Health & Education
We all want the best care possible for our horses. The Heath & Education section covers both Learning Institutions, Organizations as well as many sources for equine assistance including Veterinarians and Farriers.
For those who want a to formally study horses, the Education section includes College Riding, Equine Studies, and Veterinary Schools. Learn about the wide variety of horses in the Horse Breeds section. Supplements and Treatments Therapy are also included in the section.
Everyone can learn from Fine Art and there are some specialty Museums that might surprise you.
Horses as a therapy partner enrich the lives of the disabled. These facilities are listed in our Therapeutic Riding section. To help children and young adults build confidence and grow emotionally, please see the resources available on the Youth Outreach page.
Looking for a place to keep your horse? You can find it in the Horse Boarding section. Traveling? Find a Shipping company or Horse Sitting service if your horse is staying home!
Want to stay up to date with the latest training clinics or professional conferences? Take a look at our Calendar of Events for Health & Education for the dates and locations of upcoming events.
Do we need to add more? Please use the useful feedback link and let us know!
All the horses in the barn get the same amount of feed every day; it makes feeding time much simpler. The warmbloods look super. Their weight is good, and their coats are gleaming. However, the one Thoroughbred in the barn who arrived a little thin six months ago has not put on any weight. In fact, he has lost body condition. He is getting grain just like the other horses, so what could be wrong? A veterinarian has thoroughly examined the horse and nothing appears to be wrong. Could it be as simple as insufficient caloric intake? What kind of changes can be made to his feeding program to encourage weight gain?
Sometimes, getting a thin horse to gain weight is simply a matter of increasing the caloric density of the diet. Other times, the diet may need to be higher in calories because of a medical, psychological or environmental problem.
What makes a horse a hard keeper?
The metabolic rate determines whether a horse is an easy or hard keeper, and the variation between horses can be extreme.
Metabolism is the speed at which the body burns fuels for energy in order to maintain normal body functions. A slow metabolism can function on little input of fuel energy. Conversely, a fast metabolism needs a higher caloric intake in order to function properly. In general, members of certain breeds have faster metabolisms and need more food to maintain body condition than members of other breeds. For example, Thoroughbreds usually eat more per pound of body weight than draft horses. There is also variety within a breed. For instance, some Thoroughbreds are easy keepers while others require intense management to maintain body weight. Temperament often goes hand in hand with metabolic rate. A nervous horse may require more calories than a calm tempered one to maintain the same body condition. A tense horse may spend more time stall walking or weaving while the calm horse conserves energy stores.
A thin horse requires energy in the diet to ensure proper functioning of body processes and to build fat stores. Energy is a general term, yet many horsemen associate the word energy with mental energy. In this article, energy refers to the potential of a feed to fuel body functions and exercise. Weight gain in the horse can be attributed to protein or fat deposition. When a horse does not have enough calories or protein in the diet, the body will break down its own muscle tissue and deplete much of the adipose tissue or fat.
This results in emaciation with poor muscle definition and protruding bones. When the diet has excessive calories, the body will build muscle and adipose stores. The simplified solution to poor weight is to increase the caloric content of the diet while ensuring adequate protein content. The three nutrients which can supply energy to increase the caloric content of the diet in the horse are fiber, starch and fat. Each nutrient is utilized for energy in a slightly different way in the body which, depending on the horse, can be advantageous or not.
Fiber
Of the three major energy sources for the horse, fiber is the most important, most underestimated and the safest. Fiber is the major component of grass and hay. Some horses can maintain their weight on fiber sources alone. For the hard keeper, however, fiber alone will not maintain weight, but there are fiber feeding strategies that can increase the ability of the horse to derive energy from fiber.
Icelandic horses and loved all over the world and it has never been easier to buy horses in their home country and export them to their new destination, due to a great number of experts and professionals in the industry.
In this video we see the horses being brought down from the highlands in the fall and gathered at Víðidalstungurétt, where the owners bring them back to their farm. We speak with horse trainers, tourism operators, exporters and also a farm in Europe who assist with the transitioning. Enjoy!
The video was filmed and edited by Wild Horse Films.
Read more: The Export Journey of the Icelandic Horse (22:17)
The statistics are gripping. Equestrian-related injuries account for 70,000 emergency room visits yearly, with 12,000 of those being head injuries. Equestrians across the country, and across disciplines, are sharing their harrowing close calls and their reasons behind wearing riding helmets.
Leslie (Barrel racer)
I ride in a Troxel. I remember being in OKC at the Better Barrel Racing Finals and just decided it was time to wear one. It was before the helmet fad started. When I pulled up, they had 1,500 entries. I went right to the stockyards, bought a helmet and brought it back. That weekend, two girls hit the wall. One girl went to the hospital. Then six months later, my horse went front end over end. I ended up underneath of him. Two hooves scrapped by the helmet, and I stood up with no injuries. I was totally lucky and thankful I had the feeling I needed a helmet before that happened. I always ride in a helmet. Thank God I wore it before; a lot of people wear a helmet after an accident. Trendy or not, it’s smart.
Sonja (Jumper)
One day, we were riding around the outdoor arena, and out of nowhere, my horse Luna tripped, and then tripped a second time. I prepared myself mentally for the inevitable fall that was coming. As I felt her body fall out from underneath me, I hit the ground face down, and the next thing I knew she was rolling over top of me. I will never be able to get the sound of my helmet crunching as she continued to roll over me and then away from me. I was, and am, so lucky for both her and me to walk away from our worst fall/crash basically unscathed. It was in those heart-stopping moments as she tripped, fell down and my helmet crunched under her body weight that I realized just how appreciative I was of all the trainers and people along my way that preached to me that I must ALWAYS wear a helmet.
Anne Marie (Jumper)
I had a horse fall on my head in November and didn’t even get a concussion. My helmet was smashed in three places, but besides bruising and swelling, I walked into the ER with no concussion and never blacked out. The doctors were so impressed with the helmet!
Read more: Why Wear a Helmet? Riders Share Harrowing Close Calls
Equine Affaire exclusive clinic with world renowned Monty Roberts performing Join-Up with a wild horse.
Equine wellness couldn't be more important to Kelly Mancinelli, DVM, who has enjoyed nearly 25 years of riding and competing with her childhood Pinto mare, Singin' Saddie Sue.
Horse and World Champion
"I remember the day I was supposed to sit on Saddie for the first time. I was actually sick with the flu, but I didn't care. I went out and did my lesson because I was so excited to ride her," Dr. Kelly Mancinelli said.
Fast forward to 2019, and Singin' Saddie Sue is 25 years old. Kelly is still in the saddle, and the two continue to compete across the country. Of many accolades, Saddie is an eight-time 4H champion, 11-time Congress Champion and eight-time World Champion. Together, they have won several show high-point championships, as well as 200 belt buckles, 150 trophies and six show saddles.
Saddie is the perfect example that when it comes to "senior" performance horses, age is just a number when horse health is prioritized. While there are special considerations for senior horses, risks such as age-related diseases can be managed through preventative care and trusted medications.
Read more: Veterinarian, Equestrian Advises on Caring for the Senior Show Horse
In this episode of StallSide, our host, Dr. Peter Morresey, interviews dermatologist Dr. Julia Miller, who specializes in diagnosing and treating skin conditions. Dr. Miller sheds light on two common issues that horse owners may face: scratches and hives.
Scratches are a skin condition usually affecting horses’ lower legs but can be present in other areas of the body. Dr. Miller explains the causes of scratches using the three P’s- predisposing, primary, and perpetuating factors. She also discusses the benefit of tissue biopsies and prevention and treatment options, such as topical ointments and antibiotics.
Hives, on the other hand, are allergic reactions that can occur in horses due to various triggers, including Food, insect bites, and medications. Dr. Miller explains the symptoms of hives, which include raised bumps on the skin and itching and emphasizes the importance of identifying and removing the trigger. She also discusses when to call your veterinarian and treatment options, such as antihistamines and corticosteroids.
Read more: Rood & Riddle "Stallside" Podcast - Scratches and Hives Oh My! with Dr Julia Miller
by Cynthia Sutton for Equine Info Exchange
I remember learning to ride when I was seven years old when my mom bought me a book of lessons for Christmas. I was thrilled. I smile at the memory when I watch the video of me screaming with delight so many years ago. It was the start to a lifelong journey of riding horses and meeting the amazing people along the way who remain my friends to this day.
So, what do you do when your child shares your passion and wants to ride a horse?
Here are some ways to get the ball rolling:
- Check out the Pony Club in the United States to see what they have to offer. Others include Pony Club UK, Canadian Pony Club and Pony Club Australia.
- Join local groups on Facebook and ask for recommendations.
- Find a place to go trail riding where a beginner can experience a safe and leisurely ride.
- Seek out a summer camp where your child can learn to care for and ride a horse.
- See if a friend has a horse and schedule a visit with your child. It may at least give him or her a chance to groom!
- List a request on the website Nextdoor for recommendations in your area.
- See if there is a College or Preparatory school with a riding stable to see if your child can get involved.
- Go to the local feed store like Tractor Supply and see if they have a bulletin board.
- Go to the local tack store and see if they have bulletin board as well!
- Ask your friends for suggestions on places to go!
If you are interested in lessons, you may be looking for a barn. Finding a barn for a child is different than finding a barn for adults. It is highly recommended to check out possible barns before you bring your child with you.
Look for these things:
- Is it priced within your budget? You don’t want your child to fall in love with a stunning barn only to learn it is unaffordable.
- Is it clean? A well maintained barn is always important and sets a good example for your child.
- Check the tack room. Is there a place for you if you bring in your tack or is it messy and overcrowded?
- Are there lots of kids running around? It is important to ensure that the kids in the barn are properly supervised.
- Look at the refrigerator if there is one. Is it full of wine and beer or drinks appropriate for children? 6
- Are the horses receiving proper care? Bad horse care is a huge indicator of bad management, issues with funds or uneducated owners.
- Are the instructors kind? We have seen many coaches and trainers in all sports who have an intensity of training future Olympians. Chances are, you are just seeking fun for your child – not a soul crushing experience.
- Is it conveniently located? Your child may fall in love with riding and may want to go as often as possible. Make sure it’s convenient especially if you are in the winter months and live in a place which snows!
- Is it recommended by people you trust? Word of mouth is extremely helpful and can give you the “inside scoop” about barns you may be considering.
- Is there a work to ride program? Some places offer an exchange program where a child can help around the barn to get discounted rides or lessons. We know lots of (now) adults who did that as kids and helped provide a foundation in work ethics.
Other great resources to see shows and figure out a discipline to pursue are the United States Equestrian Federation and the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI).
Have fun, be safe and remember – always wear a helmet!
There are other interesting articles in our section on Health & Education.
Signage is a good start for making farm visitors aware of biosecurity protocol but a point person and educated staff, owners, clients and service providers are all part of the equation to help reduce the risk of introducing or spreading disease on your property.
Ensuring everyone understands their respective biosecurity roles begins with having Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in place.
Work with your veterinarian when reviewing your Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and when developing new ones to target relevant risks. The designated person can then ensure all staff are trained annually and whenever there is a change in process. Maintaining a record of staff training helps to ensure the necessary protocols and risks are addressed. A copy of the farm or facility’s biosecurity protocol should be kept accessible to all potential users. A contact list should be kept of owners, custodians, clients, and service providers including facility workers, veterinarians and so on, in order to distribute and communicate biosecurity information.
Regularly monitor horse health. Train all staff and volunteers to understand and conduct a Horse Health Check Assessment and record the results in the log book along with any concerns and follow-up. Recognizing the signs of illness early and taking immediate action is a crucial step in reducing the risk of spreading disease. Equine Guelph’s Horse Health Tracker App is a very useful guide for this assessment. Protocols for managing the sick horse and other horses are important to have in place. Ensure that everyone understands the protocols. Horse owners, custodians, and farm and facility mangers must discuss these issues to ensure horse health and welfare is maintained.
This is a sample Intro to Lope lesson for horseback riding students demonstrating the 15 minute lesson format used by participants during a Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) riding instructor certification. Visit CHA.horse to find a certification near you.
Read more: Sample Lesson: First Lope with Tara Reimer (17:12)
- Obese Equine Athletes: Are These “Unhealthy” Healthy Horses?
- Facility Design with Biosecurity in Mind
- What's In Your Hay?
- Sample Lesson: Western Turnbacks with Tara Reimer (2:29)
- Reading Horse Behavior with Dale Rudin (7:55)
- Why Do Horse Breeders Terminate a Twin?
- Rood & Riddle Stallside Podcast: The Importance of Ultrasound with Dr Colton Thacker (26:33)
- Infection Disease Control tips for Horse Farms - Dr. Scott Weese (15:62)
- Biosecurity Risk Calculator Healthcare Tool
- Why the Sudden Behavior Change in My Horse?
- Horse Sense & Soldiers with Monty Roberts (50:59)
- Hydrolyzable Carbohydrates and the Metabolic Horse
- Rood & Riddle Stallside Podcast - 0:03 / 27:14 • Intro The Most Interesting Guest so Far with Dr Bart Barber - Episode 50!
- Catching the Horse in a Paddock with Teresa Kackert (5:29)
- Equine Guelph Declares February Colic Prevention Education Month
- The History Of Equine Slaughter In The United States (Part 2 In A Series)
- Rood & Riddle Stallside Podcast - The PET Scan, Old Technology, New Applications with Dr Katie Garrett and Dr Jose Bras (33:01)
- To Shoe or Not to Shoe? An Excerpt from Shoeing the Modern Horse
- Rood & Riddle Stallside Podcast - The Time is Right for Your Barren Mare’s Check up with Dr Pete Sheerin (37:37)
- Ten Tips for Lunging Your Horse