Basic Trail Etiquette: Stay safe and have fun on your next trail ride

Written by Sue Stuska Ed.D. This article originally appeared in Eclectic Horseman Issue No.28 Riding outside over uneven terrain and around natural obstacles is a wonderful way to extend your training and is great fun. Riding out with others helps your horse to learn manners in company while letting you enjoy your friends. Whether trail […]

The Hoof: Shoeing and Trimming

Written by Sue Stuska Ed.D Hoof Function in Movement The horse’s hoof is an amazing structure. Understanding how it works will help us make good shoeing and trimming decisions in cooperation with the farrier. The barefoot hoof lands on the full near-circular extent of the wall. The wall’s toe is relatively thick (from inside to outside), so […]

Coggins Test – Why?

Written by Sue Stuska, Ed.D. This article originally appeared in Eclectic Horseman Issue No.13 You probably already have had your horse tested for EIA. This article will explain the importance of Coggins testing and describe the challenges of Equine Infectious Anemia. State Regulations Each state has, and enforces, its own regulations for Coggins testing and […]

Introducing a New Horse to the Herd

Written by Sue Stuska Ed.D. Whether you’re moving your horse into a new boarding situation, or you’ve purchased a new horse to add to the existing herd, an understanding of herd dynamics and suggestions for easing the transition are useful. We’re assuming that your goal is to have two or more horses live harmoniously in […]

Signs of Sickness – How to read your horse’s behavior

Written by Sue Stuska, Ed.D. This article originally appeared in Eclectic Horseman Issue No.10 We’re striving to become more sensitive to our horses while we work with them on the ground and while we’re riding. Some horse behaviors, reactions and conditions relate to their physical well-being. Health awareness also becomes more refined with our knowledge […]

Choosing Hay When the Weather Hurt the Harvest

Written by Sue Stuska, Ed.D. Your horse needs it. It is a valuable source of nutrients and provides the roughage his digestive system needs. But all hay is not created equal. Drought can severely limit your selection and drive up the price. What choices are healthy ones for your horse? How can you critique hay […]

Vital Signs – Clues to Your Horse’s Condition

Written by Sue Stuska, Ed.D. These six vital signs give you clues to evaluate your horse’s well-being. Vital signs readings give you information that can help you figure out whether he’s OK or sick. If he’s sick, they can help you determine how sick. They help you determine whether or not to call the veterinarian. […]

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