Rain Rot?
Yes, the rain has been significant this spring
year. Solutions depend on the horse and the
severity of the problem. Some have had success
with a mixture of Listerine and Mineral Oil -
put 1/2 & 1/2 into a fly sprayer, shake it
up and spray twice on the areas affected. The
mineral oil allows it to last longer when it
does rain. One vet (unnamed) recommends DMSO but
it burns on some horses' sore areas. Another
option is Noxema - also useful for noseeems, bug
bites and sun burn. Horses don't like the smell
much, but it keeps them from licking it off.
There are many options available, including
expensive vet creams. See:
http://www.equusite.com/articles/health/healthRainRot.shtml
Ground Training - why is it so important?
Groundwork is essential for your horse to
respect you and will definitely help when
riding. Need more? Look at
http://www.alphahorse.com/horse-groundwork.html
Trail Riding - Plan ahead. Your horse will
enjoy a change of venue from the show ring and
lessons. Horses become more calm, more fit and
less spooky if trail riding is incorporated in a
regular work out. Safety is critical. Plan
ahead for good weather, but a last minute check
on the weather is always a good idea, especially
with our recent VA storms. Always go with a
buddy. See:
http://horses.about.com/od/horsesportsexplained/a/trailsaftey.htm
The Power of "3" and Horses: Horse trainers
have their secrets, but one heard repeatedly is
the Power (or Magic) of 3. The horse needs to
respond within 3 seconds or is corrected, repeat
each lesson 3 times, go 3 times around the ring,
practice a specific move 3 times, wait 3-10
seconds before trying/training something new, on
and on. Take your time and be patient with your
horse's training. Believe it or not -
Experiment on your own. Here is one view:
http://www.successfulhorse.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=blogcategory&id=25&Itemid=57
