Yes, I got this idea off Facebook. But it doesn’t necessarily have to be shared there. I think Eclectic Horseman is a fine place. Write a note to the Editor and add your own idea to be included in the next issue of the magazine. Bring your horse in and give him a very good grooming. Then turn […]
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 […]
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 […]
By Sue Stuska Ed.D. We recognize two main types of bits: snaffles and curbs. There are many variations on each type, and some bits combine the actions of both. We will concentrate on snaffles and curbs in this article and do more another time. Even limiting ourselves to these two categories, when we check any tack […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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. […]
Written by Sue Stuska, Ed.D. We each know our horse better than anyone else, we see him more often, and we already have the ability to detect when our horse is “off.” This discussion will help you fine-tune your skills. Noticing Lameness Lameness is often the way we find out that something is wrong. Other […]