern also has a congenital deafness trait linked to it.
• Sabino Pattern: Although sabino horses are often confused for roans, this lightly spotted patterning shows white on the belly, legs, and face that offer spots instead of a blended coat. Paints have sabino horses directly associated with the overo pattern, but other breeds that recognize pinto horses may classify the sabino pattern as being a separate coat option.
The goal for the coat patterning is to create a condition that is called “chrome.” Chrome Paints or pintos have a visually appealing pattern to the coat. Because Appaloosas are also described by this term with their attractive patterns, there can be some confusion in the description of certain horses when it is used.
I’ve Been Told I Have a Solid Pinto Horse…
Some pinto horses may appear to have a solid coat color, with white markings along the forehead and below the knees like many other breeds. In this circumstance, it is not unusual for that coloration of horse to be referred to as a solid-color pinto, but the term is somewhat confusing.
First of all, the horse is clearly not of a solid color. There are white markings on the horse. What makes it difficult to classify the horse as a pinto is the fact that the markings on the horse mimic other markings which meet breed standards. In this circumstance, some breeds may require DNA testing to determine the presence of pinto markings to allow the horse to be fully registered.
Another option for pinto horses is to have a “shield” coat. This type of coat consists of one dark or one white patch, located on the chest, while the remainder of the coat is of the opposite color. It is possible, though rare, for the medicine hat look to combine with the shield look on some Paint and pinto horses.
Why Are Paint and Pinto Descriptions Used Interchangeably?
In the 19th century, American writers referred to any spotted horse as a “painted” horse. The description was often used for the semi-feral Mustangs roaming the U.S. West, but grew in literature to refer to any type of horse with a unique coat. Even Appaloosas were described as “paints” in early literature.
There is also the usage of these horses by the tribal cultures in the United States in the 18th and 19th centuries. Many used their horses for battle and would give them their own war paint as part of the preparation process. The horses were called “paints” at that point because they had been outfitted for war.
What is the difference between a Paint and a pinto horse? The answer has to do with the breeding of the horse. When there is a verifiable pedigree as a Thoroughbred or a Quarter Horse, then it can be a Paint. Otherwise, the horse should be referred to as a pinto and may qualify to register as a color breed instead.
Compared to geldings and mares, a stallion tends to have a nick that is thicker and with a larger crest. There is typically more muscle mass throughout the body of the horse and herd instincts may be present at times as well.
The temperament of a stallion can vary widely. Influences of training and genetics make it so that some stallions are calm, gentle, and willing – while others are stubborn, aggressive, and difficult to handle. With proper training, a stallion can be competitive at the highest levels of sport in many different events.
History of the Term “Stallion”
Referring to male horses that can sire offspring as a “stallion” is a practice that dates to the time of King Henry VII. During his reign in the late 15th and early 16th century, several laws were passed in Britain that controlled the export and breeding of horses. The goal was to improve the population that existing in the kingdom. It became illegal to allow an uncastrated male horse to be placed in the commons or fields.
Those male horses had to be kept within bounds. They were required to be tied to their stalls. The word “stallion” literally means “stalled one.”
Although other uncastrated equine breeds, such as donkeys and zebras, also have stallions, the term originated through the requirements issued by Henry VII.
What Is the Herd Behavior of a Stallion?
Stallions typically form one of two different herd types. One is the family herd, where the stallion has 2-4 mares and their offspring with them at all times. They stay together as a family until the young horses are ready to wander off on their own to form their own herds. Powerful stallions may have 5+ mares in their herd, but large harems are very rare.
The other type of herd that stallions form is called a “bachelor group.” Horses are very social animals and thrive when they have companionship. Stallions that are unable to find mares for their own herd will group together and form their own group. The age range of a bachelor group can be quite extensive, with elderly and young stallions working together.
The stallion is often seen as being the head of the herd, but the leadership role is actually held by one of the mares. This is the boss mare, or the “lead mare,” as some prefer. It is her job to find food and water. The boss mare decides which shelter they should use.
The role of the stallion is to defend the herd. Most stallions will stay near the rear of the herd, acting as a guard to prevent an attack from behind. They may “encourage” slower members of the herd to keep up with the box mare.
How Often Do Stallions Fight?
Stallions rarely fight each other for mares when living in the wild or in semi-feral conditions. A stallion can compete for the mares of a herd at any time. Some may just choose to try to “steal” a mare or two to form their own herd if a stallion has a large harem.
\n\nNORTHERN TASTE was Japan's most successful ever Stallion until the arrival of Sunday Silence. A son of Northern Dancer, his success made the Yoshida Breeding business into the most successful in the history of Japanese racing. pic.twitter.com/plYpnVFrpZ
— Chris (@cmoreton99) December 4, 2017
When two stallions meet and the goal is to square off for a herd, they will usually bluff each other until one of them decides that they are the weaker horse and decide to wander away. Even if a fight breaks out, the weaker horse would be able to flee and that made for only short periods of combat at best.
It is when stallions are confined in small settings, in captivity, where the violent and prolonged battles for herd dominance occur. In captivity, there is no way to flee. There is nothing to lose and everything to gain with victory. These fights can result in serious injuries, harm owners and handlers, and even cause injury to mares and foals.
How Are Stallions Managed Properly?
Stallions that have been domesticated can be trained in several different ways so they can be properly managed. The training regimen for the horse is dependent upon his personality and temperament, the region where the horse lives, and the philosophies of the owner and the trainer.
Before anything else, a stallion must be trained to learn how to behave around all humans with respect. Stallions are naturally aggressive and have an urge to dominate their surroundings. Without training, a stallion will often bite at people as a way to protect himself or to express that dominance.
Confinement and isolation is one of the most common methods of management, but this may not be the best option. Horses are social creatures and human contact, though better than nothing, is not the same as having other horses around. For that reason, more handlers are moving toward what is known as the harem management model.
By allowing the pasture to be managed instead of the stallion, the horse has the opportunity to behave like a horse. Even if a bachelor group is formed with geldings and other stallions, the aggressive behaviors can often be tempered. There tend to be fewer negative stable behaviors or habits that develop in the harem management model as well.
It should be noted, however, that the natural instincts of a stallion may overcome the training they have received at any time. Common sense must always be used when working with these horses. For that reason, only a handful of breeds permit children to be working with stallions and even fewer permit children to show or ride stallions in competition.
Disadvantages of Natural Management Methods
The primary disadvantage of the natural management methods for stallions is that the foaling date for mares can be somewhat unknown. Although they receive more exercise that stallions that are kept in the stall, it is more difficult to manage the predictability of offspring and that can put the health of a mare at risk.
With proper training, stallions can often work with mares without difficulty, but again – the natural instincts of the horse can overwhelm the training at times. Even in highly regulated settings, such as those at the Spanish Riding School where Lipizzan stallions are managed, the occasional management problem does come up.
Stallions of a breeding age are the most likely to exhibit challenging behavior.
When stallions are provided enough space, and are given enough food, then they can find a way to live peacefully. Even stallions that have been used for breeding can coexist with each other in a bachelor herd when there are enough resources available to them.
Stallions can be challenging, but they can also be wonderful. It is always important to focus on the good qualities of the horse so the unwanted behaviors can be properly managed.
The Quarter Horse is the most popular breed in the United States. Nearly 3 million living horses have been registered with the American Quarter Horse Association from 2014 data, which makes it the largest breed registry in the world.
Although the Quarter Horse earned its reputation on the racetrack, it has evolved into an excellent all-around performer. You can find the Quarter Horse performing at rodeo events and horse shows. Many ranchers still use this breed for their working horses. That is because the Quarter Horse is well-suited to the intricate tasks and fast maneuvers that are required for riding events, disciplines, and modern ranch work.
How Did We Get the Quarter Horse?
Horses arrived in the United States with European colonists, beginning in the 15th century. As the colonies began to establish themselves and become independent, those who settled in the New World began to import Thoroughbred horses. The horses that came from the first explorers were developed into regional breeds by local tribes and these horses were bred to the Thoroughbreds.
That was how the American Quarter Horse came about. There are Arabian, Barb, and Iberian ancestors to this uniquely American breed.
By 1746, the colonies were self-sufficient and exploring the idea of independence. There was also a love for flat-track racing beginning to develop. A Thoroughbred named Janus was imported and he would contribute a strong foundation to create a Colonial horse breed that was smaller and quicker than a Thoroughbred, with an extra level of hardiness.
That allowed the colonists to have a work horse during the week and a racing horse during the weekends when races were held. Even when racing champion Thoroughbreds, over a distance of one-quarter mile, the Quarter Horse could still excel. Its popularity continued to grow.
By the 19th century, the idea of manifest destiny had reached a fever pitch in the United States. People descended upon the US West to establish a home, find riches, or their own personal reasons. Many of those settlers brought Quarter Horses with them because the breed is willing, hardy, and an easy keeper.
As the settlers pushed West, they realized that there were herds of Spanish horses roaming wild around the countryside. Some homesteaders were able to capture some of these Mustangs and decided to breed them with their Quarter Horses. The offspring had a unique “cow sense” that made ranch work easier.
At the same time, the tribal cultures in the US West were still creating their own regional breeds, sometimes keeping extensive oral records of breeding habits and standards. As these horses mixed in with the Quarter Horse, the speed, strength, and “cow sense” continued to improve. The horses were so stout and sturdy, in fact, that Europe took notice. Quarter Horses began to be exported back across the ocean.
To ensure that no genetic bottleneck would occur, Morgan and Standardbred bloodlines were added to the Quarter Horse breed in the 19th century as well.
In 1940, the American Quarter Horse Association was formed to support ranchers and homesteaders so their pedigrees could be preserved.
To this day, Thoroughbreds are still admitted into the Quarter Horse stud book. To qualify, however, a Thoroughbred must meet specific performance standards.
\n\nFollow the leader #farmandranchlife #cdnag #quarterhorse #snowmakesemfrisky #EYPhoto @DualECattleCo pic.twitter.com/raR5knAgPk
— Erin Yewsiuk (@eslashphotog) November 2, 2017
What to Expect from a Quarter Horse
Modern Quarter Horses can be somewhat small compared to other horses. The breed standard accepts horses as small as 14 hands, which qualifies them as a pony. Some stallions can be 16 hands high or taller. Quarter Horses that come from England can be as tall as 17 hands in some instances.
There are three sub-types of Quarter Horse in terms of body style: stock, halter, and racing.
Stock Quarter Horses tend to be stocky, compact, and very muscular. They are agile, have the trademark speed of the breed, and are sure-footed. Halter horses tend to be a little taller and have a smoother muscular appearance to them, resembling a Thoroughbred.
Hunting and racing horses tend to be the tallest horses and they also retain many of the physical characteristics of a Thoroughbred. Show horses within this sub-type tend to be slimmer instead of stocky and can often be mistaken for a Thoroughbred from a distance.
Quarter Horses can come in a wide variety of coat colors. Sorrel is the most common color, which is similar to a chestnut coat. Black, brown, and bay are also somewhat common coat colors for the breed. Other solid colors, including palomino and cremello, are possible. Dun and roan coats are also permitted.
In the past, Quarter Horses were not allowed to have a spotted coat. The registry now accepts spotted horses as long as both parents are registered with the breed association and DNA testing can verify the parentage.
Thoroughbreds and Quarter Horses: An Ongoing Relationship
From the first days as an established breed, the Quarter Horse stud book has incorporated Thoroughbred horses. There is an appendix section within the stud book that includes first-generation crosses of Quarter Horses and registered Thoroughbreds. An appendix Quarter Horse and a numbered Quarter Horse also produce offspring that are treated as a first-generation crossbred.
Horses that are registered in the appendix are still allowed to enter competition, but are not permitted for full registration. Only when an appendix horse can prove itself through performance can it earn its way out of the appendix to become a numbered Quarter Horse.
Thoroughbred crosses have occurred throughout the history of the breed, so the genetics between the two breeds have gone back and forth frequently. Some breeders have concerns that this may limit the viability of the Quarter Horse as a distinct breed in the future. To counter this trend, some breeders are focusing on the traditional characteristics of the breed to promote the earlier standards found in the “foundation” horses.
\n\nBlue Roan Quarter horse...one day pic.twitter.com/KcyzvRvrLi
— Sharan Bajwa (@fitsikh) November 13, 2017
Health Concerns with the Quarter Horse
The Quarter Horse is prone to several different genetic diseases. To limit the prevalence of these disorders, the American Quarter Horse Association has stopped allowing the registry of horses that possess specific genes. DNA blood tests are available to determine if an individual horse is at risk of many of these diseases as well.
It is believed that some Quarter Horses carry the gene for Lethal White Syndrome. This is despite the fact that crop-out horses were not permitted to register. The gene is recessive and continues to appear in some foals, despite screening efforts to have it excluded from the gene pool.
A stallion named King P-234 is believed to be responsible for the introduction of GBED. This disease causes the horse to lack an enzyme that is required to store glycogen. Without glycogen, the skeletal muscles and heart of a foal cannot function properly. The disease only occurs in foals born from parents who both carry one copy of the gene.
HERDA can only be transmitted if both parents carry the gene for it as well. This genetic disease disrupts the stability of the collagen in the skin of the horse. Any rubbing or impact to the skin can cause it to split, separate, or tear off the animal. Horses that are born with this condition are usually euthanized before the age of 4.
Malignant hyperthermia is a mutation that is specifically associated with the Quarter Horse and any other breeds where the Quarter Horse is involved. The hyperthermia can be triggered by stress and overwork, as well as certain medications.
HYPP is also associated with the Quarter Horse and is linked to a stallion named Impressive. Affected horses will exhibit uncontrolled muscle spasms and twitches, along with substantial muscle weakness that can lead to paralysis. Only one parent needs to have the gene for HYPP to have it be passed along to their offspring. Any Quarter Horse born after 2007 or one that has a confirmed lineage through Impressive must be tested. Any with the H/H form of the gene are excluded from the registry.
The Quarter Horse is popular because it is such an intelligent easy keeper. These horses love social contact, a good day of work, and some healthy competition. Even if they aren’t formally raced, it is not unusual to see Quarter Horses holding their own formal races if there is enough space.
It may not be the first American breed, but it could be argued that the Quarter Horse is the best breed that has been developed in the United States. As this breed continues to evolve, the many benefits of working with a Quarter Horse will only improve.
]]>What is a gelding horse? It is a male horse that has been castrated. Geldings can refer to adult male donkeys or mules as well.
Many horses, especially purebreds, are evaluated for their conformity and performance to determine if they meet breed standards. If they score high in these evaluations, then they’ll be permitted to contribute to the diversity of the breed. If they do not score high, then breeding rights are withdrawn.
Unless there is an expectation that a male horse will be or has a good chance to be used for breeding, it should be castrated as soon as possible. Male colts can be gelded before their first birthday. All that is required is a descending of the testicles into the scrotum.
History of Gelded Horses
Gelding is a procedure that has been carried out for thousands of years. Some of the first written works that describe gelded horses come from Aristotle. His writings are dated around 350 BC.
The Scythians are thought to have gelded their horses as well and it is thought that this civilization may have been the first to emphasize this procedure with their herds. The Scythians noted that gelded horses were calmer on the battlefield. They were less prone to call out to other horses, allowing for a strategic attack.
Geldings were also easier to keep in groups since they were less likely to fight each other.
\n \n#SanJuanRanch Sale Horse
— San Juan Ranch (@SanJuanRanch) November 13, 2017
SJR Stepin Diamonds: 2015 Cremello Gelding (CD Diamond x Shanias Lil Step)
Big boned, and very athletic colt. NRHA Nominated & NRBC enrolled. Has been in training with Casey Deary. No video at the current time. $6,000. Call Angela 682-215-5895 pic.twitter.com/d5sXS2EWSi
How Are Horses Gelded?
The gelding procedure is rather simple. Many horses can be treated with what is called a “standing castration.” The horse is given a local anesthesia and is sedated. Then a small incision allows the testicles, a portion of the spermatic cord, and the epididymis to be removed.
Only a veterinarian is permitted to carry out this procedure. In most instances, the veterinarian can come to the horse to perform the procedure, but some may require a visit to the local clinic.
Caring for the horse after the procedure is fairly straight-forward. The incision area must be kept clean. The horse should rest, but still be permitted to have light, supervised exercise. It is not unusual for owners or handlers to hand-walk horses after they have been gelded for the first week. It’s a good opportunity to look at the incision site to see if there are signs of swelling.
Antibiotics are usually prescribed to proactively prevent an infection setting in after the surgery. Some owners may need to implement a fly-control procedure to keep the area clean while the horse recovers.
Most horses recover from being gelded without any complication. Infection or having the incision open are the two most common complications that are seen.
It usually takes 3-4 weeks for the horse to heal normally from the gelding procedure. It may take another 3-4 weeks for the testosterone levels in the horse to reduce so the behaviors of the horse are impacted.
Although gelding is considered to be a permanent procedure, in some instances, it may be possible to reverse it. Some geldings only have their cord and testicle connections severed, not removed, so repairing the cord can restore the horse to full stallion status. Although rare, there are several documented instances where this has been successfully accomplished.
Geldings are often reversed to reduce a severe bottleneck within a breed.
Unless there is a complete removal of the reproductive components, a gelding has a very small chance of producing offspring still.
\n \n5 years gelding warmblood horse for sale with really good price. pic.twitter.com/zIOj3qCiCg
— Joly Xie (@XieJoly) November 1, 2017
Why Should Gelding Be Done Early?
Stallions can also be gelded, but the results are not always the same. Once the horse is castrated, there is a change in the hormones that are produced within the horse’s body. They tend to be more even-tempered after being gelded, especially when it occurs at a young age. If older horses are gelded, they may retain some of the unwanted stallion behaviors because their bodies were exposed to a surge of testosterone.
Gelding early can also change the development profile of the horse. Once high levels of testosterone are produced, stallion characteristics, such as a crested neck, begin to develop. Gelding can stop this process.
The lack of testosterone that occurs with gelding can also stop aggressive or dominant behavior from developing within the horse. Most geldings are not interested in the act of breeding, which limits behavioral confrontations that can be dangerous to horses, handlers, or their owners.
Gelding a horse can also prevent mood swings that come with the seasonal changes. Horses are a herd animal, so there are certain months where they have an urge to be free and roam. Once gelded, those seasonal urges are reduced. That makes them easier to ride and handle, making it a safer choice of horse for those who are just beginning to learn horsemanship.
Because a gelding horse cannot procreate, there is never a worry about having unwanted offspring. It allows the best horses to be kept for breeding without diminishing the individualized value of each horse.
Why Should Gelding Be Done Late… If at All?
Gelding early can minimize behavioral issues with male horses and lower the risk of problems developing with a home herd. The benefits of a calmer horse come at the cost of having a horse that doesn’t have the same levels of athletic prowess and impact.
For owners who are looking for a horse with stallion-like qualities, but don’t want to take on the risk of an unintended pregnancy, gelding later in the horse’s life can be beneficial. The horse will retain the stature developed before he was gelded while losing the ability to produce offspring.
Gelding a horse early in its life can also change the growth profile of the horse. It is not unusual for gelded horses to grow taller if the procedure occurs early in life compared to later in life.
Some horses also suffer from a condition called “cryptorchidism.” These horses are called “rigs.” Although they are gelded, it is only a partial gelding because only one testicle descended. Rigs are sometimes able to produce offspring and will often retain many stallion-like qualities. To be a full gelding, a second procedure would be required. This can be avoided when male horses are gelded later in life instead of in their early years.
What is a gelding horse? It is a good option for anyone getting to know a horse for the first time. Many geldings are friendly, affable, and easy keepers – no matter what their breed may be. That is why they are recommended for beginners.
]]>Most gaits are referred to as an “ambling” gait. These movements tend to be a 4-beat gait, creating a smoother ride while being able to maintain speeds that are faster than a walk, but often slower than the canter. All horses have a gait that they follow; however, a gaited horse performs an ambling gait that is specific to the breed.
In a 2012 DNA study, a mutation to the DMRT3 gene in many gaited breeds can be attributed to a single ancestor. This mutation controls the neurological circuits within the spine that are directly responsible for limb motion and movement.
That allows some gaited horses to perform the ambling gait from birth. Others can be trained to perform the gaits. It is not unusual for a gaited breed to trot and pace while having the ambling gait at the same time.
What Are the Different Types of Ambling Gaits?
Every ambling gait has 4 beats. That means only one foot is off the ground at any time when the horse is performing the gait.
Some ambling gaits are diagonal, which is defined as having the feet on the opposite sides of the horse move forward in sequence. That would look like the right rear leg moving forward first, then the left front, followed by the left rear and then the right front.
Other ambling gaits are lateral, which is defined as having the feet on the same side of the horse move forward in sequence. In this instance, that would look like the right rear leg moving forward first, then the right front leg, followed by the left rear and then the left front.
Unless there is a genetic ability for an ambling gait, it is rare for a horse to be able to learn these gaits. Horses that have coupling in the back tend to perform lateral ambling gaits with greater ease that horses with shorter backs. Having laid-back shoulders and a good stride length can be helpful for some gaited strides as well.
\n\nI'm still dead I cannot believe somebody thought this was a GAITED horse 😭😂 pic.twitter.com/lIwmNiZJr9
— X, Halt, Salute (@diyarabqueen) September 2, 2017
What Are the Different Gaits That Can Be Performed?
Although the ambling gaits are grouped into two general categories (lateral and diagonal), there are several different gaits that can be performed. Each has unique traits and attributes which help it to be identified.
Here are the most common ambling gaits that can be seen in today’s gaited horse breeds.
Aphcal: This is a natural ambling gait that is directly associated with Indian horse breeds, such as the Kathiawari and the Marwari.
Fox Trot: This is the only diagonal ambling gait that is found in English riding. The footfalls are a bit uneven, which causes the beat to sound like a couplet than a 4-beat rhythm. The fox trot isn’t as smooth as other gaits, causing a slight bounce and movement while in the saddle. It is directly associated with the Missouri Fox Trotter, but several other breeds can perform this gait. In some breeds, this gait is penalized when showed because it appears that the horse I trotting from the back, but walking in the front.
Marcha Pacada: This is a 4-beat lateral gait that is similar to a stepping pace that is directly associated with the Mangalarga Marchador. A 4-beat diagonal gait, which is called the marcha batida, can be performed by this breed as well that is similar to some of the paso gaits. The Carolina Marsh Tacky performs a 4-beat diagonal gait that is very similar to the marcha batida as well.
Pasos: There are several ambling gaits that are associated with the Paso Fino and the Peruvian Paso. All have a distinct rhythm, but are performed at various speeds. The paso fino gait is slow and precise. The paso corto is faster, but still slower than a canter, and is much like a single-foot gait. The paso largo is closer to a rack and is the equivalent of a gallop to other breeds. The paso llano is a lateral gait that has the same sequence as a running walk.
Rack: The rack is a single-foot gait that is found most often with the American Saddlebred. It is a slower gait than some other ambling gaits, but is performed with precision and restraint. The intervals of each beat are rhythmic.
Running Walk: Walking horse breeds perform this gait, which has the same pattern as a walk, but faster. It creates a smooth riding experience like the walk as well, but at greater speeds. Some breeds, such as the Tennessee Walking Horse, can achieve short-distance speeds of up to 20 miles per hour.
Tolt: This ambling gait is usually found with Icelandic horses. It has good speed, with rapid acceleration, while incorporating the smoothness found in gaits like the running walk. There are uneven versions of this ambling gait that can be seen as well, called the Valhopp and the Pig’s Pace, that are considered to be incorrect. Another version of the Tolt is called the “flying pace” and is a stronger version of the gait.
Trocha: This gait is associated with the Paso Fino. It is a diagonal ambling gait that is similar to a fox trot in style and speed. It is seen more often in the Colombian version than the Caribbean version of the breed. The steps are just a little shorter than the similar gaits.
\n\n#Wrangler #TENNESSEWALKER #gaitedhorse #myboy #❤ pic.twitter.com/ZoN5AHYrwR
— cowgirlusa (@cowgirlusa3) December 6, 2016
Which Horse Breeds Have Ambling Gaits?
Horse breeds that are known for their ability to gallop do not possess the gene that is associated with ambling gaits. That means they are unable to perform them.
Horses that live in a semi-feral herd or are wild horses, such as the American Mustang or Przewalski’s horse, do not usually have the mutated gene for ambling gaits, but it is possible. Not all horses with this gene mutation have the ambling gait either, which means there are other traits associated with gaited horses that may not yet be known.
Because there are trotting bloodlines with the Standardbred and the presence of the ambling gait gene seems to inhibit the transition to a gallop, ancient breeding practices may have helped to influence gaits within the foundation breeds of gaited horses.
What is a gaited horse? It is a chance to enjoy a smooth ride on a friendly, but still spirited, horse and that makes it the perfect opportunity for beginners to learn how to ride. It is also a chance to help people who love horses to stay active without a bounce in a saddle that could put their health at risk.
]]>Lameness in a horse is usually caused by some sort of pain. It can also be the result of a mechanical dysfunction or be part of a neurologic condition.
It is one of the most common veterinary health issues that is treated in horses, especially those that are involved in racing, competitive events, or recreational riding. It is also one of the costliest health concerns within the equine world, including loss of use and the time it takes to diagnose and treat the condition.
What Are the Causes of Lameness in Horses?
Pain that is caused by an injury or an orthopedic disease or condition are the most common causes of lameness. Laminitis, which affects the hoof of the horse, is particularly common. Horses which are highly active, overweight, or suffer from a metabolic condition may all be at a higher risk of suffering from laminitis.
Additional causes of lameness that are due to pain include circulatory disease conditions, infections, genetic conditions like HYPP, or age-related conditions like arthritis.
When pain is the primary cause of lameness, treating the condition which causes the pain will usually resolve the lack of movement. This may involve treating the affected area, offering painkillers to the horse, and other specific tasks that may be prescribed by the treating veterinarian.
Mechanical lameness occurs when there is an abnormality which affects the movement of the horse. Scar tissue, for example, may build up within a joint and that would prevent the horse from completing a normal movement motion. The difference between mechanical lameness and other forms of this condition is that the mechanical version does not typically cause pain to the horse.
Most forms of mechanical lameness do occur because of a previous injury. Tendons may stiffen, scar tissues may form, or other issues may cause the horse to stop moving its forward or hind legs properly. Even damage to the horse’s muscles from something as simple as an injection can result in mechanical lameness.
The other form of lameness in horses, neurological lameness, occurs when the horse becomes lame, but there is no immediate cause for it that can be seen upon evaluation. Certain forms of muscle atrophy or a condition like Shivers or Stringhalt may cause this form of lameness as well.
What Are the Signs of Lameness in Horses?
A horse that manifests a change in its gait in any way may be suffering from lameness. Hind leg lameness is often more difficult to spot than front leg lameness from a visual standpoint, but by knowing how the horse moves, either form of lameness can usually be spotted by a vigilant owner or handler.
When lameness is affecting the front leg or foot, the most common sign the horse will offer is a bobbing of the head. The horse will raise its neck and head whenever the leg affected by lameness hits the ground. That helps to remove some of the pressure off the affected leg. Horses may also try to lessen the impact felt on an affected leg by stiffening the limb just before it hits the ground.
If the lameness is affecting only a hind leg, the signs of the condition can be very subtle. Look for changes in performance to the hip, pelvis, and sacrum especially. The horse may tend to shift its weight to avoid placement on the affected leg or hoof and that may alter the direction of its gait slightly as well.
Some horses may “hike up” their hips to reduce the amount of pressure that is placed on a hind leg affected by lameness.
Additional signs of lameness include lengthening the stride to reduce time on the affected leg. Some horses many angle their gait forward or backward, depending upon where the discomfort or issue with lameness is occurring.
And the most obvious sign of lameness is that the horse decides not to move at all. Even when standing, they may refuse to put any weight on the affected limb.
\n\nSuffolk Punch duo Wilf and Stanley will be spending the winter at our Horse Hospital while Wilf is being checked over for some lameness issues and the woodchips at Redwings Caldecott are being renovated. We look forward to them returning to the visitor centre in the New Year! pic.twitter.com/z5TOENHhyk
— Redwings (@RedwingsHS) December 5, 2017
Why the Hoof Is So Important
A majority of lameness issues that are seen in horses originate at the hoof. When being examined for this condition, the balance, shoe, wear pattern, and shape of the hoof will be looked at closely. The presence of a crack or sheer may be the cause of lameness.
If a horse is suffering from chronic lameness, the shape of capsule may alter because it is bearing a different amount of weight. That creates a heel that is higher, narrow, and more upright compared to the “normal” hoof.
When laminitis is present, there may also be changes to the shape of the hoof wall. A mild case of laminitis may not show any outward symptoms, but growth rings on the hoof will indicate the presence of an infection.
The shape and size of the frog and the shape of the bars are also good indications if there is laminitis or an infection present that may be causing lameness.
How to Prevent Lameness in Horses
Preventing lameness in all cases is an impossible task. When cared-based best practices are followed, however, there are many times when lameness can be stopped before it starts.
All horses should visit a farrier regularly to have their hoof care managed. Most horses will require visits every 4-6 weeks. Some horses may be able to go for an extended period if they are not shoed or ridden on a regular basis. Horses that see high levels of activity may need to visit more frequently.
The hoofs of the horse should be picked clean on a regular basis as well. Not only will this remove foreign objects that could initiate an infection, it will also allow handlers and owners to inspect the hoof wall to see if cracks are present.
If there is the presence of pus or a foul-smelling black fluid around the hoof or the frog, then the hoof must be cleaned immediately and medical care given to the horse. These are indications that an infection or laminitis is present.
Keeping a horse at a healthy weight will also help to prevent lameness. Ensure the horse is receiving a good combination of grains and pasture time without high-load calories being introduced to the diet every day. Hay is usually better than alfalfa or clover and certain grain combinations can provide a lower carbohydrate mix for the horse that reduces the chances of weight gain.
Any horse may experience lameness, including horses that are active and healthy. By recognizing the symptoms and taking preventative measures, it may be possible to stop this health issue before it starts.
Two registries have formed to help support the Spotted Saddle Horse, founded in 1979 and 1985. One has an open stud book, while the other requires a semi-closed stud book as part of the registration process. For the latter, at least one parent must already be registered with the association for a foal to be eligible for registration, no matter what the quality of the horse happens to be.
This breed always performs an ambling gait instead of a trot, along with a walk and a canter. Not being able to perform this gait, even if other conformation characteristics are present, is treated as a fault that prevents registration.
Origin of the Spotted Saddle Horse
The pinto ponies and horses that came from Spanish ancestry were deliberately crossbred with breeds that were distinctly American, like the Standardbred and the Morgan. The American horses were larger than the Spanish horses, but breeders want to have the coat patterns and variations that were found with the pinto coats. By crossing these two together, larger horses with patterned coats could be developed.
The breeding process that created the Spotted Saddle Horse began soon after the American Revolutionary War at the turn of the 19th century. After the completion of the US Civil War, additional gaited breeds were added to the bloodlines. Missouri Fox Trotters, Peruvian Pasos, Paso Finos, and even Spanish Mustangs were brought into the breed.
The purpose of breeding was to create a general recreational horse that could be used in the Appalachians. Most of the horses during this era were bred first for the pinto coloration, however, and then for the physical characteristics.
Breeding programs may have been formalized at the local level from 1866-1978, but they were never any conformation standards in place to help forward the development of the breed. The National Spotted Saddle Horse Association (NSSHA) was the first to form, in Murfreesboro, was the first to form. They are very adamant about the care and well-being of the horses in this breed. Action devices are completely banned, including any weight around the pasterns. Performance packages are also banned.
The second association, the Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders’ and Exhibitors’ Association (SSHBEA), formed to help push the breed forward without the open influences that are sometimes seen with an open stud book.
\nAnd this is an 18 month old spotted saddle horse filly who was thrown into the deal, she was neglected and needs some TLC and a name! pic.twitter.com/wFBYZPgDam
— Courtney (@CourtneyWRocket) January 30, 2017
What Are the Characteristics of the Spotted Saddle Horse?
The Spotted Saddle Horse is classified as a light riding horse. The minimum height expectation for the breed is 14.3 hands, although some individuals may reach a height of 16 hands. Most horses will weigh about 1,000 pounds, with a 100-pound variation on either end of the spectrum still accepted.
The NSSHA was register horses in their stud book as long as the horse meets a minimum height requirement of 13.3 hands.
The head of a Spotted Saddle Horse should be well-refined, offering a straight facial profile. A slightly convex profile is still listed as being acceptable. This head should be supported by a neck that is slightly arched and noticeably muscled, which leads to shoulders that slope and a chest that is visually muscular. The hindquarters of the horse should be broad and muscular, while the croup should slope slightly and be rounded.
In many ways, the visual standards and physical characteristics that are expected of a Spotted Saddle Horse are similar to what is expected of a Tennessee Walking Horse.
Pinto coloration is 100% necessary, with white spots being present on a background coat color of any color. Most Spotted Saddle Horses have a tobiano or overo pattern. The spotting can be very minimal on some horses, but be almost complete on others.
If a horse has verified parentage that would make it be a Spotted Saddle Horse, but it has a solid coat color, then it can still qualify for registration as breeding stock. This will verify the parentage for any offspring the horse may have in the future. Gaited mares and stallions qualify for this registration as well. Breeding stock registration is not considered a “full” registration with either registry.
The NSSHA also requires Spotted Saddle Horses to have an ambling gait instead of a trot to be registered, along with the pinto coloration. If those two characteristics are present, any breed may be present within their pedigree. Missouri Fox Trotters, Racking Horses, and Tennessee Walking Horses are allowed for registration. Even horses with undocumented parentage is allowed if the required characteristics are present.
For the SSHBEA, registration must include at least one parent in the pedigree that is already registered with the organization. Even if all characteristics are met, if one or both parents of a foal are not registered, then SSHBEA approval will be denied.
\nIntake Alert: Homer the blind Clydesdale and Troy, the spotted saddle horse are safe at the harbor. #rescue pic.twitter.com/Ehem9ysccq
— Safe Harbor Rescue (@SafeHarborSanct) December 7, 2016
What Are the Gaits of the Spotted Saddle Horse?
Instead of the trot being the intermediate gait for the horse, a Spotted Saddle Horse performs an ambling gait. It may be a show walk, which is a 4-beat gait, with the horse reaching a peak speed of 8 miles per hour in some instances. The show gait is similar to the show walk, but is at a faster pace for most horses. Some individuals can reach a top speed of 20 miles per hour with this gait.
The canter is a 3-beat gait with the Spotted Saddle Horse, typical to most equine breeds.
Some horses within this breed are able to perform variations of an ambling gait that can be seen in other breeds. This includes a stepping pace, the rack, a fox trot, and a single-foot gait. The pattern of the foot fall is what differentiates the performance. As long as one of these ambling gaits is present, the horse will qualify for NSSHA registration.
Spotted Saddle Horses are sweet, kind, and usually possess a willing temperament. They tend to be curious, but they also prefer to be active. These horses love to put on a good show and love having attention showered upon them. That makes them an excellent competitor in certain sporting disciplines and why they are such a popular recreational riding horse.
Spotted Saddle Horses have a well-developed history, purposeful characteristics, and standards that must be followed to ensure the integrity of the breed. With their unique coloration and wonderful spirit, the horses within this breed are a pleasure to get to know.
]]>Shires originated in England. Their foundation, like most heavy draft horses, is believed to go back to the Destriers. Called the “Great Horse,” the calm disposition of this large horse, along with its ability to not spook easily, made it an attractive war horse for the armies of Medieval Europe.
Over time, as conflicts subsided, the heavy nature of the Shire made it an attractive investment for farmers and those in agricultural work. One Shire could pull a plow, take the family to town, and perform a wide range of jobs. They were often considered to be part of the family, with some even getting to live in the home with their owners. This led to the development of a close relationship between this breed and humanity which still exists today.
How Has the Shire Evolved Over the Last Century?
The last century has brought about several incredible technological changes. We’ve gone from using horses for carriage work and driving to driving automobiles. Farmers use tractors instead of horse-drawn plows. Lumberjacks have heavy equipment to haul logs now instead of relying on the strength of a Shire.
These changes have threatened all the heavy draft breeds, including the Shire. This has led breeders to work on refining the breed so that it can be adapted to the modern world. There is still a need for a work horse, especially in difficult areas where mechanized equipment cannot go, but those areas are growing fewer with each passing year.
Today’s Shire has had Clydesdale influences to help it become taller and improve the quality of the feathering. There has been an emphasis to include show ring qualities with this breed as well, including hock action, knee action, and added height.
Yet the Shire horse temperaments have remained virtually the same throughout the entire improvement process. It is still a calm and gentle breed. There will always be individualistic exceptions to that rule, of course, but in general terms, the Shire is an excellent family horse that is ready and willing to put in a good day of work.
\nWhere's our dinner? #shirehorse pic.twitter.com/67zW2MqLzc
— Croots Farm Shop (@crootsfarm_shop) May 15, 2017
What to Expect with a Shire Horse
The Shire is one of the largest heavy draft breeds in the world today. Several Shire horses have been listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the tallest horse in the world. One of them is a horse named Sovereign. In 2013, he was measured at just over 20 hands, making him the tallest horse in the country and competitive with the world record holder.
Sovereign is just 0.75 inches shorter than the current world record holder. Because Shires can keep growing well after their seventh birthday, there is always a chance that a new record holder could be crowned.
Despite this propensity for size, breeders are seeking to create horse that are even bigger. The goal is to create horses that have a gentle disposition, but an imposing presence, so that the best of both worlds can be obtained. You have a massive horse that is friendly and gentle, but will also be very difficult to ignore because of its size.
This size gives the Shire an incredible pulling strength. A team of Shire horses has the potential to pull several tons of weight. Assuming both horses are around 1.25 tons in weight, it is possible for a team to pull over 10 tons over a lengthy distance.
Part of the reason why this pulling strength exists is because the physical makeup of the horse. Shires have wide shoulders and a long neck for a draft horse, which gives them some added leverage when it comes to driving. Their legs are muscular and very clean. Their hocks are set in such a way that they can achieve maximum leverage, especially with their hooves that are oversized and round.
\nA 4 day old shire #horse foal takes his first steps on open ground with his mum at Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park near #Bristol pic.twitter.com/M7CK5FUOBa
— Hans Solo (@thandojo) May 5, 2017
Don’t Be Fooled by an Easy-Going Shire Horse
Shires are known for being easy-going horses. They take life in stride and offer respect before receiving it. Many refer to them as “gentle giants.” The respect that they offer, however, does have its limits.
Shires have a desire to understand what it is that they are doing. They’ll respond to commands because they trust their owners or handlers, but at some point, they also wish to understand why the command is being issued in the first place. Without this information, you can find a Shire can become very stubborn.
Unlike other horse breeds that become stubborn when they sense a perceived lack of respect, there is rarely any aggression that comes from a Shire. This breed uses its size to its advantage. You’re not going to force a 3,000-pound horse to go anywhere or do anything it has decided that it doesn’t want to do. Shires tend to stand still and refuse, putting the onus on the owner to provide an explanation.
And they might not choose to move unless that explanation is received or there is a treat sensed somewhere.
Because Shires are not easily spooked, it can be difficult to overcome this form of stubbornness as well. The goal that most Shire horses have is to be a faithful companion. They are generally well-mannered and work hard, but they will not put up with an owner who doesn’t offer respect in return.
Shire horses are very hardy as well, partially due to their size, but their coat helps a lot as well. They can handle harsh environments, the cold in particular, and they don’t mind being asked to work in difficult locations, like a wetland lumber harvest.
The feathering on a Shire has improved over the past few generations, but moisture and debris still tends to get caught in this part of the coat. Unless addressed, this moisture and debris can affect the integrity of the skin. Shires are stoic horses, but they will show discomfort in this circumstance and may become fidgety or show irritation in other ways.
The Shire horse temperament is one that is highly coveted by horse owners around the world. With the desire to work that only a cold-blooded breed can provide, these calm horses provide a wonderful addition to any family. They are loyal, protective, and willing to do what it takes to maintain a relationship.
]]>An American sub-type of the Shetland Pony has been developed since the 20th century as well. American Shetlands tend to have more refinement to their general appearance. They also tend to be a little taller and have longer legs.
The average Shetland Pony can pull up to twice its own weight and many are able to support a rider that weighs up to 130 pounds. They are also one of the longer-lived breeds in the equine world today. It is not unusual for a Shetland to reach the age of 30.
Nutrition is extremely important when caring for a Shetland Pony. Their size and physical structure makes them susceptible to laminitis, especially when the horse’s diet is primarily carbohydrates.
Today, you will find Shetlands working in a number of venues. They can be ridden by children and make an excellent training horse. They often work at carnivals or fairs to offer a short ride. Some ponies can be trained as a certified support animal, helping individuals with disabilities. Shetlands are routinely part of a petting zoo experience as well.
What Is the Origin of the Shetland Pony?
Small horses and ponies have been kept in the Shetland Isles of Scotland since at least the Bronze Age. It is believed that at one point, the native horses on the islands were crossbred with horses and pones that were brought to the region by settlers from the Norse regions of Europe at the time.
Additional influences from the Celtic pony are possible as well, but it is the natural environment of the region that had the greatest influence on these horses. It is a harsh climate that offers a scarce food supply, so these ponies needed to develop an extreme hardiness just so they could survive.
That hardiness turned the Shetland Pony into an intense worker. Their strength is comparable to horses of a more traditional size. They would carry peat, coal, or pull carts for miners from the 17th century to the 19th century. Many ponies worked underground in coal mines, often for their entire life, which was shortened because of the difficult conditions in the mine.
Even some “pit ponies” made their way to the United States. The first Shetland ponies were exported to the US in 1885 by Eli Elliot. Elliot would begin to improve the breed from an American perspective, bringing in bloodlines from the Welsh Pony, Hackney ponies, and the Harness Show Pony to improve the height of the horse and give it more strength.
It wouldn’t be until 1971 when the final mine using pit ponies would finally close.
A breed registry, called the Shetland Pony Stud Book Society, was formed in 1890 to encourage breeders to produce high-quality animals. The goal was to maintain the purity of the breed despite the high demands for work horses at the time. In 1957, the Shetland Islands Premium Stallion Scheme was formed so that the best registered stallions could be subsidized so that breeding stocks could be improved.
\nPhoto By JACLOU-DL | Pixabay
— Maple the Dog (@theDogMaple) October 14, 2017
#kiss #shetlandpony #doggoldenretriever #dogstagram #dogsofinsta #dogsofig #dogsofinstgram #dogsitting pic.twitter.com/Bhux46hpcF
What Are the Characteristics of a Shetland Pony?
To qualify as a Shetland Pony, the horse must have a minimum height of 7 hands. The official maximum height for the Shetland Pony is 10.2 hands. Different breed registries around the world have different standards on height, however, so there are regional differences. In the US, for example, a Shetland Pony still qualifies for registration at 11.2 hands.
Shetlands have heads that are strikingly small compared to the stoutness of their body. Their faces are sometimes dished. Eyes tend to be widely spaced and their ears are small, but always seem to be alert.
Strength is found within the neck of the horse. It is a short neck, but with good definition, leading to a body that is stocky and very compact. The cannon bone is shorter than average when comparing the size relation of the horse, but the back is broad and the girth is deep universally within the breed.
A Shetland Pony will grow a thicker winter coat to help withstand the colder weather, supported by a thick tail and a thick mane. The double coat falls out before the warmer months.
The coat can be almost any color within this breed. The most common colors seen are black and chestnut, with bay, gray and roan somewhat common. Dun, cremello, pinto, or silver dapple coats are also possible. Shetlands do not carry the leopard spotting gene like Appaloosas do or the champagne gene, though some horses do have a coat color that is similar to breeds that do have that genetic profile.
Despite their size, Shetlands are cold-blooded in their temperament and personality. They are patient with children, intelligent by nature, and usually possess a willing spirit. There are some individuals that have low patience levels with circumstances they do not like, which can cause the horse to become uncooperative. These horses are often described as being “opinionated” or “snappy.”
Training is important for the Shetland Pony. Because of their size, many owners tend to inadvertently spoil their horses. Should this occur, some individuals can become very headstrong and demanding.
Differences Found in the American Shetland Pony
Beginning in 1888, just 3 years after the first written records of imports to the United States, the American Shetland Pony Club was formed. It had two stud books that were used, creating Division A and Division B ponies. Shetlands in Division A had 12.5% or less outcross, while Division B had 12.5% or more outcross. If 4 generations of Division A breeding could be proved in the lineage of an individual, then foundation certification would be awarded to that pony.
\n#ShetlandPony mare Impala bringing up a motherless thoroughbred foal💙Thanks for RTs & happy Friday #PonyHour #HorseHour pic.twitter.com/1clerNNGxF
— SHETLAND PONY BOOK (@shetlandbook) October 13, 2017
Since 2009, the division designations have been eliminated from the registration process.
American Shetlands tend to have a neck that is somewhat longer than their counterparts. Their body structure tends to be a little longer and narrower through the back as well. Noticeably high withers are present, along with hindquarters that have distinct power. Shoulders should have a good slope to them so that the horse can show a dynamic level of action.
The American Shetland Pony Club recognizes four specific types of Shetlands.
#1. Modern. These ponies tend to be the tallest of the breed. When shown, they tend to offer a higher head set than the other types. They also tend to have higher stepping action.
#2. Pleasure. These ponies are bred in the same fashion as the modern-type American Shetland, but don’t have the same level of action. It tends to be somewhat more subdued.
#3. Classic. These ponies offer the taller, more refined look of the American Shetland and are treated as being the typical type sought after. They lack the action of the modern-type pony, but have the highest levels of refinement. The classic-type pony also tends to have a gentler disposition and prefers higher levels of social activity with humans.
#4. Foundation. These ponies are classified through their lineage instead of their physical characteristics. A foundation-type pony cannot have any Hackney influence within its lineage for a minimum of 4 generations. All ponies within this type must also be 10.2 hands high or less. These ponies are closest to the international standard for the breed.
For American Shetlands, because it is listed as a sub-type, many owners choose not to register their horse because they believe it does not meet the international standard. American standards are somewhat different, so the American Shetland Pony Club believes there are several more classic-type ponies in the US than their registration numbers indicated.
Differences Found in the German Shetland Pony
Beginning in 1965, German breeders began to import American Shetlands to develop their own sub-type. Their goal was to create a sporting-type of horse using Shetland lineage. They wanted to improve the temperament of the horse, add more refinement to the head, and give it a better gait.
In 2000, the UK registry for the Shetland Pony refused to register any horse with American bloodlines as a purebred. Because of this action, the Germans who had imported American Shetlands begin their own registry.
All coat colors are listed as being acceptable in the German registry, but horses with a chestnut coat and a flax mane tend to be the most common.
Cross registration between the various international Shetland Pony associations and registries is allowed, assuming the pedigree or conformation meets the expected standards in each location. There may be variations within this breed, but one thing is for certain: the Shetland Pony will continue to be a popular breed because of its unique look and brilliant temperament and personality.
]]>Although most horse breeds have been fully domesticated today, including semi-feral herds and breeds, the symbolism of the horse is as important today as it was in the first days of human history.
What a horse symbolizes depends on a person’s culture and individual interpretation of what the animal means to them. A classic example of the differences in horse symbolism can be described by the optics of a white horse.
White horses, in many cultures, have stood for power and wisdom. It is a symbol of freedom, but with voluntary restraint, so that all can benefit. It provides a picture of being able to remove the obstacles that lie in your path so that you can achieve whatever goals are important to you.
In Christianity, the white horse is a symbol of victory.
“Then I looked on as the Lamb opened one of the seven seals. I heard one of the four living creatures say in a voice like thunder, ‘Come!’ So, I looked, and there was a white horse. Its rider held a bow and was given a crown. And he went forth from victory to victory.” – Revelation 6:1-2.
Horse symbolism goes beyond the animal. The color of the horse’s coat has significant meaning in many cultures. The patterning of the horse’s coat can be equally important. Even the placement of curls or swirls in the coat can have meaning to some cultures.
No matter what the symbolism may be, it is important to always remember one universal truth: the horse is representative of the spirit, but is not the actual spirit. Horses may serve us and as a species, we may consider them domesticated, but a horse will never be truly tamed by humans.
And we would have it no other way.
\n\nLife in Black and White
— Amy Kate (@AmyKate8LFC) November 13, 2017
Horses in the field
Galway, Ireland 🇮🇪 #blackandwhiteonly #blackandwhitephotos #blackandwhitepics #blackandwhitechallenge #ireland #Galway #GalwayBay #ireland🍀 #IrelandCalling #horses #travellingthroughtheworld #travel #travelphotography #travelgirl pic.twitter.com/9HUxxF4pv6
Tribal Cultures and Horse Symbolism
Tribal cultures throughout the Americas have often focused on the horse. Although each tribe, either Native American, First Nations, or otherwise, can have different meanings for what the horse represents, much is communicated about each culture by how they view the horse.
For the tribes in the United States, the horse was a symbol that represented strength and power. Horses would also represent love and loyalty, providing a symbol of mutual respect between two people, two families, or two tribes. It could also represent mobility, stamina, and devotion.
For the tribes in Canada, horses symbolized a transformation of life. This transformation was not always a positive representation. It was the Colonial Era that brought horses back to the Americas and many of the “explorers” were really conquerors. The horses were embraced when they were found, but the presence of a horse could also mean that war would be starting soon.
What is unique about both cultures, in general terms, is that the horse was always treated as an equal. Horses were treated with the utmost care. They would share homes and rooms with their caretakers. They were rarely fenced or bridled. The horse wanted to be there and the tribes formed relationships with them to create a society of mutual trust.
Yet the concept of power, as symbolized by the horse, could be seen in some tribal cultures as well. If one tribe had horses and another did not, then the tribe with horses had a natural power advantage. They could win more battles, conquer more territory, and even be more successful when hunting. For that reason, the horse can symbolize war, just as it can also symbolize peace.
Mythology and Horse Symbolism
Horses have been sacred symbols throughout much of our history, including our mythologies. Various cultures throughout time have come up with remarkable stories and links to unique and meaningful symbols to specific cultures.
For the Romans, who at one point ruled much of the known world at their height of power, linked the horse to Mars, who was their god of war. They also linked horses to Helios, who was their sun god. Although they were symbols of battle, the Romans rarely employed war horses. Most horses were used for pulling chariots or carrying supplies. There was a mystical component, but a practical one as well when considering the horse.
The Romans evolved their symbolism of the horse from the Ancient Greeks, who happened to revere the horse. Horses in Ancient Greece were symbols of status. If you owned a horse, then you had power and wealth. If you wore the symbol of a horse, then you could be bestowed with those attributes. Horses were directly associated with their gods as well, with Poseidon being credited with the creation of the world’s first horse. Athena was credited with domesticating the first horse.
In Celtic mythology, horses were considered a sign of good fortune. They would bring about good luck, whether they were owned or their image was being displayed. White horses were particularly favored. If several horses were seen standing together, however, then this was an indication that there was a storm, real or figurative, that was about to come.
\n\nBarely saved him from a plastic bag in his field. Those things eat horses, you know. 🙈🐴😂 #horselover #writerslife pic.twitter.com/OD5luzDyAm
— Sydney Scrogham 🦄 (@sydney_writer) October 26, 2017
Colors of Horses and Their Symbolism
Many modern cultures have based their interpretation of horse symbolism based on passages found in religious holy books. It isn’t just a white horse, for example, that is mentioned in Revelation 6. There are different colors of horse associated with each seal.
Red Horses: “When the Lamb opened the second seal, I heard the second living creature say, ‘Come!’ Out came another horse, fiery red. Its rider was allowed to take peace from the earth so that people would kill each other. He was given a large sword.”
Black Horses: “When he opened the third seal, I heard the third living creature say, ‘Come!’ So, I looked, and there was a black horse. Its rider held a balance for weighing in his hand.”
Green Horses: “When he opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth living creature say, ‘Come!’ So, I looked, and there was a pale green horse. Its rider’s name was death, and the grave was following right behind. They were given authority over a quarter of the earth, to kill by sword, famine, disease, and wild animals.
The natural question that comes next is usually this: when was the last time anyone saw an actual green horse?
“Green” doesn’t necessarily represent an actual coat color, though some holy book passages may imply this. Horses that are “green” are new to training or education and are very inexperienced. These horses have their own symbolism to consider as well. Foals are often a representation of a new undertaking and suggests that something happy or fortunate will occur in the near future.
Some horses have multiple coat colors and these patterned horses have their own symbolism to consider as well. There is an old folk poem that talks about the sock patterns of a horse.
If a horse has one sock, then buy him.
If a horse has two socks, then try him.
If a horse has three socks, then doubt him.
If a horse has four socks, then do without him.
Yet some cultures, especially nomadic ones, felt that a horse with four socks was incredibly lucky. Of course, that perception only applied if the horse’s stockings didn’t rise above the knee or the fetlock.
Markings of Horses and Their Symbolism
Some horses have different markings on their body, especially on the hooves. Horses might have whorls and other swirls in their coat. Even the eye color of the horse can prove meaningful to the symbolism of the animal.
Horses that have white hooves have often symbolized weakness. Over the generations, white hooves have even been avoided because people believed that the hoof was physically weaker than other colors. This may be due to the fact that it is easier to see a crack in a white hoof than it is to see one in a dark or striped hoof.
Certain whorls and their placement on a horse symbolize certain qualities as well. Horses with multiple swirls on their forehead are a representation of difficulty. Some whorl placements indicate good luck. Other placements indicate bad luck. The quantity and location often depend on the culture.
Horses with blue eyes are a representation of trouble for many cultures. That’s because there is a perception that blue-eyed horses tend to be more temperamental than other horses.
What do horse symbolize? That is up to you. Whether you base your perception on ancient cultures, your religious faith, or your personal experience, it is important to remember that every horse deserves a chance to live a happy life. Some horses might represent bad luck in some cultures, but let’s face it: we’ve been friends with horses for forever.
Maybe it’s the relationship that is more important.
]]>Horses happen to have one of the largest eyes of any land-based mammal. Because it is a “prey” animal, horses have active vision throughout daylight and nighttime hours. With the position of their eyes, on each side of the head, a horse has about 350 degrees of total vision, including 65 degrees of dual-eye vision.
Every horse breed has dichromatic vision. That means they are not color blind, but have two-color vision. In comparison, humans have trichromic, or three-color vision. Horses can see green and blue colors within the spectrum, but are unable to distinguish red colors. That makes their vision be similar to what red-green color blindness is like in humans.
The reason why horses have two-color vision is because there are two types of cones in their eyes. They have a cone that is sensitive to short wavelengths that senses blue colors well, while the longer cone is sensitive to colors in the yellow-green spectrum. One explanation for this development is that horses tend to be active from dusk until dawn, when this type of color discernment is most important.
Just as horses struggle to distinguish red colors, they can struggle to distinguish between yellows and greens.
What Is Notable About the Vision of a Horse?
Horses may only have two-cone vision, but they have a very high proportion of rods within their vision structure. Horses have a 20-1 ratio for rods to cones, which works with a retroreflector called a “tapetum lucidum” that allows the eye to find definition and color in low-light conditions. That is how horses have such excellent night vision.
The size of the eye for horses allows them to detect movement with greater regularity as well. Changes can be sensed very well in conditions with low light levels, allowing the horse to sense danger and respond appropriately. In low light, horses can distinguish shapes. In virtual darkness, they can still see enough to navigate safely in virtually any situation. Humans, on the other hand, would struggle to adapt to the conditions and stumble into obstacles that the horse could avoid.
\n\nNo matter how much he misbehaves, one look in those big brown eyes and he's forgiven. #horse #Monday #peterKaram pic.twitter.com/FL4lBCZO7A
— peter karam (@Peterkaram729) October 30, 2017
At the same time, the ciliary muscles for horses is relatively weak when compared to other land-based mammals. That means the eyesight of the horse has a poor accommodation when attempting to focus on specific objects. Horses usually track items of interest at a distance, so there is relatively little need to track items at close range, so this aspect of their vision is usually not a disadvantage to the horse.
Horses are very sensitive to motion. It is their first alert, in most circumstances, that a potential predator is approaching. Horses use their periphery vision to detect the initial motion and then move to track it with their visual acuity. Because they must track the movement after it has been detected, horses tend to tilt or raise their heads so a better understanding of what they say can be obtained.
That is why a horse can be “spooked” easily sometimes. If a potential threat is detected and the horse cannot track it, then their natural instinct is to run away from the danger.
What Is the Structure of a Horse’s Eye?
The eye of a horse is not shaped like a sphere, nor does it have a ramped retina. It is somewhat flattened in shape, moving from the anterior to the posterior of the eye. The wall of the eye for a horse is then made up of 3 specific layers.
The nervous tunic is the retina of the eye. It contains cells that are extensions of the brain, working with the optic nerve to generate an image. The receptors in this layer are receptive to light, allow the horse to see in dichromatic tones, and provide night vision. About 70% of the horse’s eye can receive light, so the receptor cells do not cover the entire interior of the eye.
The vascular tunic, which is also known as the uvea, contains the iris. Much of the pigment within the eye of a horse is contained in this layer, especially within the choroid. It helps to form the reflective layer that gives the horse a superior level of night vision, reflecting the light back to the nervous tunic layer. The iris is situated between the lens and the cornea, providing a specific eye color for the horse and helps to control the pupil as well.
\n\nMeet a Horse Monday: Allie! Allie started her life as a strong, sure footed trail mount and has become a lovely and reliable part of the herd at Hearts & Horses focusing her time as our primary vaulting mule. Allie has lovely long ears and kind eyes. #HopeHorsesHealing pic.twitter.com/skeicZStmn
— Hearts & Horses (@HeartsnHorses) November 13, 2017
The fibrous tunic contains the cornea and the sclera of the eye. These protect the structures of the eye. The sclera, which is the white part of the eye, is comprised of collagen and elastin. In horses, the cornea is regularly coated in lacrimal fluid and a clear fluid called “aqueous humour” to provide it with nutrition. The fluids contain low levels of protein, in a consistency that is similar to blood plasma, and this helps to support the structure of the eye.
What Color of Eyes Do Horses Have?
Most horses have eyes that are dark brown. The iris of a horse can be a wide variety of colors, however, ranging from amber and green to blue and hazel. Blue eyes in horses are often associated with white markings on their coat. Pinto patterns are often linked to blue eyes. When the coat color is the direct link to eye color, a horse may have one blue eye and one iris of another color. Both eyes may be blue or both eyes may be part-blue as well.
The eyes of the horse are then protected by a unique eyelid that is composed of three tissue layers. The outer layer is a thin skin layer that is protected with hair. The middle layer is composed of muscle tissues, allowing the horse to blink. The inner layer, called the “palpebral conjunctiva,” lies against the eye. These layers work with a nictitating membrane that closes diagonally over the eye so the cornea can be protected.
Horses may not be color blind, but they do not see colors in the same way humans do. Because they struggle to distinguish between greens and yellows and do not discern red colors well, an understanding of how a horse sees can make it easier to work with and interact with the animal on a regular basis.
]]>What causes a horse to begin bucking? Is it really a problem behavior? Or is it a natural instinct that overwhelms the training of the horse?
Horses Can Buck in Several Different Ways
When most people think of bucking, they picture a horse that places its weight on its front legs. Then the horse raises the back legs upward and kicks out backward with as much strength as it can muster.
Some horses may buck multiple times with varying levels of height and strength with a similar motion. Others may choose to use short kicks instead of long and powerful kicks as part of their bucking technique. Some horses prefer to buck while they are running. Others prefer to buck when they are standing still.
There can even be a twisting motion included with the bucking. Some stallions can jump and twist with so much strength that it appears they are performing a pirouette. Being caught on the back of a horse that is in the midst of a powerful buck can be a scary and potentially dangerous situation.
That is why knowing what causes the horse to buck is such an important part of the riding process. Whether one is an expert or a beginner, understanding the reasons behind bucking can help to keep this behavior under control.
Do Horses Buck Because They Think It Is Fun?
Bucking is a natural form of play for horses, especially young male horses. If you see a herd of bachelors out in a pasture playing together, there’s a good chance you’ll see some playful bucking going on.
That mechanism is similar to the way some dogs play with each other by biting on another. The behavior may cause harm, so it may be unwanted, but the purpose isn’t to cause harm. The horses just want to have fun.
Bucking can also be a response that is generated by fear. Horses have a very intense fight-or-flight mechanism. Although we see them as being large and intelligent creatures, horses have a prey mentality. They are in a state of perpetual nervousness, especially if they are not used to human social contact and have large pastures without protective features for them.
The first instinct of the horse is to run away. If the horse feels like it is cornered or there is no place for it to go, then fighting is the only mechanism left for survival. That is when running turns to bucking.
Bucking is often seen as being an aggressive behavior, and it can be if the horse is attempting to establish dominance with people, horses, or other animals. Bucking, however, is often a defensive mechanism. It occurs when the horse cannot run from a fight and it is fearful of what may happen to it.
That’s why “breaking” a bucking horse by riding it is usually not a good idea. Although it may cause the horse to give up, the breaking process doesn’t resolve the fear issue that caused the horse to buck in the first place. You literally have a broken horse that doesn’t care if it survives in this situation. Is that really the right approach?
\n \nMy Domino" looks mad today but made the ride more exciting🤪#Horse #Love #Fashion #PhotoOfTheDay #BlackBeauty #HorseLovers #tbt #lovelife #lovetoride pic.twitter.com/SJzjYYUj22
— Taylor_Mann_NYC (@taylor_mann_nyc) November 30, 2017
Bucking When It Happens Because of Discomfort
Horses may also begin to buck, even when there isn’t a personal history of it, when they experience something that makes them feel uncomfortable. This may be their hide rubbing uncomfortably against a saddle or blanket; a command from a rider that they don’t want to follow; or an issue that causes them to feel frightened while outdoors on a ride, like encountering a snake on a trail.
For many horses, bucking tends to be a one-off experience. It happens because a specific event triggered the behavior. If that trigger can be avoided in the future, then the bucking behaviors will not reappear.
Bucking becomes a problem, especially when it is associated with discomfort, when it occurs in a frequent or persistent way. Horses that buck frequently tend to experience a lower trigger threshold over time as well, which allows the bucking to be easily elicited.
Discomfort can lead to the initial bucking behavior, but it can also become a learned behavior that the horse relies upon. If bucking provides relief of the discomfort on repetitive occasions, then the horse will rely upon the behavior to find future relief as well. That can be particularly dangerous to riders if the horse feels uncomfortable with the presence of a saddle.
Can Bucking Be a Behavioral Problem?
Bucking that is caused through negative behavior reinforcement can turn into a behavioral problem instead of an environmental or discomfort response. The horse can learn that bucking stops them from being subjected to other unwanted actions or activities.
Let’s say a horse is being taken in from the pasture. It doesn’t want to go because, like many horses, it is investigated something that has piqued its curiosity. As the owner, you are insistent that it is time to head into the stall. You grab the lead and just as you’re about to walk the horse, the bucking begins to happen.
What happens next? If you stop trying to bring the horse in, then the horse has just learned that bucking will let it get what is wanted. You were stopped in your action. Maybe bucking the next time could gain some extra oats? More pasture time? So, the behavior will increase.
Learned bucking can be retrained. Alternative behaviors can be offered to the horse and understanding triggers can foster a deeper relationship with the animal. By anticipating when they will occur and how it will happen, discomfort can be eliminated. Unwanted activities can be avoided. That can reduce the pressure the horse feels, which will eventually lead to it lashing out in some way.
It is important to remember that horses have a sense of humor. Some might buck just because they think it is funny. They have no concept of the danger that their kicks may cause. Unless there is a clear discomfort trigger or the bucking is a clear response to an unwanted action, a good approach to take is to assume the horse is bucking because it wants to play.
That means it is a social response. Give the horse more time, teach it alternatives to gain your attention, and you may very well see a cessation of the unwanted bucking behavior.
]]>Knowing what horse hooves are made of makes it easier to understand how to care for the feet of the horse. There are several different components of which one should be aware.
#1. Hoof Wall
The hoof wall is similar to a human fingernail in that it is always growing. Over the course of 12 months, the average horse will be able to grow an entire new hoof. That is why a good farrier is worth their weight in gold.
The hoof wall is comprised of keratin. Keratin is a fibrous structure, composed of proteins, and it is very insoluble. Even human skin contains high levels of keratin to help it form a strong, tough external layer of protection.
Because keratin has a low moisture content, it feels rough and very hard. Some breeds have an extremely low moisture content in their keratin, which provides a superior level of hardness for all-weather and all-terrain movement.
There are 3 layers within the hoof wall.
Each layer does a specific job to help protect the foot and leg of the horse during movement. When shaped correctly, the horse should be able to bear all of its weight on the hoof wall. To support this weight or lend more movement to the horse, shoes can be attached to the hoof wall.
#2. White Line
This portion of the foot can be found where the sole and the hoof wall form a junction. It has been given this name because it is the guide used for nailing a horseshoe to the hoof wall. If the nails are placed closer to the sole, then the horse may experience discomfort.
It is important to inspect the white line on occasion because the keratin in the hoof can split at this junction. Should that happen, an infection occurs and this creates a condition that is referred to as “seedy toe.”
#3. Sole
The sole of the foot on a horse is the undersurface of the hoof itself. For this part of the horse hoof, the materials are one-third water, so it is softer than other portions of the hoof wall. The structures of the sole, however, are very similar to what can be found on the actual wall.
Because the sole is softer, it is more prone to injury. If consistent pressure is placed on this structure, it may bruise or tear, which would cause lameness to the horse.
What is unique about the sole of a horse is that it varies in thickness. At the white line junction, the sole tends to be at its thickest point. As it moves inward, it begins to thin out somewhat.
The sole tends to have a concave shape to it as well, which helps to further protect the hoof from injury. The rear feet tend to have more of a curvature in most breeds when compared to the front feet.
\n\nBig horse with big hooves :o pic.twitter.com/FOLWqyyPPk
— Walk Through Nature (@walkwithnature1) October 15, 2017
#4. Frog
The frog of the horse is a very elastic material that is made from half-water. It acts as the shock absorber for the foot, helping to distribute the weight of the horse along the entire hoof wall. It is also designed to help the horse experience better traction in slick conditions so the risks of slipping are minimized.
When the frog is healthy, it aids in localized blood circulation. Its design encourages heel expansion as well.
Unlike other portions of the hoof, the frog of a horse should never be trimmed. Beyond cleaning, only portions of the frog that have flaked off or become loose should be removed to maintain good hoof health.
#5. Bars
The bars of the hoof are the parts of the wall that turn inward from the heel. The structural design allows the bars to surround and support the frog. That means the only function of this hoof structure is to help support the weight of the horse during movement.
#6. Coronary Band
This is the part of the hoof that provides nutrients to the hoof wall. It is what allows the keratin to continue accumulating so the hoof can grow. If this part of the hoof structure should be injured in any way, it can affect the shape and quality of the hoof. Injuries to the coronary band will often create permanent defects in the hoof wall.
\n\nno whisper of love, no trilling of bird, can stir me as hooves on the horse have stirred.
— PhoenixRising (@nicratwoman) June 19, 2017
William Henry Ogilvie pic.twitter.com/17MEWA3wqj
#7. Solar Corium
This part of the horse hoof is sometimes called the “sensitive sole.” It is filled with blood vessels from laminae mesh that help to support the frog. It is paired with the laminar corium, or “sensitive laminae,” which attach to the pedal bone of the horse and together they work to ensure the hoof wall remains healthy. The bonds formed by these hoof structures become disrupted whenever a horse is suffering from laminitis.
#8. Digital Cushion
This part of the hoof is made up of fatty substances that create a tough, but still flexible, support mechanism that sits on top of the frog, but behind the pedal. Its placement allows the horse to experience a reduced level of concussion with every footfall. It also works to encourage blood circulation up and down the foot and leg of the horse.
#9. Hoof Bones
There are two bones that can be found within the hoof of a horse. The distal phalanx, sometimes called the “coffin bone,” is the pedal bone of the horse. It is the largest bone and is shaped like the hoof itself. There is also the navicular bone, which is closer to the heel and adjacent to the pedal bone, that acts as a support mechanism for the horse. Like most bones, this portion of the hoof is primarily composed of calcium.
#10. Lateral Cartilage
The lateral cartilage of the hoof slopes upward from the pedal bone, reaching to the placement of the coronary band. When weight is placed on the cartilage, it becomes compressed and forces circulation from the veins of the hoof back toward the heart. When that compression is released, more blood then enters the veins found in this part of the hoof structure. There is a condition called “sidebone” that occurs when the lateral cartilage transforms itself into bone.
Horse hooves are complex structures that require knowledge and experience to care for them properly. By keeping the keratin healthy and encouraging good hydration, the hoof of a horse can be one of its best assets.
]]>Breeding programs for the Westphalian have, in fact, greatly influenced the sport horse world. Sires such as Polydor have helped to make significant improvements in dressage and jumping since the 1980s.
Although the history of the Westphalian horse is quite rich, much of it has been lost because of records destruction. World War II decimated the known lineage of this breed, reducing it to what people and breeders could offer through oral histories. Because of this, there can be some confusion as to what horses are officially Westphalian and which are of other German Warmblood breeds that may have similar standards and expectations.
It can be particularly confusing because in the early days of this breed, the region responsible produced three different horse breeds that were officially supervised and sanctioned by local government that are very similar to one another.
What Is the Origin of the Westphalian Horse?
The history of the Westphalian horse is directly linked to Warendorf, where a state stud was established in 1826. This stud was intended to serve Rhineland and Westphalia, build under the guidance of the Prussian Stud Administration. The goal was simple: to improve the breed efforts already underway in the region. Formal horse breeding had been happening around Westphalia since at least 1713.
State studs and Principal studs were both directly supervised by the Prussian administration, herding mares or purchasing stallions so that horses could be bred to meet the needs of that specific region. Stud fees were often low, subsidized by the government, to help local farmers be able to grow their own herds and eventually support the breeding project while also tending to their own workloads at home.
Many of the first Westphalian stallions that came from Warendorf were similar to the Trakehner breed. Cavalry and riding horses with Thoroughbred lineage were desired because they had the energy and personality to handle the difficult local agricultural terrain. Over time, as agricultural needs increased, the size of the horses required an increase as well. This caused the Westphalian to shift toward becoming a medium-sized all-purpose horse, close to a light draft in size instead of a sporting warmblood horse.
As the 20th century came about, farmers in Westphalia and Rhineland discovered that heavy draft horses were better workers in their fields than the heavy warmblood horses. The stud at Warendorf saw the heavy warmbloods replaced by heavy coldbloods, which then made the horses obsolete after World War II because of mechanization.
By 1957, the state stud at Wickrath was dissolved. Warmblood horses were then sent to Hannover, which allowed the Westphalian horse breed to begin repopulating.
The first stud book for Westphalian horses was established in 1888. The next year brought mare and stallion evaluations. Performance tests for horses in the region were first held in 1905. Pedigree records were carefully maintained, but destroyed during and after the second world war.
In 1982, a 100-day test was implemented to evaluate individuals within the breed. Since 2000, jumping-type and dressage-type horses have established two sub-types, though specialization is resisted within the breed. The length of the test has since been shortened to 70 days since then as well.
The Westphalian started as a riding horse. It grew into a working horse. It has now evolved back into a riding and sport horse. Because of these various shifts in priority, there are unique characteristics to be found within this breed.
\n\nThis is Stormy. A very nice and active Westphalian horse 😄 pic.twitter.com/0epYodaZHV
— Grand Prix Dreams (@GrandPrixDreams) July 28, 2013
What Are the Characteristics of a Westphalian Horse?
The Westphalian horse is bred to the same standards as every other German warmblood breed. There is a hefty exchange of Hanoverian and Rhinelander bloodlines within the breed, but this creates a riding horse that has long lines, an appealing gait, and a bold personality. Most Westphalians are well-suited to all types of riding.
There is less refinement in the Westphalian compared to the Thoroughbred, but it isn’t as coarse today as when there were coldblood influences incorporated into the breed. Because of the heavy draft influences, however, there is some added height that can be found in the Westphalian breed compared to other warmblood breeds. Some stallions can be taller than 17.2 hands.
Most Westphalians will usually stand between 15.2 and 17 hands at the withers. Individuals typically weigh more than 1,000 pounds, though some stallions may weigh more than 1,300 pounds.
The registry for the Westphalian horse does not have rules about markings or coat color. Chestnut, gray, black, and bay coats are the most common in this breed, but any pattern or color is permitted. Anything by the solid colors with limited white markings along the face and feet, however, is considered to be rare.
Concerns with the Westphalian Breed
In the United States, Rhinelander horses are sometimes presented to breeders or potential owners as Westphalian horses. Although it is true that the two stud books use the same approval process and require the same standard, along with them sharing the same state stud, the breeds are distinct. It is important to pull the lineage of a potential Westphalian before purchase in North America to verify its bloodline because of this.
Another method of determining true Westphalian lineage is to look for the official brand on the horse. Although branding has been made illegal or is highly discouraged throughout much of the equine world, a crowned shield which has the letter “W” is placed on the left hip of the horse when it is awarded papers at its foal show.
— Jessica Freiman (@dressage247) February 8, 2015\n\n
The Future of the Westphalian Breed
In 2007, there were 500 young stallion prospects that were presented to breed association pre-selection events in Rhineland and Westphalia. Only 20% of the stallions which were evaluated were invited to complete the primary licensing process.
One of the challenges that the breed faces is that there is no official scoring method that is followed when evaluating stallions. Everything is done based on personal observations by a judging committee based on how a colt appears to be fit and of a breeding quality.
To confirm the quality, the final step of becoming an approved stallion within the Westphalian breed is to perform. This creates a multi-step evaluation process that helps to remove horses that may be carriers of congenital disease from the breeding stock. That means Westphalian horses tend to be healthy, sound, and live long and fulfilling lives.
German Warmblood horses may be plentiful, but there isn’t a breed that is quite like the Westphalian. They are good riders, excellent sport horses, and have a superb quality of movement.
]]>Today, the region is called Yasnaya Polyana.
Responsibility for the breed has shifted to Germany. Inspections for the breed are held annually in Neumunster every October. The jumping, temperament, ability, gait, and more of each stallion is full evaluated. If the horse passes, then a full breeding license is awarded.
What makes the Trakehner such a unique breed is that it is often used to refine other breeds. You can find Trakehner bloodlines in Arabians and Thoroughbreds because there are fewer risks to the offspring of these first-generation horses. At the same time, influences from Hanoverian, Oldenburg, and Dutch Warmblood breeds have helped to refine the Trakehner.
Trakehner horses compete in almost every discipline. They are particularly skilled at dressage and perform well in eventing due to their unique characteristics for a warmblood breed.
History of the Trakehner Horse
During the Middle Ages, the Prussia and the Baltics were known for producing horses that were very hardy. Many of these horses made their way into the cavalry ranks or were used for carriage horses. As war spread around Europe in the 13th and 14th centuries, these horses came along with their crusaders and conquerors.
Many of these first horse would be considered small and primitive by today’s standards, but the military horses would become the foundation of the Trakehner breed.
In the 14th century, the Teutonic Knights worked to breed their own military horses. Their offspring were coveted by farmers in Ostsiedlung and Masovia because of their intelligence and willingness to work. Their fame soon began to spread throughout the region, so by the 17th century, Royal Prussia was using these horses for a wide variety of tasks throughout the region.
King Frederick William I was particularly fond of the characteristics that these horses provided, so in 1732, he established the Trakehnen stud. Forest land was cleared by the Pissa River to establish the stud and it was kept under royal guidance until 1786, when it transitioned into being state property.
When the state took over the stud, they looked to refine the breed further. Over a 20-year period, beginning in 1817, Turkoman, Thoroughbred, and Arabian horses were brought to the stud. These efforts eventually brought about the foaling of Tempelhuter, who was the son of the Thoroughbred Persimmon, and almost all Trakehner horses can trace their lineage back to these two stallions.
Some of the faults of the Thoroughbred breed began to creep into the Trakehner during this period, which is why the Arabian bloodlines were added. To encourage regional breeding, farmers were encouraged to bring their mares to the stud as well. In 1918, more than 60,000 mares were being bred annually through the state stud program.
At that point, the modern Trakehner began to take shape. After the end of the first world war, treaties limited troops in Germany to just 100,000. Breeders began creating heavier horses that were better suited to farm work instead of war. That created a heavier build, but retained all the traits and characteristics that made the Trakehner such a refined breed in the first place.
After the second world war, the official progress of the Trakehner was dissolved and the Trakehner Verband was created. The stud book is currently closed.
\n\n#eventerproblems - when your weirdo horse uses the fence as a salt lick! @eventingnation #warmblood #trakehner #arab #eventer #jumper pic.twitter.com/wM0x9HhPs2
— Jennifer Bement (@rdheadstepchild) October 2, 2016
Expected Characteristics of the Trakehner Horse
A typical Trakehner horse will stand anywhere between 15.2 hands and 17 hands in height. Some mares may be a little smaller and some stallions may be a little taller and still be considered in conformation. Only extreme variances are typically faulted and that usually occurs on the shorter end of the height spectrum. Mares are preferably under 16.1 hands.
Trakehner horses grow rapidly and matures quickly compared to other warmblooded breeds, but should not be saddle-broken until at least the age of 3.
A Trakehner horse can be of any coat color. Black, gray, bay, and chestnut coats are the most common that are seen in this breed. There is an occasional roan horse and the rare tobiano pinto horse that can be seen within this breed as well.
Because of the refined breeding that has occurred with this breed from a centralized stud, combined with its closed stud book, the Trakehner is the lightest warmblood breed in the world today. Many would argue that it is the most refined warmblood breed as well. Although the stud book is closed, certain Arabian and Thoroughbred bloodlines, including subtype Arabian bloodlines such as the Shagya or the Anglo, are also permitted.
Trakehner horses tend to have a rectangular build to their body frame. They are known for having a shoulder that is long and sloping. The cannons are shorter than average compared to other breeds, but the next is longer in length, crested, and should be set well. The hindquarters should be powerful and defined.
The Trakehner has a head that tends to be defined to the point that it seems to be chiseled. The face is narrow down by the muzzle, but slopes upward to create a forehead that is broad.
What the Trakehner horse is most famous for, however, is its floating trot. There is a high level of suspension that occurs within the trot and it should be full of impulsion.
As for temperament, Trakehner horses tend to be more spirited than other warmblood breeds. This is due to the influences of Arabian and Thoroughbred bloodlines. Some individuals within this breed have a personality and temperament that are closer to being hotblooded than warmblooded by nature.
The Trakehner should be trainable, athletic, and have a noticeably strong endurance. They are bred true to type because of bloodline purity, which is why it is such a valuable breed today for upgrading other breeds.
The Future of the Trakehner Horse
By the time the second rebuilding process occurred after World War II, only a few hundred purebred Trakehner horses remained. As Germany was separated into East and West nations, about 1,000 horses were able to cross the border safely, but most were either sacrificed or set free because of the economic hardships that farmers and breeders faced in the years directly after the war.
For the next 30 years, preservation of the breed was an informal priority. It wouldn’t be until the late 1980s when the processes of private, selective breeding were re-established that the exclusivity that this breed has long enjoyed were able to become influential one again.
That process continues still to this day.