Horses's topics - tribe.net

For the ladies

Amy — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:01:54 GMT

This t-shirt made me laugh:

"Horses are God's apology for men."

Hee hee.

posted in Horses - 4 replies

Saddle fitting advice, please.

Amy — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 07:00:30 GMT

One more saddle fit post (my obsession for the week).

I'm trying a dressage saddle for Dolly, and I've got a fit conundrum. She's wide and flat and she always has dry spots beside her withers, even with her super-wide, semi-custom Aussie. So, I got a Thorowgood Cob ("Broadback" in the USA) to try. It came with an extra-wide gullet installed, and it also has the Fish (TM) system where you can slide some plastic inserts along the sides to narrow it a bit. I also got a Wintec Icelandic with an extra-wide gullet.

The Wintec noticeably "perched" in front. A friend grabbed a Wintec gullet measurer and, sure enough, she's wider than their extra-wide. So, that went back.

The Thorowgood sat really nicely on her back right off the bat (got two other riders helping me eye-ball the fit). It's got a nice wide channel as well as a flatter profile to the tree, and it really looked good. I gave it a short try, though not long enough to really get her good and sweaty. Still, it felt like she had some dry spots on the withers.

Today, I compared her wither curve to their chart and she measures as an extra-wide to wide. Their suggestion for "between sizes" is to use the wider gullet and slide in the Fish. They also suggest trying just one Fish if your horse is uneven. Since Dolly's saddles always list left, I popped a Fish in on the left. After cinching the saddle down tight, it popped up in back while lunging. I thought that meant it was too wide in front and, sitting in it, I did feel a little tipped forwards (though not terribly, and it has been years since I've sat in a dressage saddle). I popped in the other Fish and, though it still popped up a little in back while lunging and it was improved. I felt straight in it. But then, after pulling the saddle off after a good, sweaty ride, she's got dry spots!

What gives? Do dry spots always mean too narrow, or could it be an indication of something else? Otherwise, her back felt wonderful--she's usually a little sore in her low back immediately after a ride, and there was absolutely no tension this time, so I'm hoping that means the saddle is at least a step in the right direction.

In other news, the saddle has creases in the flap flocking--it looks like it was stored too long with the flaps folded in. Dover will replace it for me, but all the Broadbacks are back-ordered until September, and I don't want to wait that long. I'll get at least closeout price if I keep it. How big a deal is that? It's below where the dry spots are, so I don't think that's contributing to it.

posted in Horses - 1 reply

Saddle fitting "fun"

Amy — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 16:48:10 GMT

Ah, the joys of buying saddles!

I'm looking for an English/dressage saddle for my mare. Since it's not going to get a lot of use, I'm looking for an inexpensive synthetic. I'd also love to be able to adjust it. Oh, and she's very broad and flat for a little gal. After years of checking, the local English store has never had a saddle wide enough. When I brought in a wither tracing to get the owner's opinion on what to order, she declared my horse "a barrel", lectured me on the inaccuracies of wither tracings, then walked off. That's what I get for trying to shop there. Then I noticed broadback Thorowgoods on close-out on Dover, and the Icelandic Wintec on Stateline. Surely one will fit? (Paso Finos and Icelandics have similar builds and similar gaits).

Wintec: It comes with a medium gullet. Why? Who knows. Granted, I've never personally fitted an Icelandic pony, but they sure look broad to me. In fact, the saddle will only accept up to an extra-wide gullet, so I ordered one to try. I sat in it at home--a bit narrow for me, but not as bad as the Wintec dressage saddles. So, I brought it to the barn and put it on. It perched in front horribly. Thirty minutes, three people, and two broken finger nails later, we successfully swapped in the extra-wide "easy change" gullet. Better, but still too narrow. Again, if it's specially designed for a broad-backed breed, you'd think they would have made it on their wider tree system. So, that's out.

Thorowgood: Ordered it online. Get an email the next day that the closeout price is out of stock, but will be back in in September. In lieu of waiting, they can send me a full-priced one from one of their stores, then give me the closeout price if I decide to keep it. Sounds good to me. It arrives quickly. Again, seat a little too narrow for my tastes and, after some gaiting, I'm feeling rubbed in the wrong places. But, I think I can tough it out for the good fit and adjustability for Dolly--it really does sit quite nicely on her back, and it puts my leg in a great, secure place without feeling forced. Plus, great price. But.....

The flocking along the panels is damaged. It looks like it was stored folded up for a long period of time, killing the flocking in those spots. And, on closer inspection, the "adjustable girth position" feature that it's supposed to have, and even has a tag for hanging from the billets, isn't on the saddle. Like most English saddles on Dolly, the back twists while mounting, and I was really looking forwards to being able to position the second billet further back to help compensate. So, I email pics of the saddle and ask how to get it replaced. They email that it's out of stock until September. I just called back to say, anyway, I wouldn't mind having a little extra room in the seat, so send me an 18" (which was available online last night) instead. Only she doesn't see any other sizes in their system at all, at any time. So, she's going to go check store stocks and see if they can find me a 17 1/2 or 18" that is ready to be shipped.

Ah, the drama...

posted in Horses - 2 replies

English stirrup trick

Amy — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 23:30:45 GMT

Why don't we do this all the time?

Stateline suggested hanging the stirrup leathers underneath the flaps while trying a saddle, to prevent visible rub marks on the flaps. So, I tried it. As an added bonus, it completely eliminated any pinching and rubbing from the stirrup leathers as I rode in just jeans. Plus, no visible marks on the flaps and no flapping stirrups while lunging w/o having to tuck up the stirrups. So, why don't we do this all the time? Granted, it means you can't adjust the stirrups from up top, but, after riding western for so long where you can't do that anyway, I don't find that I miss it.

posted in Horses - 1 reply

"Retired Race Horses Skip Slaughter House to Fight Crime"

Amy — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 15:13:00 GMT

News story at: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,528624,00.html

posted in Horses - 3 replies

bit cleaning

kawakib — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 13:26:10 GMT

What's the best way to clean a bit, should I get those bit wipes, or ? This is for a school horse so putting the bit in the dishwasher or sink isn't an option for me -

posted in Horses - 12 replies

Worst Derby Coverage in 20 years

Amy — Sat, 02 May 2009 21:24:06 GMT

I'm furious. NBC always does the worst horse coverage, but they insist on buying the rights to show them all. Finally letting them have it. Just emailed this to nbcsportshelp@nbcuni.com. If you're also insulted that they think we would actually watch this drivel, please let them know.

---------

To whom it may concern:

First, Nbc.com is nearly unusuable when it comes to trying to find out how to leave comments regarding shows. This leads to the inevitable conclusion that NBC does not care about what viewers actually think and watch.

On the off chance that this is not true, I would like to inform you that your coverage of the 2009 Derby is appalling. I am outraged that anyone at NBC would consider this something that is even watchable.

For some perspective, I am a 29 year old female. I have been watching the Derby coverage live and religiously for over 20 years, save the one year my sister inconsiderately held her wedding during it (I made it home in time to watch the race live, then sat down to watch the recording of the remainder of the coverage). I have recorded every year since kindergarten. In all those 20 years, I have never switched channels, left the room, or even taken phone calls. Friends and family know that they are welcome to watch with me, but strictly no talking, please.

Until now.

After NBC began coverage, coverage began a dramatic decline. It is quite the talk around the barn. Only yesterday, a group of us were complaining that, whereas ABC's coverage concerned bios of horses, riders, and trainers, and basically everything else that a horse racing fan would care about, NBC seems to think we actually care about owners and (for some inexplicable reason) "celebrities".

But still, I have always watched. After all, I have never missed in 20 years.

This year, I have just suffered through some ditsy celebrity show host explain how she picks horses based on their rumps, watched Paris Hilton agonize over her hat choice, and Al Rocker make a fool of himself (as usual). By the time you began a "cooking section", I changed channels for the first time in over 20 years. When I went back, you were on to some "red carpet coverage". I cleaned up the sewing room, then got my laptop to write this email. As I type, Jay Leno is now trying to teach children how he picks his race horse. It is too insulting and painful to even watch--I just switched to a PBS cooking show, my blood boiling.

DO YOU HONESTLY THINK THAT ANYONE IS EVEN SLIGHTLY ENTERTAINED BY THIS DRIVEL? DO YOU HONESTLY THINK THAT YOUR KEY AUDIENCE, THOSE FANS OF HORSE RACING, ACTUALLY CARE IN THE SLIGHTEST HOW AN ACTOR PICKS THEIR HORSE? ARE YOU INTENTIONALLY ALIENATING YOUR KEY DEMOGRAPHIC? IS YOUR COVERAGE EVEN WORKING OR ARE YOUR RATINGS PLUMMETING AS WE VIEWERS RECOGNIZE YOUR COVERAGE AS SOME CONFUSED, SLAPPED-TOGETHER NONSENSE TO FILL SPACE?

I will not tolerate this disgusting poor level of coverage next year. Next year, I will just watch the race on YouTube and leave you and your sponsors in the dust.

Most Sincerely,
Amy Boyle

posted in Horses - 0 replies

canter movement from a dancer's perspective?

kawakib — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 13:29:59 GMT

Especially BlissDancer since we're both bellydancers - the more I hear from or read about it, the more confusing all the decriptions are of the hip motion. I'm probably overthinking the hip motion, trying to get it to feel right -

posted in Horses - 16 replies

Horse Toes...

Angelia_R — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 17:27:48 GMT

After giving my quarterhorse a $85 pedicure, my Ferrier mentioned how soft her feet were, and that may be part of her tenderfoot problem, as well with my Appy (who dosnt get shoes, I dont know that she's ever had them in her 25 years, she was a rescue)
The both have white feet, and are not stable horses. Are in pasture with full access to the barn...

SOOO... my Ferrier recomended a "new" product... Keratex they have a website and its www.keratex.net

I did a little research, and emailed the company and got SOOPER DOOPER customer service, answered all of my questions, and even advised me that I didnt need two different products, just one, and that it would do double duty and take care of issues that the other does, plus some...

I'm ordering some...

I went and found some online reviews, and each one said the same thing.. "works fast and works well"

Does anyone here have any experiece with it???

posted in Horses - 1 reply

Relocating Horse Vet Needs Job

feyfern — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 22:45:51 GMT

Hey all you equine fans!
I'm a horse vet, finishing my internship at the Ohio State University come July... so I'm shopping for a job!
I would love to move to the west coast, specifically N CA, Portland (OR); AZ or NM. I'd prefer somewhere relatively warm, as I have a bit of a tough time with the cold.

I'm from MA originally, though many of my family members are out west. I went to Tufts for vet school. I am equine only, but of course am willing to help out other species. I prefer ambulatory work, that's what my internship has been and it's a lifestyle I like.

If anyone gets a tip on an opening please let me know. I have my resume ready to go. It's a tough job market out there and a lot of places don't tend to advertise... since I can go just about anywhere (no hubby or kids, just cats and one pony) I have no real restrictions, and that makes looking tougher! Where do I START???

any help is welcome!
thanks!

Jessamyn

posted in Horses - 3 replies

The Humane Society is taking donations and looking for homes for these rescued horses in PA

Cosmic Consciousness — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 21:31:14 GMT

http://video.aol.com/video-detail/washington-pa-area-humane-society-rescues-30-horses/2585610489

posted in Horses - 0 replies

Great free rope halter pattern

Amy — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 01:00:13 GMT

It worked great! And, at .23 a foot for rope at Ace, I got a spankin' new, custom-fit halter for less than $5.

http://www.naturalhorsesupply.com/tiehalter.shtml

posted in Horses - 7 replies

Horse toy recommendations?

Amy — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 21:03:16 GMT

Well, my mare has decided to sneak in one more injury this year (b/c, apparently, falling in the trailer and hurting both front legs, then pulling a hind suspensory in her stall just weren't enough...). Now she's gone and torn a piece out of her interdental space and bruised up her gums. And, once again, she managed it all by herself overnight in her small paddock. My best guess is that she must be bored and getting herself into trouble, despite having a fairly large stall in a mare motel, a neighbor, and a good view of all the comings-and-goings in the main riding arena and turnout pastures. I'd just turn her out 24/7 with some friends if I could, but that's not possible at this barn.

So, I'm thinking of trying toys again. I bought one a year ago that hung from the ceiling with a flavored insert, and she wouldn't acknowledge its existence. Anyone have any luck amusing their horses with toys? What do you use?

posted in Horses - 8 replies

"A Dramatic Rescue for Doomed Wild Horses of the West"

Amy — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 20:32:11 GMT

Great news from yesterday.

"A Dramatic Rescue for Doomed Wild Horses of the West"
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/11/17/AR2008111703680.html?g=1

A friend emailed me that this meeting was streaming live online yesterday on *HORSE POWER
WEBSITE ( http://www.nvhorsepower.org ), but I missed it.

posted in Horses - 5 replies

my first ride alone!!

kawakib — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 14:18:04 GMT

Just wanted to share my excitement! I rode alone for the first time the other day, in the arena. I believe my teacher was watching from her house a short distance away, but still it was so amazing. I traded work for an extra ride in between lessons.
That was a big step for me!

posted in Horses - 7 replies

leather chaps

prairie sage — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 15:00:02 GMT

does anybody else use them?
I got my first pair the other day. I don't know why I never did before, I guess I thought the full chaps would be restricting, somehow.
the full chaps are so worth the investment. the difference is INCREDIBLE! I will never ever ride in anything else again. it helps me stay in position better, I have better feel of the horse, I feel so much more secure!
if you've never tried them. I highly recommend them!

posted in Horses - 3 replies

Favorite Horse Quotes

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 19:24:19 GMT

"Riding a horse is not a gentle hobby,
to be picked up and laid down
like a game of Solitaire.
It is a grand passion"

---Ralph Waldo Emerson

posted in Horses - 17 replies

horses need homes!!

samarasun — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:25:14 GMT

Beautiful registered quarter horse mares, foals and others need placement by the end of November-

www.theanimalifarm.com

I got one of these horses last year- great experience.

posted in Horses - 0 replies

Advice on buying a new horse

latteberry — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 15:00:26 GMT

I've been leasing horses for a while, but am ready to buy one for myself *again* after a long time of being officially horseless. With all the online resources today, where do you find that there is the best selection (I live in the greater Seattle area). And what do you suggest to do when looking at prospective horses-- the proverbial "kicking the tires" test? Any advice would be helpful!

posted in Horses - 20 replies

Posting up, heels down

Amy — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:35:43 GMT

It's been years, but I finally took a lesson at the trot., since my little gaited girl is still recovering from a pulled ligament (no idea how that happened..). It went a lot better than I feared, but I was having an awful time trying to keep my heels down while posting. I remember having all sorts of mental images that used to help me keep them down years ago, but I've forgotten them all! Any advice?

posted in Horses - 15 replies

Maiden mare' s udders leaking serum

Amy — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 17:47:54 GMT

Hmmm... any one else noticed this? A few days ago, while cleaning my mare's udders, she was excreting a noticeable amount of clear serum from both teats--I could "milk" her and fill my palm. A couple days later, she was dry. I clean her udders regularly, and while I've noticed an occasional drop or two, it's never been anywhere near this amount. I asked some other mare owners, and they've never seen that happen in their mares. I've been hunting around online, but most of the references I've found to maiden mare's udders excreting serum involve udder infections, and include discolored discharge, heat, and painful swelling, none of which she had. One article by a vet said he's seen maybe four or five mares in his practice with this, and it was believed to be spring grass and hormones. Well, she has been getting more hand grazing lately and the boys were eyeing her that day....

posted in Horses - 0 replies

Safe to move in winter?

zappadoodah — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 21:21:51 GMT

Hey y'all!
Soo...I'm making the plunge and getting a horse of my own. I'm in school right now doing horse training (all natural methods) and I love what I'm learning in school, but I desperately want to have my own horse to explore the woods around me and ride in my free time to practice what i'm learning in school. Anyways, my roommate has her horse here in a 9 acre pasture with a small 2 stall barn/shelter. A good friend of mine has a small arabian that she cannot keep, but he is great. 7 years old, total sweetie! She would like me to have him, but he's down in Tucson AZ and I'm living in CA near Tahoe. I'd like to bring him up here in december, but I'm afraid that it is too severe of a climate change. He is in northern arizona on pasture right now until late october, so he's roughing it already and probably building a winter coat. I could blanket him at night here too. Any thoughts? Am I pushing it too quickly? I don't want to risk his health. Thanks a bunch!
Calico

posted in Horses - 1 reply

Caudal Muscle Strain

Aniysa — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 14:55:25 GMT

My horse has a Caudal Muscle Strain in his hind leg.
Has anyone's horse had this too?
I found on the web it may take a year to a year and a half to see improvement.

The vet said I could start light work with him, trotting and canter. On trail rides
we shoud try to avoid hills.

Any advice?

posted in Horses - 2 replies

premarin foal named Glory needs a home in Florida

Elle — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 22:05:25 GMT

or somewhere around there =p she's going to be gigantimous :)
http://www.petfinder.com/petnote/displaypet.cgi?petid=10984292

posted in Horses - 0 replies

Transition TIps

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 16:36:14 GMT

Nope, not the moving gait variety.

I am moving a 25 y/o horse off the pasture where she's been kept for the last several years. She'll not have to compete for food anymore (good thing), but she'll be losing the massive acreage which she's been accustomed to (not so good thing). I'm not stalling her, but the new space is about half an acre as opposed to many, many acres. She'll have one companion, a younger gelding, instead of several other mares.

Do any of you have any tips to help make this transition easier?

posted in Horses - 4 replies

Join in - Monty Roberts

maja_the_bee — Fri, 10 Feb 2006 08:56:43 GMT

I was just curious. How many of you know about Monty Robert's work called "join in"?

He brought a whole new idea of dealing with horses to the world, and in my oppinion, this idea should be spread out for the benefit of both horses and horse people. I'm not so much with horses right now, even though my heart beats for the moment I return to these lovely creatures, but I sure made mistakes with them which could be avoided if I heard of this guy before, or, even better, if my trainers did.

Let me know what you think, and for those who never heard of him, please do some research. You and your horse deserve it.

Maja

posted in Horses - 33 replies

Chiropractor in Portland

just4fun6464 — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 00:56:24 GMT

Hi all,

We have 2 horses in need of adjustments I believe. One our old man Pedro about whom I have written here. He is a 20+ year old rescue and wonderful, he seems a bit sore on his back and his L hip has always been higher than his R. Next our 10 year old mare took a bad fall a few months ago and while she seems sound she has a few sensitive areas on her back.

We live south of Portland but welcome any recommendations about vets in the area you have used.

posted in Horses - 0 replies

shy to be mounted

feyfern — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 23:30:42 GMT

Hey all! Training question here: my Connemara, Lian, has a quirk I really want to work on... he gets weird about tacking up, and then will shuffle away when I try to mount. usually I resort to having someone hold his head, and push him against a fence so that he can't move too much. Otherwise he's incredible, very sensitive and responsive, and enjoys the ride. We suspect that when he was sent away to be 'broken' a few years ago (before I got him), someone was rough with him- he was gelded late and is high spirited (but again, very respectful and responsive.) I want to work with him on this... we are already working on the tack issue- I go really slow, let him sniff, walk him up when he backs up, talk to him the whole time. I think I will just take a few days to take the saddle on and off again and again and make it into a fun game somehow.

Any suggestions on the training for mounting? I want to do some bareback with him, and trails but I need to trust that I can get back on him wherever we are.

Thanks!

posted in Horses - 13 replies

new rider question

kawakib — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 14:35:19 GMT

I've been taking lessons for about 6 months, but recently noticed a big lumpy bruise inside & down a few inches from my left knee. It doesn't hurt when I'm riding, but I seem to be getting repeated bruising there after at least the last few lessons. And on different horses too.

I guess I'm doing something wrong, or in the wrong position?

posted in Horses - 7 replies

Very cool bareback

neecer — Mon, 05 May 2008 16:36:03 GMT

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XxUGEN9kS9o&feature=related

posted in Horses - 24 replies

Stumbled across...

neecer — Mon, 19 May 2008 00:19:09 GMT

this looking for something else

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/381375/lorenzo_the_flying_french_man/

I want to see this show

posted in Horses - 1 reply

what NOT to do....

prairie sage — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:51:41 GMT

while riding yesterday my horse was being especially grabby at the plants. we spent the first hour of the ride having a tug~of~war, which always ended with him yanking the reins out of my hands, and he was not responding to leg pressure or even my kicking his ribs. which I usually don't have to resort to. so i get the brilliant idea of breaking off a switch from a tree to use. boy did i find a nice one, about 4 feet long and it made the nicest "fwiiip" sound with the littlest flick. I don't use a whip to actually hit with, just having it is usually enough. so ofcourse once again he yanks the reins, I flick the whip, it makes "the sound" (i know it didn't hit him) and he AND the horse behind us come to attention nicely. not 3 steps later he yanks his head & the reins out of my hands again. by now I am fairly annoyed, I flick the whip a little more. well I must have brushed his belly or flank, because he leaps off into a run, jumping, bucking, running, bucking then slams on the brakes and turns to the side. since I am riding bareback, I neatly pop off the side & land on my feet, (a benefit of riding bareback~easier to "emergency dismount") us both coming to a stop together. almost like it was choreographed. to his credit, he then placed himself between myself & the horse behind us, protecting me from him. he really wasn't trying to hurt me, just trying to tell me to get rid of the stick. I still had the stick in my hand when I landed, I probably was bumping him with during every stride of his little buck~a~thon. woops. maybe it was a little to much. Cody 1, Amy 0.
I dropped the stick & got back on. we did get along a little better the rest of the ride, at least.

posted in Horses - 0 replies

Interesting news article

Amy — Wed, 14 May 2008 03:44:30 GMT

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080513/lf_nm/usa_horses_dc

posted in Horses - 1 reply

A cow horse

neecer — Sun, 11 May 2008 17:17:15 GMT

This was fun to watch but the poor horse must be in pain or hating what he is doing as his tail is swishing all the time

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQU8YVHc3iw&feature=related

And yes that was said with ‘tongue in cheek’

posted in Horses - 2 replies

LA horse shows

Fri, 09 May 2008 13:52:31 GMT

Intercolegiate horse show this weekend (May 9-11)at LAEC in Burbank and the Grand Prix is at the end of the month. Good horse watching for all you Angeleanos.

posted in Horses - 1 reply

It's been a long time...

temhair — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 21:14:59 GMT

Hi all,

I had horses for about 10 years, growing up, but it's been a good 5 or 6 years since I've had any involvement recently. To keep a long story short, I just acquired an underweight mare, and her now 4 day old colt. I've got their food situation under control with a high fat/protein feed for lactating mares and creep feeding foals, plus alfalfa and grazing.

I'm comfortable enough with horses to know that I can work things out with the colt, as he's basically a blank slate. Mom, however, is about 5 or 6 and practically a feral horse. She's been a part of a large herd on about 40 acres of land, free grazing with the occasional round bale and grain thrown in for good measure. As far as I know, she was at one point broke to ride and can lead on a halter, but the past 2 or 3 years, she's only been brought in by people for vaccinating and deworming - obviously not very fun stuff.

Before I can really get to baby to start working on things, I want/need to gain Mom's trust. So far I've been sitting out with them while they eat, but any move to get closer or touch is evaded at this point. I've also made sure that I'm the first to "walk away" after they approach me. I'm thinking patience will be my greatest tool at this point, but I was just wondering if any of you had any other tips to help change Ma's association with people so that I can start working with her more easily, and have a better time at getting to the baby for handling.

BTW, although boney, Mom is a beautiful, tall Thoroughbred-esque bay Quarter Horse, and Baby is a little medicine hat Paint/Quarter Horse (same difference, eh?)

Looking forward to your good ideas!

posted in Horses - 5 replies

bareback

prairie sage — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 22:42:11 GMT

while stuck riding inside all winter I went bareback alot. now that it is nice we have been going on the trails this way. it is now my favorite way to ride. although there is so little info! I find bits here & there on the web. to get on I am working on the swing~the~leg hop. today I learned to stand a bit in front of my horse to get a little extra step in before swinging my right leg over. I can do it easy if he is a little downhill, but I have read this should be possible no matter the size of the horse...any other tips?? I keep my pocket full of treats & so far my horse is willing to stand still for me while I practice. I can get it after about 10 tries....
now my concern is carrying water & minimal emergency gear. I am thinking my only option is a hipsack. any other ideas?
the more I practice the funner it is. and my horse is calmer to ride out alone since I have been riding this way. I love it.
so any tips or links or info to share??

posted in Horses - 4 replies

spring riding

prairie sage — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 01:13:37 GMT

Is everybody getting out to ride more? what kind of riding do you like to do?
yesterday was sunny & warm & the footing was good in most spots, so we had an excellent ride on the trails. including a nice gallop. which we haven't gotten to do in a couple months. the horses were happy to get out, too. I love it when they're frisky.
now today we are having flood warnings & tornado watches & our riding was confined to the indoor. back to the circles & leg yielding etc. excersizes.....I suppose they will keep us fit until we get out again. It has been such a long, icey, snowy, wet winter/spring here though. maybe tomorrow I will try a little jumping bareback for fun. any tips? with a helmet, ofcourse~

posted in Horses - 7 replies

BRAND

Sun, 23 Mar 2008 17:13:25 GMT

I rescued a horse that I now Call Logan. He is a black Mustang/Draft cross, or so I was told, and he does look the part, and he came out of Nevada a few years ago. He is 9ish, and now that I have gotten through some of his starvation coat, he has a freeze brand on his right shoulder, it looks to be a pW or cW, anyone familiar with this?

posted in Horses - 4 replies

Having a baby

Amy — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 01:57:16 GMT

There's a brand new colt at the barn today, and I'm once again itching to breed my mare. So, what's involved? I mean, beyond the obvious... I'd like to get an idea of how much time and money I should have stored up before trying. How many breeding does it usually take? How often should the vet come by for pre-natal check-ups? How late into the pregnancy can you still ride your mare? Etc. Etc. Etc.

posted in Horses - 12 replies

transporters

feyfern — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:20:06 GMT

A friend is moving a horse from Ohio to MA...and in a few months I am planning on moving a horse from MA to OH... any suggestions? Who is reasonably priced/ safe/ trustworthy? Thanks!

posted in Horses - 0 replies

Need First Aid advice, yesterday!

Haley — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 17:51:41 GMT

I noticed yesterday my horse got a gash on the bulb of his heel on his front left foot. It looks like it goes down into the hoof wall some too, but not through. He was limping bad at the walk, but by the time I got him to the barn to clean him up he was hardly limping at all. I soaked his foot and scrubbed as much of the gunk off as i could. The wound, being so low, of course is going to constantly collect dirt, so to prevent that as much as possible I had him stand on a tarp until it dried.

I was wondering, could anyone give me advice on how to doctor him better? I didn't wrap it because it was still a little oozy, and because it's so low I didn't know if it was pointless. What cream or ointment would be best? Should i keep washing it or just let it heal? This is my first horse and the first time I've had to doctor him. I would put up some pics here of his wound but I'm not sure how, so if anyone wants a better idea of what we're dealing with, check out my page, I'll post some pics of "K'ya's Hoof Injury". Any advice would be helpful!

I'm about to head back out to check on him again, I'll post any noteworthy change. Thanks!

posted in Horses - 15 replies

Making a treeless saddle

Amy — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 20:30:44 GMT

I know that there's a big leap from making some reins and a saddle pad to making a full saddle, but I'd love to try it some day. And it seems to me that a treeless saddle shouldn't be all that hard. I've seen some traditional saddles that use a treeless design (see the Argentinian Gaucho Saddle and Vaquera Saddle -- http://www.aeon-systems.net/narrawin/gearcollect.html ) and it seems, theoretically, pretty straightforwards, but I'm sure there's a lot more to it. But I can't find any info online about making a treeless saddle--everything is for a traditional English or Western (step 1: buy a tree). Anyone know?

posted in Horses - 3 replies

Making safety reins

Amy — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:40:15 GMT

I made my own rope reins, but now it occurs to me that they won't break if my horse should get caught in them. I was thinking of modifying them to be break-away reins and was hoping for thoughts/suggestions. I was thinking of cutting the reins in the middle and splicing a thin cord to each end, then tying the ends together again (so, basically, an easy poor-man's buckle). That way, I have full reins (I'm no good w/ split reins) but there'll be a weak spot in the middle that can pull apart. Does that sound like a plan? If so, what type of cord should I use to join them? I'm not sure how to gauge strength (need it strong enough to hold but weak enough to break under pressure).

posted in Horses - 4 replies

Dangers of hay nets

Amy — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 17:33:36 GMT

I've never worried about hay nets--always seen them used. Used them myself. Just make sure they're tied up high and you're fine, right? Well, to continue the wonderful year of accidents I seem to be having, my horse got tangled in her hay net while trailer on Sunday. We arrived at our destination (45 minute ride) to find her down with her front legs caught up. No idea how she got her legs up that high--maybe she tried to scramble up the wall? We think she'll be fine--her front legs are swollen and she's off, but she's markedly improved and standing and moving. But I will never use a hay net again.

posted in Horses - 3 replies

Bridleless training

sara — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 23:32:32 GMT

Hallo

Since I started training this way I have a great new relationship with my horse. She learned to trust me and she has shown me a very friendly side of her, which I haven't seen before. Here is where I learned it, does anyone else here work with bridleless training?
sara

Bridleless Training
By Palm Lynn

Bridleless Training is for the rider as well as for any breed of horse in any discipline. The important benefit of the rider's use of seat and leg aids is stressed, taking the emphasis off the hand aids which allows the rider to communicate more clearly with the horse. You become a more confident rider and improve rider balance problems caused by improper use of your hands. You'll learn to read your horse and understand where he carries his natural balance. This DVD provides excellent training techniques for older horses, for horses that have problems accepting a bit, and is excellent for horses that show signs of resistance as it provides a technique to get them to slow down and accept what they are doing. Using horses in different stages of training, Lynn demonstrates steps that must be followed and carefully evaluated before you advance. Ground training, numerous types of maneuvers, and many stages of training were involved in this unique bridleless training method. The final segment demonstrates the advanced horse, using Rugged Lark to show you the results of training through Love, Acceptance, Respect, and Kindness. This DVD can help you mark a new beginning in the relationship you have with your horse. However, always remember the many safety tips Lynn uses as an important part of all you do whether you are riding and or training.

DVD

you can find out more about the dvd, when you go to http://www.horsesinyourmailbox.com/
Product ID: 500201

posted in Horses - 1 reply

Feeling grouchy

Amy — Sun, 27 Jan 2008 20:34:12 GMT

I finally managed to take an ambulance-required spill of my horse, so I'm still feeling very sore and grouchy and need to vent. While I'm lying there in the ambulance, strapped down to that &*^% board, the EMT starts chatting--"So, did you know that girl that got hit on Harrison last week?" I mumble no and wonder, is this really the time? The girl in question was riding her horse along Harrison Road when she was struck by a car. The horse died at the scene, and she died later in the hosptial. Not a great topic of conversation when I'm still trying to count my teeth with my tongue. Why is it that, if you get hurt riding or mention getting hurt riding, non-riders decide you'd really like to hear about every fatal accident you know about?

And, apparently the story at the ER turned into me getting thrown from my horse or bucked off or possibly even kicked in the face. I got tired correcting everyone--No, Dolly just tripped and I fell face-first. Horses really aren't out to kill us. Oh, and for the final insult, one young employee came over to me while I was lying in my hall cot (not enough rooms in the ER), said she'd like to see my face, so I showed her, thinking she was a nurse or something, and she said "oh, that looks like it hurts" and walked off. She was back later to wheel me out in a wheel chair, so I think she was just a gawking candy striper. How rude. (Everyone else there was wonderful).

Ah, that feels better.

PS. I'll be fine.

posted in Horses - 18 replies

Favorite Equine Reads

Amy — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 18:50:53 GMT

Can I follow up on the latest post of a new book to check out and ask what y'all favorite equine books are? What's your favorite for training? For fun? For medical reference? Etc?

posted in Horses - 7 replies

Get Involved - Tues Jan 22nd

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 21:05:46 GMT

An opportunity to make a difference is at hand. Please consider spending two minutes of your day on the 22nd of Jan 2008 to call the US Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121 and ask for your US Represenative's and two US Senator's offices.

Ask them to "please co-sponsor and push for the passage of H.R. 503/S.311 to protect horses from slaughter".

Flier can be found at: http://www.hsus.org/web-files/PDF/horse/Horse-Flier.pdf

posted in Horses - 0 replies

New Year's Resolutions

Amy — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 00:15:52 GMT

Any New Year's equine resolutions? I want to complete an endurance race. I'm happy with just a 25 miler. A friend said she'll train with me. Yay.

posted in Horses - 3 replies

Happy holidays all!

urbangal70 — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 18:02:47 GMT

Hope you and your families and equine buddies are enjoying the day!

Cheers!

posted in Horses - 2 replies

Australian Saddles-any opinions

urbangal70 — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 02:49:30 GMT

I did look through the whole listings but only found one mention about aussie saddles.
My Draft x Kelly has high withers which makes the draft horse one size fits all invalid. I've looked in to several kinds of saddles that work for us both. Tuckers look good for the seating style I'd like but man they aren't very generious for the withers. A custom saddle from Circle Y or Billy Cook is going to set me way back even though I really like the suede seats. Tex Tan *frown* I have one and I'd like nothing more than to chuck it into the river.
So, because one size fits all drafts doesn't work on my girl and I do like the ones I've seen and sat in, I've considered the aussie saddles from this gentleman (http://www.aussiesaddle.com/). I spoke with him at the Equine Affaire and was impressed by what I saw and well, ok the accent too.
Seriously though. Aussie saddles-what do you think?

posted in Horses - 6 replies

How to think like a horse

sara — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 00:59:21 GMT

Hi
I just read this great book. Does anyone else know it. what did you think about it?

How to Think Like A Horse
Cherry Hill

Equine behavior makes perfect sense when you consider a horses survival instincts and fears and know what makes him feel calm and confident. Learn whats going on in his mind, as noted horsewomen Cherry Hill describes your horses basic needs and routines and responses to sights, smells, sounds and touch. You will learn to see things from your horses point of view, anticipate his reaction to many situations and adjust your training methods accordingly. Your lasting reward will be a solid relationship with a curious, trusting, adaptable, and eager to please equine companion. Learn how a horse thinks and processes information and the relationship becomes safer, more productive and far more enjoyable.

192 pgs. Paper Back
"http://www.horsesinyourmailbox.com/horses/pwccart.cgi?p_id=902623" to view image

posted in Horses - 3 replies

looking for interns for future las vegas show

shanee — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 06:54:57 GMT

hey everyone, i am posting this on behalf of a friend and the trainer of our stallions (some of which will be cast in the same show). her methods (carolyn resnick's) are based on extra natural leadership not dominance, its mostly liberty stuff, horses are very free to express their little creative selves. shes a neat lady, the methods are VERY neat...

Lord of the Rings Shadowfax star invites you to join our TEAM. Equine entertainment Company near Escondido, CA using revolutionary no force methods seeks interns. Need experienced trainer apprendices, grooms/washers, grounds/barn help, horse visitors/companions. Must be passionate, resp. adult, non-smoker, own transp. Serious inquiries call 703-216-1819. 9/11/07

posted in Horses - 2 replies

Kelly gotten bigger

urbangal70 — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 19:48:24 GMT

Darn it! I was hoping she'd stay at 16.3HH so at least I could try and get on her on the trails. However, I recently with a friend measured my girl so we could get some accurate measurements.
Height: 17 HH
Weight: 1369lbs
----------------
Lately, I've been working her in the roundpen that is full of sand so she can built up muscle and sweat. This has worked wonders for a normally lazy horse. You can pretty much split Kelly into three parts. Head is Quarter Horse-ish; neck and shoulders, feet legs are Draft; Withers, back, butt: Quarter horse-ish. Now she likes getting out but not in that round pen. So its time to saddle up again and get some saddle time for us both. Should be fun. Better get a new hat for the "rough" spots like trotting (which she dislikes). Kelly, prefers to canter...FAST. I got good control of her on the ground with fast and slow cantering. I'm hoping fix the speed problem while improving her reining and such. I have a trainer in mind for some small stuff. She's great on the trails in a group but always ALWAYS the last one. That was before she got back into shape so maybe there is some improvements. Also, I've been riding her farrier to put clips on her and build up some heel. She needs them all the way around but the heel she's grown WOW! Her trot is way smoother.

My goals? Well, originally, it was competative trail riding when she was still under 16HH. However, at her size even in shape, I do not think she is fast enough for it. I was thinking of getting some cow time on her as she's big enough but not fast enough. How fast does a horse have to be to heel?
Maybe some Gymkana in the future. Who knows what this horse can do when in shape and on good feet.

posted in Horses - 0 replies

Dancing mare - must see!

Grandma — Tue, 01 May 2007 16:43:05 GMT

Hi all,

This was so amazing, I had to share. Make sure the sound is on.

http://beboframe.com/FlashFrame.jsp?Size=S&FlashBoxId=3309347442

Enjoy!
Grnamda

posted in Horses - 5 replies

Gullet Widths

Amy — Sat, 22 Sep 2007 01:43:11 GMT

Would someone like to explain how to calculate gullet widths? I'm used to the English system of narrow to extra wide. Now, I'm looking for a synthetic trail saddle (any recommendations?) and everyone's talking about the bars and the width in inches. How do these convert? Can I take a wither tracing and measure off the gullet width from that? If so, how? Thanks.

posted in Horses - 7 replies

Draft Talk!

LisaBlissDancer — Fri, 15 Jul 2005 04:30:43 GMT

Does anyone have Drafts in their life? Would love to hear your experiences, challenges, joys....

I have a very hot Percheron mare...I think the Arab blood is strong in this one!
In the winter she really perks up, loves the snow and is especially spooked by chipmunks and things that go crack in the woods....LOL She's 7, acts like a 2 yr old...They do say drafts mature much slower than light horses, both mentally and physically.

The breeder said her sire was such a terror they had to geld him...that made me feel great. LOL Although he did say it was hormonal, because after being gelded he was a teddy bear. I met her dam, and she was the sweetest best natured horse I have ever met, and Lucy is the spitting image of her dam. All black with a bright white star on her forehead.

She stands well over 17 hands now, haven't sticked her lately, but I am 5'5" and her withers are well over my head now....two years ago her withers were just below the top of my head, so they do grow more between age 5 and 7 than I thought!

All the best,

Lisa

posted in Horses - 1 reply

hoof boots

Jivete — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 20:10:12 GMT

Has anyone used these? I just bought some Cavallos and I think they're too big even though according to her measurements, she almost needed the next size.

posted in Horses - 0 replies

Horse Art

curmudgeon — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 05:44:22 GMT

I don't post here much, but I found this nice site and thought I'd share it.

http://www.jansch.freeserve.co.uk/index.htm

posted in Horses - 1 reply

crossing water

meljoy — Mon, 28 May 2007 15:00:30 GMT

OH my gosh! joker, my 3 year old gelding went on his first trail ride on saturday! and he crossed flowing water on his first try!
he's such a follower. i was riding my mare, spirit, and my friend was riding joker. all we did was "coerce" spirit into crossing (with the help of my husband on the ground leading) and he followed her in like it was a stream of sweet feed!
spirit took about 2 months of constant work starting with puddles and working our way up to 3 inch deep creeks, then a faster running stream that you couldn't see the bottom. she still has fits every once in a while, hence the hubby leading her. she follows him anywhere and he's not even "horsey".
this kind of illustrates the difference in personality on training. joker is mellow and nearly spookproof, but quite herdbound. spirit is nervous and "spirited", but very independent. she goes out on trails by herself all the time and is fine except that snow hills, dirt piles, squirrels and other horses are all SOOO scary sometimes! but i don't think joker will go out on the trail by himself yet. he doesn't even like to go out of the pasture by himself. he'll do it, but he whinnies the whole time.

i was wondering how everyone else got their horses to cross water? did they follow another horse? were they just pro's from the start? or was it a struggle?
i want to event spirit, so she'll have to jump into water eventually. i'm not so sure she's that trusting yet. that one may take a while!

posted in Horses - 7 replies

Back cinch and saddle yaw

Amy — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 19:28:32 GMT

Well, it took dense little me a while to figure this out, but it finally dawned on me that the reason my well-fitted saddle still leaves some near-wither marks is that it yaws in back. I don't notice it much when I ride, but the much-larger-than-me trainer rode in it yesterday and it was very visible when he took tight turns. I have a back cinch (if that's the right term--also heard it called the back strap or rear cinch) but the trainer said they should hang loosely, which was affirmed by a western-riding friend of mine. That seems to completely defeat the purpose of using one--isn't its purpose to help keep the back of the saddle centered? Another person told me they should be tight enough to touch your horse's belly, but not at all snug. So, which is it? Any other tips for correcting saddle yaw on an Aussie saddle? Like I said, the saddle is a good fit. I assume it's a combination of the long saddle w/ high cantle (so it's got good weight in back) and Dolly's nearly flat as a board back.

posted in Horses - 2 replies

Urgent: Tucson Riders

Amy — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 14:28:50 GMT

I learned last night that regulations are in the works to close down trail access to horses in Saguaro National Monument-East. Similar regulations were already passed for Saguaro West. There is an informational meeting concerning the potential closures and how to protest it this Friday (July 6th) at Bookman's on Wilmot (I believe that's Wilmot and Broadway--but maybe it's Speedway...In the plaza w/ Beyond Bread). Apparently, our lovely Parks & Rec has kept this regulation quiet and unpublicised, and there is now less than a month to send in public comments concerning it. There is additional concern that this is a sign of a new trend to shut down trail access to riders, so, even if you don't ride in Saguaro, please come. I'll post any info. I learn at the meeting.

posted in Horses - 2 replies

Barn Hunts

Amy — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 03:25:22 GMT

Can I just say how much I hate looking for a new barn? It's even worse than looking for a new apartment. I went from work, so I was doing the visits in heels and a dress to boot (so much shavings in my favorite shoes). To make it even worse, I loooove my current barn, and I'm shocked that I have to pay even more to get even less at these other places. But, now that the ever-wise AZ DOT decided to shut down the only highway for the entire city of Tucson, the commute has become a nightmare. My feet hurt, I'm tired, I'm depressed, and I just wanted to vent. Anyone know a good barn in South East Tucson?

posted in Horses - 3 replies

Patches the horse is the most amazing ~ and his two red necks

Mon, 02 Jul 2007 21:42:19 GMT

This video is for anyone who wanted to do silly things with a horse.
Also if you think horses are stupid, this one sure looks like he thinks for himself.

I've seen some strange shit with horses, but these two red necks win.....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=teHfyby_veU

Daniel

posted in Horses - 1 reply

Heart of Horsemanship Event 6/30/07

Mashara — Sun, 17 Jun 2007 22:33:08 GMT

Please sperad the word......

Heart of Horsemanship fund raising Event.....

Saving the lives of horses who would otherwise be sent to slaughter and suffer in incredible ways....

The Church of Truth
690 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena, CA

Saturday, June 30, 4:00pm to 9:00pm

http://www.heartofhorsemanship.com/events.htm

We invite all animal lovers, interested individuals and those who wish to have a great time, to join us for an afternoon and evening of performances by gifted entertainers, creatives, and spiritual healers to support this wonderful non-profit organization, The Heart of Horsemanship. We are proud to feature Scottish performer, bluesy gal, ANGELA McCLUSKEY who has just joined our fabulous musical lineup. (www.angelamccluskey.com) Also featuring Big Island Recording artist, PAUL CANTELON whose contemporary classical piano works have been praised by Rickie Lee Jones and The Red Hot Chili Peppers as: "heartbreakingly beautiful." Also featured is Celtic Artiste, Aeone, whose hauntingly exquisite voice has received rave reviews internationally. The five hour gala event also features other musical genres such as folk, rock and blues. Enjoy great food, wine, and refreshments while listening to the music or taking in some of the other attractions which include; massage, yoga, psychic readings and reiki healings. There will be a silent auction and an arts & crafts exhibit from some of LA's best artists. Win a 2 week vacation in Tuscany! Join us for a fun filled and informative day for both young and old. Kids under 12 are admitted for free. Heart of Horsemanship, an LA based non-profit organization serves up visionary equestrian education and awareness. No animal in history has served humankind like the horse. We now owe it to the horse to make their world a better place!!!

http://www.heartofhorsemanship.org

If you can blossom and release that which is hidden in you, you have
fulfilled the longing of existence. You have given back to existence the fragrance that was
hidden in your seed. You have come to fulfill your destiny.
OSHO

posted in Horses - 0 replies

Ruffian Movie Tonight

Amy — Sat, 09 Jun 2007 23:53:47 GMT

FYI: ABC has a made-for-TV movie on tonight about Ruffian.

posted in Horses - 0 replies

The Belmont (spoiler)

Amy — Sat, 09 Jun 2007 23:53:07 GMT

What a race! The stumble, the recovery, the final duel to the finish line, the filly whopin' all the boys...That makes up for the lack of Triple Crown.

posted in Horses - 0 replies

Softening the Poll

Amy — Wed, 25 Apr 2007 17:53:30 GMT

Dolly gets so stiff up there some days. Yesterday she was just awful. I think it's a combination of her just not being naturally flexible and (as in yesterday) just being in a stubborn mood. What do y'all do to encourage softening of the poll? Any lunging or riding exercises? Any ground work? Any massage or alternative work?

posted in Horses - 14 replies

DIY Fly Mask

Amy — Sat, 12 May 2007 21:47:10 GMT

That was easy! Granted, I still have to drive over to the barn to make sure it fits, but it sure looks right.

Since I'm tired of paying for fly masks that either don't fit or don't have the features that I want, only to have to replace them with an equally unsatisfactory one every month, due to horse distruction, I finally sat down to make one.

I took the best fitting mask in my stash (the Super Mask II, no ears, Arabian size) and headed over to an upholstery store. I bought 1/2 yard of the mesh, 1/2 yard of 2" wide velco (I was doing the Super Mask II double closure) and 1/8 yard of faux fur for trim (I only needed 1/16, but 1/8 was the smallest they sold it). I marked the darts with markers, then pulled the stitches to open the mask up its full size (the mask was half-demolished, so it was no loss, and I only needed half intact to make the pattern). Then I traced the mask. I added a seam allowance along the throatlatch, like the original. Otherwise, I cut right along the mark lines.

Then to the sewing machine. I used a denim needle and long stich length. I put in the darts. Since I didn't have quite enough fabric width to complete the throatlatch, I did a little improvising and added a few inches of velcro at the poll. This gave me the few extra inches I needed and, as an added bonus, I hope it will help with the fit (masks always seem to gap a bit too much there, and then she can pull it off). I trimmed the ear opening and throatlatch with faux fur. Then I added the rest of the velcro to the throatlatch. Then, I made a small sleeve of faux fur to cover the velcro (just to make it comfy). I haven't cut out the bottom of the mask yet--I want it to cover her nose, so I'm going to head over and see it I've left enough, or if I need to sew on some addition mesh at the bottom (I have about 1/3 of it left over).

All in all, about 1 hour of work (I did have to rip some when I sewed things together out of order) and $10 worth of material.

posted in Horses - 4 replies

HORSE SLAUGHTER NEEDS TO STOP

musicaddict — Thu, 10 May 2007 01:02:05 GMT

please check out this site!

www.myspace.com/mydeadflicka

posted in Horses - 2 replies

New Equus

Amy — Sat, 24 Mar 2007 16:10:00 GMT

Who else gets Equus? Did you read the article on David O'Connor's childhood cross-country ride along the Oregon trail? And the new endurance ride along the Sante Fe trail? Has anyone here ever done anything so adventurous? It's awakening the Roma in me ;o)

posted in Horses - 3 replies

Deleted postings

LisaBlissDancer — Fri, 16 Mar 2007 18:21:43 GMT

Sorry everyone...I deleted some postings, something I vowed never to do, but I guess this debate got the better of me. This forum is for horse discussions, not debate about drug use. If anyone else wants to take over moderating duties that has been here a while, please let me know. I don't want to be the posting police. It sucks.

Let's keep the discussion horse based please. If not, then I will just step down from moderating duties and let you all eat each other alive.

Peace,

Leela

posted in Horses - 14 replies

Alternative Fly Control?

Amy — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 17:35:14 GMT

My poor mare's big bug bites are starting to reappear ( http://horselovers.tribe.net/thread/cadf0148-7d91-4122-9244-62010efb75ff ). I'm at a loss of what else to do for fly control. She's sprayed constantly by me, and there's auto fly sprayers in the stalls. Stalls are cleaned 2x a day where she's boared, with fly traps hanging in the stalls as well. I have had no luck finding fly barrier paraphernalia that will fit a pony (leg wraps, collars, ankle wraps... found one fly mask that fits, but it doesn't come with nose or ears).

Anyone have any other methods? Garlic? Feed-through? Spot treatments?

posted in Horses - 2 replies

DIY Fly Clothing?

Amy — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 17:36:54 GMT

Since I can't find any fly clothing that will fit a pony, I was thinking of just making some myself. Anyone know where you find the netting? Or what terms you would even search for?

(On a side note, a friend said there's a company out there that has horse patterns--not only chaps, but also horse blankets. I've had no luck w/ Google. Anyone ever heard of this?)

posted in Horses - 3 replies

Carrying supplies on English Saddles

Thu, 22 Feb 2007 20:02:36 GMT

I found a Crosby Marathon saddle, which is fairly well built and fits my horse and my fat ass but it still needs some major work to fit attachments that will with stand weight and wear. I live in Arizona and going out exploring with out sufficient water is suicidal. I saw some saddle pads that have pockets sewn into them but it would seem to me they would put to much pressure on the spine

I have an old Army Phillips saddle that was perfect for trail riding except its 70 years old and now retired. It has pommel pockets that fit into a socket on the saddle that are flush and do not interfere when the pockets are not in use, and a shelf that attached to the cantle for carrying saddle bags and keeping the weight and chafing off the spine and loins. I thought about having it rebuilt but it is a family heirloom and I do not want to destroy its value.

So how do you folks carry your stuff? Anybody got any Ideas?

posted in Horses - 16 replies

Randomness

Amy — Mon, 19 Mar 2007 00:08:05 GMT

My husband brought home a step counter from his work's health day fair. For grins and giggles, I hooked it onto my chaps before heading out on the trail today. 5504 steps in approximately 1:45 . I wonder how it registers walk vs. trot vs. gait vs. canter... Hee hee. Let the experimenting begin.

posted in Horses - 2 replies

What's in your pack?

Amy — Thu, 08 Mar 2007 23:57:45 GMT

Since I'm hoping to go on longer trail rides this spring, I thought I should carry a pack with me of emergency supplies. So, what do y'all carry with you on a trail?

So far, I've got a water bottle for me, a cell phone, a hoof pick, and tweezers (for catci). Dolly's gear already has a built-in halter and lead. I just got a cantle pack and tossed in two rolls of vet wrap, scissors, and some gauge. Should I bring a big roll of bandage for big leg wounds? An easy boot for thrown shoes? (How do you size easy boots?). I stick to well-used trails, in general.

Also, do you ride w/ a breat plate or collar?

posted in Horses - 13 replies

Country Music Fans

Fri, 09 Mar 2007 19:18:19 GMT

So if your like me you love all things western, from your horse to music.
So here is your chance to join the Country Music Fans tribe.
With free links to music, and all other cool stuff.

http://countrymusic.tribe.net/?_click_path=Application%5Btribe%5D.Tribe%5B4165ea57-202a-4c1c-8a01-030c5f5c7077%5D

posted in Horses - 0 replies

I'm so sad!

Amy — Tue, 09 Jan 2007 20:03:46 GMT

I went away for a week, and came home to find all the trails gone! Well, not all---that's a bit of an exaggeration. But the two that I use the most. There is a wash that runs behind my barn. Head one way and it leads you to a national park. Now, barbed wire was erected across it so the only way into the park involves riding for part along a main road (and it's going to be lovely when monsoons come and all that barbed wire gets washed down the wash). I'm afraid the property was all fenced off in preparation of a new development. Head the other way towards the river and it looks like a road is going in. Suddenly, the main trail is completely filled in and leveled with bulldozers ready and waiting. I'm so sad!

posted in Horses - 10 replies

New to Horse tribe

Sharifa — Sun, 25 Feb 2007 00:07:33 GMT

I have a 5 yr old Paso Fino gelding, blue roan and barefoot.
Prefer the natural horsemanship style of 'cooperation' between horse and rider/trainer.
And yes, I'm also a professional Oriental 'belly' dancer and instructor.
Great to be here.

Sharifa Asmar

posted in Horses - 2 replies

Akhal Teke Horses Need Help

Mich — Sat, 24 Feb 2007 01:44:22 GMT

Please support Geldy Kyarizov, Former Horse Minister of Turkmenistan. You can read his story and the plight of his Akhal Teke horses and family below.
Thank you.

www.gsuttle.free-online.co.uk/geldy.htm

posted in Horses - 1 reply

Parasitic wasps for fly control

Mon, 19 Feb 2007 19:59:21 GMT

Has anyone used these? And; was the result positive or negative for fly control around your horses?

posted in Horses - 7 replies

barbaro passes

Mon, 29 Jan 2007 20:00:39 GMT

Just saw the news, so sad, such a beautiful creature.

posted in Horses - 31 replies

Tail guards

Amy — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 00:27:33 GMT

After much braiding and bagging, my horse finally has a long, clean tail. Unfortunately, the top hairs are still constantly broken from rubbing. I've been deciding what to do about it. On the one hand, if it scratches, I want her to be able to itch. On the other, I'm at a loss as to how else to grow that tail out, and suspect that she may be rubbing her stall walls out of boredom rather than need. An old roommate would wrap her horse's tail in vet wrap, top to bottom, and I've been wondering if that would protect the hairs while still allowing her to do some scratching, or if it would just get all dirty (I'd only wrap the top of the tail). Either than, or I was considering getting a tail guard, but wonder how comfortable and breathable they are. Anyone have any thoughts or experience?

posted in Horses - 5 replies

Natural/Parelli in SE Virginia?

Rainweaver — Mon, 19 Feb 2007 22:24:36 GMT

Allo there =) I'm going to be moving to SE Virginia at the end of May. I've taken lessons off and on all my life, and have had two horses, but due to my life situation and finances, had to give it up for a while. Thanks to a forthcoming doubling of my income with this move, I'm looking to, at the very least, get back to taking riding lessons. Would anyone be familiar with resources in the Suffolk/Norfolk area of Virginia? Preferably natural horsemanship? Thanks =)

posted in Horses - 0 replies

Grand National Rodeo

Thu, 15 Feb 2007 17:46:28 GMT

Grand National Rodeo & stock show
Coming in April to the Cow Place in San Francisco
Cowboy-up

Yea team penning....

posted in Horses - 0 replies

Amazing video

maja_the_bee — Sun, 04 Feb 2007 22:50:54 GMT

http://video.google.nl/videoplay?docid=-4584913278289860160

posted in Horses - 6 replies

Sleep Attacks in Horses

Amy — Sun, 28 Jan 2007 02:36:44 GMT

There's an article on sleep deprevation in horses in the latest Equus Magazine. Their website has some video clips. Very interesting.

http://equisearch.com/horses_care/health/behavior/sleepdisorder_121506/

posted in Horses - 5 replies

Why do you ride?

Amy — Wed, 03 Jan 2007 01:50:30 GMT

Why do you ride? What kind of riding/driving/horse activity do you do? What would you like to learn?

posted in Horses - 18 replies

treeless saddles? bit-less bridles? wholesales horse supplies?

miadonna — Fri, 01 Dec 2006 00:40:28 GMT

anyone know anything!!!

i've just heard about treeless saddles and am really interested in getting one. my horse is growing and with his changing body, i want to be as gentle to his back as possible!!

bitless bridles...that are not hackmores or bozzels (sp)?

and wholesale suppliers!!!

anyone have any info!!!?

thanks!! *whinnie*

posted in Horses - 26 replies

When I am Old...

Thu, 25 Jan 2007 00:10:37 GMT

When I am Old...

I shall wear diamonds
And a wide brimmed straw hat
With silver and leather on it
and I shall spend my social security
On white wine and carrots
And sit in the alley of my barn
And listen to my horses breathe.

I will sneak out
in the middle of a summer's night
And ride the chestnut mare
Across the moonstruck meadow.
If my old bones will allow.

When people come to call I will smile and nod
As I walk them past the gardens to the barn
And show, instead, the beauty growing there
In stalls fresh-lined with straw.

I will shovel and sweat and
Wear hay in my hair as if it were a jewel.
And I will be an embarrassment to all
Who look down on me.
They've not yet found the peace in being free
To love a horse as a friend,
A friend who waits at midnight hour
With nuzzle and nicker and patient eyes
For the kind of woman I will be
When I am Old.

Author Unknown

posted in Horses - 0 replies

CUTE web site you must visit!!

Wed, 24 Jan 2007 17:53:23 GMT

I love this site!! It is a good break from life sometimes!! :o)

www.cuteoverload.com/

posted in Horses - 0 replies

New Year's Goals?

Amy — Wed, 03 Jan 2007 01:49:23 GMT

Any riding goals for the new year?

posted in Horses - 6 replies

Cavalia!

Kimi — Mon, 15 Jan 2007 06:05:54 GMT

Has anyone seen this show yet? I have tickets for Weds and am REALLY excited! http://www.cavalia.net/

posted in Horses - 0 replies

Wild horses and Burros

Chathaunt — Wed, 10 Jan 2007 19:20:38 GMT

I just started a tribe for wild horses and burros.
Check it out at http://tribes.tribe.net/lovemustangs

posted in Horses - 0 replies

Russian horse trainer Nevzorov interesting

Mon, 08 Jan 2007 17:08:44 GMT

I thought some of you might find this Russian horse trainer Nevzorov interesting... He does not use bridles! There are some interesting points made on this site (food for thought) as well as stunning photos... This site is in English and Russian...

http://www.hauteecole.ru/

I like some of his ideas however I worry how safe it would be to go without bridles? And would you have to train a horse from a foal in this way? I could ride my childhood Palomino without a bridle and I can ride our Morgan IN THE PASTURE without a bridle... But for trail rides I don't think I would feel safe. Maybe it depends on the horse and also on the person working with that horse? Let me know your thoughts when you have time?

posted in Horses - 6 replies

Very moving Video!

bear54 — Wed, 27 Dec 2006 23:48:34 GMT

The link wouldn't fully copy. You'll have to put the two lines together to make it work.

http://video.google.nl/videoplay
?docid=-4584913278289860160

It's worth watching.
Bear

posted in Horses - 3 replies

Wolf Teeth: To Pull or Not to Pull?

Amy — Tue, 19 Dec 2006 04:32:28 GMT

What do you say? Traditional wisdom, from my understanding, was always to pull them. Then Equus said that's slowly fadding and people are deciding only to pull if they interfer with the bit. Dolly's still got hers, so I'm debating...

posted in Horses - 6 replies

Arabian gypsy Horse Photography

yogisunite — Tue, 19 Dec 2006 05:24:18 GMT

Check out these Arabians ive been photographing for many ys.up in the mountains of Colorado.DVDs available for visual backdrops. also check out http://www.myspace.com/guillaumehorsephotography

posted in Horses - 0 replies