Lacy Hawkins

Lacy Hawkins talks about the most common joint disorders in horses.

Buying a horse is a significant investment. Not only is there the cost upfront of buy-in the horse itself, but the ongoing boarding, feeding, and caring for a horse only adds to the overall price tag. To that end, you want to do a significant amount of research before investing in a horse, not just in regards to the purchase of the horse itself but also in terms of the long-term planning for caring for the horse. Here are three steps to buying a horse.

A competitive horse may struggle for a number of reasons and should not be ignored by trainers. It’s the trainer’s responsibility to investigate the root of the problem. A determined yet unfortunate horse needs this extra push to increase his or her natural ability to compete.

Everyone who has cared for animals knows that they are very special family members. Horses may not be able to come inside the house like other common pets, but they are still just as important. Since they have such a special place in your heart, it is important to make sure your animals are comfortable as they start to age. These are the four best ways to keep an older horse comfortable.
Take Care of Teeth
Just like with humans, horses often have more dental issues as they get older. These te...

While living in the hustle and bustle of a crowded city can sometimes be exciting, there may be nothing better than escaping the crowds and noise for a bit to enjoy the wide-open spaces of nature. What might be even better is spending a few days exploring that nature on horseback. Whether you are looking forward to riding on trails through densely packed or pristine forests or flat prairies with expansive vistas, there are a few things you should do to prepare for spending that much time sitt...

Throughout their lifetimes, horses often suffer from various common injuries that typically require nothing more than first aid measures performed by their owners and caretakers. More serious joint and muscle disorders may occur in horses based on their age, activity level, genetics, and other factors. Veterinarians are well-acquainted with musculoskeletal issues that occur in equine patients.
ArthritisArthritis is a general term that refers to a condition that affects joints and associated t...

A competitive horse may struggle for a number of reasons and should not be ignored by trainers. It’s the trainer’s responsibility to investigate the root of the problem. A determined yet unfortunate horse needs this extra push to increase his or her natural ability to compete.
Invest in corrective training
A horse training and fitness expert engages the horse in a basic training program that includes corrective techniques. This means emphasizing and improving on mistakes that the horse is mak...

Like all expectant mothers, pregnant mares need significant love and care from their human caretakers to safely deliver a healthy baby foal. As female horses are pregnant for an astonishing eleven months, their caretakers have ample time to attend to their health and well-being. Critical aspects of caring for a pregnant horse include:
Proper nutrition
Prior to getting pregnant, the potential mother must receive proper nutrition, primarily through forage. It is advisable for her to gain some w...

A stock horse is a type of horse that is especially suited for working with livestock, particularly cattle. Stock horses are characterized by their intelligence, agility, and quickness. They also tend to have more muscular builds than many other horses, particularly in their hindquarters.
The best-known examples of stock horses are those ridden by cowboys who are in charge of herds of cattle in the western United States. Other regions with a history of cattle husbandries, such as Australia or...

Having the right accessories is a major part of success for horseback riders. Unless a person is going to participate in horse shows, there is no need to purchase more than the essentials for riding comfortably and safely. These essentials include the following:
Riding helmet
Riding boots, hiking boots, or sturdy shoes with heels to prevent feet from sliding forward in the stirrups
Protective vest that is padded well at the shoulders
Riding gloves
A bridle and bit appropriate to the horse
Rei...

Cold winter weather can be difficult for all types of species, including horses. When the snow is falling, and the trees are bare, horses can find themselves suffering from stiffness in their joints. As with humans, this condition can be very painful and can seriously impact a horse’s quality and enjoyment of life. It is essential that human caretakers be vigilant toward their horses’ needs during the cold months and provide them with the necessary tools to help alleviate their joint pain. So...

Ranked among the top 10 most intelligent animals, horses may not be as obedient and affectionate as dogs, but they do show their affection and willingness to comply with the demands of their owners or riders. Although they can be submissive and eager to please their owners, horses are still herded animals. Consequently, they do not exhibit more independent thinking than other intelligent animals; instead, they react instinctively with flight. So, because of their inherent natures, horses bein...

Grooming is one of the necessary tasks associated with owning a horse. Along with providing a one-on-one bonding experience, regular grooming is essential for the health and well-being of the animal. During the grooming process, owners have the opportunity to observe any skin issues that might have developed and provide treatment before the problem worsens. The attention given to the animal also has a calming effect, which is beneficial before a ride or workout. Grooming frequency depends on ...

Although categorized as herd animals, horses retain their distinct personalities as they are listed among the ten most intelligent animals. Owners must take a few steps before a professional trainer arrives to instruct the horse as it is an intelligent animal that may act up.
Get to Know the Personality of the Horse
Watching the horse interact with the other horses in the pasture is an excellent way to understand whether he is a brave leader that exudes confidence or a nervous follower. Spend...