Posts Tagged ‘horse supply’

After years of practicing both conventional and holistic medicine for horses, I decided to compare the cost, effectiveness, and net results of managing and treating horses holistically versus conventionally.

In this article I compare results for the average trail horse that is ridden about 2-3 times a week. I have used average feed and veterinary costs for my area (Austin, Texas), and drug and supplement costs from a major horse supply catalog.

I then discuss the issues related to each area of care, including feed, supplements, vaccines, dewormers, and first aid. Stay tuned for different profiles in coming months, when I will compare horses in different disciplines, young horses, older horses, and broodmares.

>>> Holistic Horse >> Conventional Horse Feed Costs

Grain is slightly cheaper to feed and easier to store than hay, which makes the conventional horse slightly cheaper to feed on the one hand. On the other hand, the holistic horse, which has access to more hay, stays happy and entertained and is less likely to develop expensive habits and vices such as chewing on wood, cribbing, or weaving.

Supplements

In the past, hay and oats provided all the nutrition a horse needed, but these days common farming practices do not produce feeds that are high in vitamins and minerals. Hoof quality is the first area to be affected by such poor nutrition, and few horses can maintain healthy feet on a diet of hay and oats alone. If you doubt this, just check any horse supply catalog. The one I checked offered 22 topical hoof conditioners and 28 separate supplements. Cell Tech’s Super Blue Green Algae offers a wide range of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants in a whole food form. It is inexpensive to feed, promotes healthy feet, and supports the horse in all aspects of health.

Vaccines

Some people will choose not to vaccinate at all while others will choose to use more vaccines than the ones I’ve listed in the trail horse comparison. I believe that over-vaccination is one of the most common triggers for chronic diseases such as laminitis and uveitis, and contributes to allergic conditions. Stressing the horse’s system with over-vaccination can also affect the digestive system, leading to mineral deficiencies. Stress also decreases the amount of healthy bacterial flora in the gut, increasing the likelihood of colic.

Dewormers

We are fortunate to have some fairly safe chemical dewormers such as Pyrantel and Fenbendazole, yet some people still prefer using natural products to support the horse’s digestive and immune systems rather than using chemical dewormers. Regardless of which method you use, it is wise to double check your program with fecal exams at least twice a year.

First Aid

When I practiced strictly conventional medicine I found that most horses suffered from minor injuries or infections at least several times a year. These minor emergencies kept me busy, and because they were so common most of my clients started keeping drugs on hand and learned to treat these conditions themselves.

When I began to treat my patients more holistically, with fewer vaccines and better nutrition (including the use of probiotics such as Acidophilus), I noticed that the horses had less and less need for drugs. My patients no longer needed bute or antibiotics for minor cuts and punctures. These wounds healed quickly and easily with no loss of riding time. Gone also was the aggravating chronic nasal discharge that often kept horses out of work for weeks at a time.

A holistically managed horse with a healthy immune system will often run a fever for a short period of time when exposed to a virus or bacteria. This response slows the pathogen’s growth and deprives it of nutrients. A short course of probiotics will help support the horse during this time. Once the fever breaks, the horse bounces back quickly with little nasal discharge or cough. These horses then go right back to work without concern about relapse. Conventionally managed horses taking anti-inflammatories and antibiotics will often get better in the short term, but then relapse or develop a chronic nasal discharge.

The Results Are In!

The trail horse example I have used above precisely demonstrates what I have experienced in my practice. While it costs about the same to manage a horse either conventionally or holistically, I’ve found that holistically managed horses are much healthier overall, which means fewer chronic problems and more days of riding time. In fact, conventionally managed horses have about 7 times the number of sick days as holistically managed horses.

Madalyn Ward, DVM, co-author of Holistic Treatment of Chronic Lamintis, is certified in Veterinary Homeopathy, Chiropractic and Acupuncture. Through her website, Holistic Horsekeeping, (http://www.holistichorsekeeping.com), she publishes a free monthly newsletter, offers the Healthy, Happy Horse resource group, e-books, holistic horsecare products and information for horse and mule owners.

Author: Dr. Madalyn Ward, DVM
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Cellphone news

If you are looking for good, highly quality Western saddles, then the best place to go would be the markets where there are horses for sale, as well as pre-owned horse tack supply items. You should be able to find some great used saddles and to choose the one that suits the horse and yourself the best. Pay very close attention to the fit of the saddle, as this is what matters when you ride; if it is too loose or too tight, leave it. Go for soft buffed, used leather that not only looks good but also is very comfortable.

When you are looking for proper pre-owned saddles, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind, such as the brand of the saddle, the model of the saddle, the fit to the horse and the present status of the saddle. The brand and the model of the saddle will tell you the actual quality of the saddle. Good brands saddles, no matter how old, are as good as gold. The fit and status of the saddle is important, as this will influence your ride; the horse will not listen to your body language if it does not accept the saddle. This is why it is very important that you find a saddle that not only matches perfectly with what you have in mind, but also is comfortable for your horse.

Do not buy any used Western saddles over the internet, no matter how beautiful and perfect they look. Buying anything that is even remotely connected with horse supply should never be bought unless it is checked, by putting it on the horse, and also inspected for quality. The horse is not an animal that can be trifled with. Many horses refuse to listen to their riders if they are unhappy with their saddles and other gear. Check out the Western horse tack shops as well. For information on what to look for, speak with a veteran horse-rider or educate yourself online.

The best Western saddles are those which are sold as pre-owned at horse supply shops or anywhere where horse equipment is sold. This is because the most important factor is comfort when it comes to saddles. Never buy over the internet since you can’t try it out on your horse before purchasing.

If ever there is a chance of you considering ownership of a horse, then you need to understand that this is not an easy responsibility. Besides providing food and shelter, a lot of equipment and materials are needed to keep them strong and healthy. Stable supplies are very important when it comes to taking care of horses.

With so many tack supply and equipment choices these days, you might get confused as to what to consider first. In any situation, saddle blankets are one of the most important. Aside from keeping the horses warm, they can also protect them from insects and flies, thus keeping your horse healthy and clean. Horse blankets greatly provide these animals with better blood circulation too.

When they are already in the stable, these blankets play a very important role. When choosing blankets, be sure to go for the ones that are durable, breathable, water proof, and made from the highest quality of materials. However, keep in mind that horses can withstand even the coldest of temperatures. It is ideal, therefore, to consider the weight of the blanket and the weather conditions in your area before you decide on which horse tack equipment item is suitable for your animal.

Horse fences are the second most important stable supplies or more correctly stable accessories. For ranchers and estate owners who want their stables to be secured and safe, proper fencing is very important. Keeping horses away from unwanted predators is crucial and the only solution is strong and reliable fencing construction. There are some factors that should be considered, such as the number of animals to be fenced, the nature of the field, and the budget. Additionally, the age of the horses in the pasture is just as important. Young, untrained, abusive, and highly spirited horses need special fencing. When it comes to horse fencing, there are basically three types of approaches, which include rail horse fencing, wire mesh horse fencing, and electric horse fencing. Whichever your preference is, it is still best to have a horse-care professional around to help you make the correct decision.

When visiting your local horse tack shop, consider purchasing tack trunks to store your stable supplies. You can easily organize your stable accessories in this way. This can help keep your horse tools from becoming lost. With so many things to consider about horsemanship, be sure you know how to properly care for the animals. For more information on horse care and supplies, visit www horses com.

Taking care of a horse is not as easy as one may think. Your horse’s health, shelter, food and horse tack supplies are all very important things to consider, with regard to the care of these giant animals. Tack supplies include bridles, crops, brushes, horse shoes, saddles, and a whole lot more, and because there are so many types and brands of tack supplies available today, choosing the right ones can get confusing. Here is a guide on how to choose the right supplies for your horse.

Bridles are one of the most essential horse tack items that you, as a rider, should have. These are used to communicate with your horse. Normally, the most common is the dressage bridle that can fit over the head of the horse and onto his mouth. The reins go back to the rider who uses them to command and control the horse. Horse bridles vary in quality and price, and by standard these bridles should be made of high-quality leather.

Avoid buying poor quality leather as they will crack easily and wear over time, which is not ideal, especially during harsh weather. Check the reins and the cheek-pieces and make sure they are reinforced. The buckles should also be made from stainless steel to avoid rusting. When buying horse bridles, the best advice is to visit a reputable manufacturer that will provide you with some sort of warranty on the product, so you can return them should they not function effectively.

Saddles are very important; not to mention highly expensive horse tack supplies. Basically, there are three types of horse saddles: the Western saddles, English saddles and the side-saddles. Additionally, Western saddles have varied types, including the roping saddle, the endurance saddle, and the barrel racing saddle; while English saddles have the dressage saddle, the polo saddle, and the jumping saddles. Ideally, saddles are made with genuine pure leather. But the more common ones sold these days are those made of suede or synthetic leather. Since there are a lot of options, have a professional horse-care expert with you when you shop.

Another essential in the genre of horse tack supplies are horse boots, which will protect the legs of your horse. In choosing the right horse boots, make sure to go for those that are sturdy, well-constructed and comfortable. When chosen properly, these boots can last up to several years. If you own a horse, and horsemanship is important to you, then it is paramount to provide them with their basic needs. The right horse saddles, horse boots, or horse bridles are but some of the most important things you need for your horse.

Horse tack is the short name for all of the accessories and items that go along with owning and riding a horse. These horse supply items provide many different accessories for different ways of riding horses. There are several main types of tacks, one most notably being the English tack. Horse tack can be bought in many different places, but some stores specialize in particular tack supplies.

There are several main components to the English tack that are different than Western horse tack. Of course, the basic elements are there; the saddle, bridles, stirrups, bits, and harnesses, but for English horses, many of these different items have their own unique twist. Horse riding has been a popular sport in Europe for many years, almost since horses became used for riding, so it is not surprising that they have their own styles of horse supply. The English horse equipment is used for most Olympic sports, and is also used for most other equestrian sports.

The English saddle is different from the western saddle because it is smaller and allows the horse a greatest range of motion. The English bridle has a Cavesson noseband, and is mostly used because it has the greatest functionality. Another English bridle, called the double bridle, has two bits for maximum control by the rider. English riders also use a breastplate to protect the horse in dangerous activities, such as jumping and fox hunting. There is also a difference not only in accessories between the English and Western styles of horse supply, but also in riding style. English riding focuses more on style and precision, while Western riding focuses more on abilities that the horse and rider can do together.

If you want to purchase English tack supplies for your horse, there are many different options. Most tack supply shops offer both the English and Western styles of tack. There are also many different discount tack stores that sell discount riding accessories and tack supplies. These used items can really cut down on costs for those who can’t afford all new materials. The English horse tack is sometimes harder to find, but there are still options. Many stores sell the equipment pieces online. Shipping online can sometimes be expensive, but it can be worth it to get the equipment you need shipped to you. Professional advice can be a huge help in deciding what equipment to purchase.

English tack accessories are necessary for certain types of riding. If someone is involved with this style of riding, then they will need the English horse tack items that go along with it. There are many different shops that sell horse tack, so it should not be hard to find what you need. If this style is new to you, then consult with a professional before buying equipment.

Thinking of investing in a riding horse? While many people prefer to have the easy-to-manage domestic pets, there are some who prefer to take care of bigger animals, like horses. Therefore, it is important to provide them with the right horse tack supply items, especially horse blankets.

Saddle blankets are made to keep horses warm. These blankets are also ideal for protection from wind and other elements. These types of blankets vary in sizes. In fact, most of them are custom-made to perfectly fit around the body of the horse from his chest to rump. Blankets for horses have straps that cross underneath their belly.

Although the blanket are heavily secured and fastened, horses can still move about freely. The most common of these blankets normally have one or two straps that securely buckle in front. However, there are also some designs with closed front, thus requiring it to be slipped over the head of the horse. Also, there are those that have smaller straps lightly lopped around the hind legs of the horse that help to prevent the blanket form slipping sideways.

Horses wear horse blankets especially when they are traveling and they are designed with different weights for different weather conditions; water-resistance blankets are also available. Presently, almost all of these blankets are created and made with the toughest of modern materials. These materials are also the ones used on human outdoor wear. Additionally, blankets for horses also help to keep their hair short. Preventing winter coats is also possible when they are used all throughout autumn. These are also suitable for horses with a partial trace clip or full body clip.

For horses that are always being intensely exercised, the Cooler is the ideal type of horse supply blanket. These are those square horse blankets that can greatly help with proper air circulation after a strenuous physical activity. If you plan on taking care of a horse, then be sure to supply him with the necessary tack supply and horse supply items.

Taking proper care of a horse takes a lot of patience and understanding. In fact, most people don’t know how to care for horses. Not only do they need the basic, like food and shelter, they also need the proper horse tack supplies. Saddles, saddle blankets, horse blankets, horse boots/shoes, and other horse supply products are just some of the essential things that equines need.

Also known as horse shoes, they are generally designed to protect the feet of horses. This is a very simple notion but requires quite a serious approach. Generally, aluminum and steel are used in making these types of shoes. Most of them have an underneath grooves that also provide a better grip. The grooves also make the horse shoes lighter. But did you know that the front part of these shoes is circular in shape and the backs are diamond shaped?

Aside from being sturdy, another factor includes the trimming of the hooves for proper fitting of the shoes. As well, there are four important aspects in shoeing a horse. These are the balance, the support, the shape and the expansion. Such evaluations should be done at least a week or two after a shoeing job. Although it might sound difficult, you only have to have a pencil and a level ground where your horse can stand so that you can evaluate the said factors.

Understand that horse boots/shoes should not be worn all the time. In fact, during very cold winter seasons, it is ideal to remove those shoes from the horses. After all, you won’t be riding horses in the middle of a snow anyway. However, winters vary from one place to another, so if your local climate is not that cold, even if its winter, then try adding pads under the boots. This can help with proper blood circulation of the horse, while improving his expansions and movements.

Horse boots are indeed very important for horses. That is why you should seek the services of a farrier, who is a professional that creates boots/shoes for horses. This means that he is highly-knowledgeable, as far as finding the most ideal shoes for your horse is concerned. Take time to discuss with him the basic things you need to know. Taking care of a horse indeed takes a lot of effort, but as long as you know the necessary things, horsemanship can also be very rewarding.