Wednesday, May 18, 2011

An Equine First Aid Kit

There are a few essentials you should have on hand in case of an emergency. First aid kits for horses needn't be elaborate. In fact, a lot of the items will be similar to a human first aid kit. (There should be one of those in the barn too.) The quantities of many things may need to be greater, and bandages and wraps will be a bit different. For instance, a disposable diaper can be a good compress or bandage in an emergency. And plain old salt water is cheap, and good for treating several different injuries such as cuts and eye infectionsTop Ten Essential Items for a Horse First Aid Kit makes recommendations for what you'll need to handle most health emergencies and injuries until the veterinarian arrives.

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Tuesday, May 17, 2011

When A Horse Is In Pain

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Remember if you or a member of your family is in pain and is suffering, in most cases, they will let you know. They speak to you and tell you where it hurts; you then do all that is in your power to help them get out of that situation. The horse does the same; the only difference is they tell you through body language not through the use of a verbal communication. These are the same body signs that we use if you look closely. When members of your family are in pain and you look into their eyes you might remember that the eyes of the person effected with pain has less than bright eyes. Their eyes are dull and somewhat cloudy, the horse is the same.

Their eyes are very expressive, look deeply into them the more pain that a horse does suffer the more clouded the eye does become. The member of your family that becomes sore and does not what to do anything, so does the horse. That same member of the family becomes crabby and short in their acceptance of situations, so do horses. Again in different ways, the member of your family shouts and yells verbally and the horse reacts through the use of their body by biting or challenging and/or kicking. The horse is not mean; the horse hurts and wants to be left alone, just as you would until you felt better.

Remember to be more observant and relate to the horse in the only manner that the horse can. You need to learn to speak their language and help them through their situation. Remember that pain is pain and comfort is comfort.

Sunday, May 15, 2011

What Is Cribbing

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Cribbing is an obsessive-compulsive behavior when a horse chews on wood and swallows air. The cribber uses its upper teeth to grab a stationary object, such as a fence board, and then arches its neck, pulls backwards while swallowing air and grunting. Other horses crib by resting their incisors on an object without grasping it; still others rest their chin on an object and swallow air.

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Ground Handling: Horse Lunging Techniques, eXtension

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Horse Handling Through Feel Demonstration by Leslie Desmond

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Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Owning An Old Horse

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Owning an old horse can be at time upsetting when you see your old companion fading away. However, nowadays, horses can live happily until a very old age, some well after the age of 30. Hopefully this article will help you and your old mate find the right care.

According to NRC and veterinary bodies, a horse is considered geriatric at the age of 20. In general, a horse is considered a senior horse from 15-16 years of age. In fact, many horse feed manufacturers provide specifically designed feed stuff for horses 16 and over. Whether it is true or not is debatable. Some horses seem to age earlier, others later. The horse will age differently depending on the lifestyle it had therefore it would be wrong to label all 16 year-old horses as old. However, from 20 onwards, a horse is definitely labelled geriatric as its body and organs have started deteriorating significantly.


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Sims Bell Boots - Product Review

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Thursday, May 5, 2011

Sliding Stops

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There are several factors that influence the length of a horse's slide.

They are:

#1. The horse's natural ability and aptitude for stopping.

#2. The ground the horse is stopping on.

#3. The way the horse is shod.

#4. The horse's rate of speed when going into the stop.

#5. The way the rider cues the horse for the stop (how the reins are worked, rider's posture, etc.).


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Wednesday, April 27, 2011

How to Choose a Saddle for Reining or Cutting, part 2

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How to Choose a Saddle for Reining or Cutting, part 1

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NP Freestyle Winner - Reining

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2010 Freestyle Reining Winner

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AQHA WORLD SHOW WESTERN PLEASURE 2009

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Bridleless bareback polocrosse

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Paradise Lagoons Campdraft

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Horse Training Starts On The Ground

Many horse owners want their horses to be like motorcycles. Just jump on and ride whenever they please. Unfortunately life doesn't work like that. A horse is a living, breathing animal with a mind of his own. Just jumping on and riding-an act many people do-can be downright dangerous. So what is a horse owner to do? To ride safely, a horse owner needs to develop an effective training program for her horse-one that begins with a solid foundation laid on the ground.


Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Calf Roping Horses

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Calf roping horses aren't just in the rodeo ring for their speed and precision; they play a greater role in the event as well. For those who are unfamiliar with calf roping, the event involves the calf roping horse, his rider and a calf. The roping horses are brought up to a full gallop; the rider throws the lasso around the calf and dismounts. The horse then backs up enough to keep tension on the rope while the rider ties the calf. When he returns to the horse, the rider mounts and the tension on the lasso rope is eased to determine whether or not the calf will remain tied

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Quarter Horses In Rodeo

Because of their strong hind legs and muscular power, it is most often the American Quarter Horse that is used in rodeo events. Given that the American Quarter Horse got its name because the breed clocks the fastest quarter mile runs, it's little wonder that, when it comes to timed events in the rodeo ring, Quarter Horses are used for barrel racing and steer wrestling and are considered to be great calf roping horses as well.


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Thursday, April 14, 2011

Polocrosse Masters 2011 QLD vs NSW

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Polocrosse Masters QLD vs NSW

Morgan Park Polocrosse - SA Girls vs NSW

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First round of the interstate girls Polocrosse NSW def SA 21-9

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KW Saddlery At Morgan Park Polocrosse

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Representatives of KW Saddlery will be traveling to Morgan Park in Queensland to compete at the Shell Cup Polocrosse carnival to be held from the 15th to 17th April. Representative teams from all over Australia will battle it out along with numerous teams from both QLD and NSW. Although the girls will be playing they will also have a good supply of Polocrosse Gear on hand for those who still have not stocked up for the start of the QLD season. They will be there from thurs lunchtime and can be found around the Cunningham club camping.
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Victorian Reps - Shell Cup Polocrosse

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NSW Squad For The Shell Cup Polocrosse

Camping At Morgan Park Polocrosse

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Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Article: How To Saddle Your Horse Step-by-Step

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How To Saddle Your Horse Step-by-Step
http://horses.about.com/b/2011/04/10/how-to-saddle-your-horse.htm


How To Saddle Your Horse Step-by-Step

Is it time to saddle up? It is essential that you saddle up safely.
Image: 2005 K. Blocksdorf
These step-by-step instructions show Justine as she saddles up her Arabian mare, Aimee. Whether you ride English or western, these are the basic steps to saddle up a horse. The big difference will be that on a western saddle you’ll be tying up a cinch rather than buckling up a girth. Here’s how to put a saddle on your horse safely.

Read More About Getting Ready to Ride:

How Much do You Know About Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM) - Take the Quiz

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About Horses - All About Horses- Horse Care - Horse Riding - Horse ...
EPM or Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis is a frightening disease. There is no vaccine available, and if EPM isn't caught very early the outcome may not be good. ...
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Horse Riding: Western

Sunday, April 10, 2011

What Is A Hoof Abcess

A hoof abscess is an infection within the hoof in an area called the lamina. The lamina consists of hard and soft sections, designated the insensitive and sensitive lamina, respectively. The hard lamina is essentially the hoof capsule, and the soft lamina is the tissue that connects the hoof capsule to the bone, also known as the white line. On the bottom of the hoof, called the solar surface, the sole of the hoof connects to the hoof wall at the white line. 
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Saturday, April 9, 2011

What Is Colic

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Colic takes place in a horse when the gut becomes bloated as a result of a build up of blockage or gas. Blockage may occur when fecal material is impacted, or in the most grave type of colic, by twisting of the gut. Causes of colic in horses can vary greatly. Reasons for this condition may include damage to the gut resulting from worm infestation, sudden diet changes, stress and even wind sucking. Acute colic can lead to a build up of toxins in the gut or possibly fatal shock and maybe both.

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A First Horse For The Adult

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"Adults are often looking for a long-term relationship. They are looking for a companion as well as a teacher." So less important is the potential resale value of the horse since most adults have no intent to eventually sell their horses.


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Campdrafting Fundamentals - Clip 5

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Campdrafting Fundamentals - Clip 4

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Campdrafting Fundamentals - Clip 3

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Campdrafting Fundamentals - Clip 2

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Campdrafting Fundamentals - Clip 1

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Wednesday, April 6, 2011

horse dental into the horse's mouth

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Equine Dentistry Made Easy to Understand

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Equine Dentistry

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How To Mount A Horse

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Whether riding in a school or outdoor area, every rider must ensure that his horse stands quietly until he is on its back and ready to move off.

The reins should be fastened and sitting flat upon the horse’s neck.  Whilst preparing to mount, the rider should always have one arm through the reins, e.g whilst adjusting the stirrups down, adjusting the stirrup leathers or tightening the girth.  It is unsafe to leave a horse standing by itself whilst mounting: even the tamest: best trained horse can take become spooked and run away, causing serious injury to itself as well as to other horses and riders.


Always adjust the stirrups before mounting.  The length should be approximately equal to the length of the outstretched arm, with the finger tip on the tongue of the buckle by the stirrup bar.  The length is about right if, with the leather taught, the stirrup reaches the armpit.


To mount, stand on the near side of the horse(left), with your back to the horses head, and begin to mount as follows:


• grasp the reins in your left hand on top of the horse’s neck, with the left rein between the third finger and the little finger, and the right rein running through the palm of the hand.  Both reins should be in like contact with the horse’s mouth with a slightly stronger contact on the right rein if the horse fidgets.


• step far enough back and to the right to be able to put your left foot in the stirrup.


• grasp the mane in your left hand, and with your right hand take hold of the stirrup leather and turn it towards you.


• place your left foot in the stirrup so that the stirrup is behind the ball of the foot, then lean your left knee against the saddle so that your toe does not disturb the horse.


• stand on tiptoe on your right foot, catch hold of the cantle of the saddle with your right hand, hold on to the mane or the pommel with your left hand, transfer your weight onto your left foot, press your left knee against the saddle and push off energetically with your right foot, leaning or upper body forwarded you do so.


• placing your right hand on the pommel for support, swing your right leg slowly over the croup and lower your seat carefully into the saddle.


• place your right foot in the stirrup and take up your reins.


A mounting block or store can be used as an aid.  This is of particular benefit to our older riders a also helps to prevent damage to the horse’s back.  Before moving off, the rider should transferred the right rein into his right hand and then make the horse stand still for a while before moving off.

FEI World Cup Dressage - Grand Prix Freestyle to Music 2008

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Snaffle Bits

KW Saddlery

The purpose of snaffles is to train the horse for responsiveness at the mere touch of the reins." What if your horse will not listen to the snaffle? Most will find a more severe bit. When you understand it is not the equipment that makes your horse responsive, you will understand the folly in this reasoning. If you only change to a harsher bit, your riding stays the same, the horse will become accustomed to that pain as he did the milder bit. Now you are stuck in a cycle of finding a bit that produces enough pain that your horse will respond to your uneducated hands.

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What Makes A Horse Your Partner

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The folk tale is that horse training tack are your best tools for making your horse your partner. And while the correct training tack can make the difference in the performance of your horse, it is not the tack that makes a good partner. Yes, some training devices are effective for making a horse stop on cue, spin correctly, and keep a certain head position, most use pain as a teacher. We as the higher intelligence need to develop a two way communication line with the horse that makes sense to the horse in order to teach them effectively.

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What Do You Need To Train Your Horse

KW Saddlery

Horses can be tough animals to crack. Aside from being among the proudest and at times the most stubborn animals to roam the planet, horses need a fair and consistent cue system in order to form a solid communication base to help them learn what you want them to do. While you can find a piece of equipment that will fix every ail, you actually only need one bit, one bridle and educated hands for making your horse a fine mount.


How to play Polocrosse Part 4.mp4

Monday, April 4, 2011

What To Look For In A Dressage Horse

KW Saddlery

If you are looking to acquire a dressage horse for future competition, you will want to consider the abilities and traits of the person for whom the horse is intended. While the judges critique dressage horses in competition more than the rider, it is equally important for the rider to be able to guide the horse and to lead it through the judged events. If you are naturally uneasy atop a horse, then you will want to find a horse that is very intuitive and calm. If you were really tall and lanky, you would not want to get a shorter horse, no matter how successful the horse has been in previous competitions.

When A Horse Rears

KW Saddlery

Although it's not one hundred percent infallible, the best way to protect yourself when a horse rears with you is to lean forward immediately and put your hands forward so you have loose reins. If you have to, you could even put your arms around his neck, let go of the reins and slide off. For my money, there aren't any other safer ways to deal with a horse if he suddenly rears.

Sunday, April 3, 2011

Shoeing Your Horse

KW Saddlery

Make sure that you have a good farrier. If a horse gets sore feet or legs from bad angles or bad shoeing, the horse can not just take his shoes off, sit back on a couch, and rub their feet, or find another pair of shoes like you can. Bad shoeing can result in your horse becoming lame due to a number of problems including: bowed tendons, popped splints, or shoulder/back soreness or spasms. Bad shoeing can ruin a good horse, so don't be penny-wise and pound-foolish where shoeing is concerned. A laid-up horse is far more expensive to maintain than a good farrier. And remember not all horses need to have shoes, only if they are competing, walking on hard/rocky surfaces, or have hoof problems.

Grooming Horses

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Keep your horse clean. Keep your horse's entire coat free from dirt, mud, sand, and sweat. Brush your horse every day. Pick out your horse's feet every day. Wash out any sweat residue from the saddle pad or girth every day. Wash out any dirt or sand residue, as from the riding arena, on your horses legs every day. A number of different problems can result if a horse's coat is not kept clean.

Relationship With Horses


A horse will love you if, first and foremost, you treat it fairly, and secondly, if you allow yourself to develop a relationship with it in the same way you would a human partner. There are too many who will look after the horse's material needs but put nothing back into the partnership itself. The horse born in captivity will identify with an alternative provider and companion, resulting in a healthy relationship from the beginning. A healthy relationship with your horse requires: trust, coupled with respect, fondness with compliance, and a desire to please.

Horse Riding - It is a Sport!

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Monty Roberts Horse Trailer Loading

Monty Roberts Join Up Example

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Friday, April 1, 2011

Campdrafting Fundamentals - Clip 1

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Campdrafting Fundamentals - Clip 2

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Campdrafting Fundamentals - Clip 3

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Campdrafting Fundamentals - Clip 4

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A Mustang Story - "Training a Wild Horse" (Introduction)

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Why You Should Consider Electric Fencing for Horses

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There are many positives to installing electric fencing for horses instead of common fencing solutions, more and more horse enthusiasts are making use of electric fences as a safe and reliable containment solution. This article highlights some of those benefits.

Electric fencing has many positives which makes it a wiser investment than most traditional fencing, and it would appear that a growing volume of animal enthusiasts view these benefits as worthy of investing in this kind of containment. What usually hold people back from purchasing such a fence, i.e. the fear that it would harm their animals, has long been disproven and many animal owners now know someone who owns a fence and will recommend their safety that sales are growing.
Not convinced? Ok, let's examine the benefits.

These fences are perfect for housing horses because:

Electric fences are undoubtedly much safer than conventional wooden fencing - if a horse is scared and in a rage decides to charge your fence, an ordinary post and wire fence will not buckle under the weight and the horse will fall or worse, fracture a leg. An electric fence will absorb the impact without harming the animal. A lot of is actually tall and therefore acts as much more of a barrier. The horse is far less likely to attack the fence or attempt to jump it.
These fences are more affordable and cost effective than common fencing: because many horses use classic fence posts to get at an itch, they can easily become breached and need repairs which is both costly in time and money. An electric fence is cheaper to buy and takes a fraction of the time to set up and being made from strong materials, not wood, they last longer in the elements.

Electric fences are not built from ordinary materials, they are specifically moulded from heavy duty weather resistant materials engineered to withstand the worst a British winter can give. This also affords them the durability to withstand biting or cribbing from horses who may become curious. This means less maintenance costs. These fences are straight forward and quick to put together and disassemble as required: unlike conventional fencing which is grounded and permanent, the fencing is portable, can be collapsed and erected quickly and easily which is perfect for temporary containment for instance if a horse is ill
So as you can see the positives are wide ranging and substantial, the amount of time you could regain alone makes the investment viable.

Electric fencing for horses, why is it so suitable?

Using electric fencing for horses is a suitable option because they are fairly simple to keep with such fencing. Horses are intelligent animals and soon learn to respect the fence. Some people are concerned about whether electrical fences are safe, but I assure you they are. If the horse touches the wire or tape on an electric fence it closes the electrical circuit which allows the current to pass via the horse and dirt in a bid to return to the energizer. Horses are particularly effective conductors, especially if their hooves are shod with metal, as they have comparatively thin hides. This will result in the horse experiencing a harmless jolt and it will back away from the electrified fence, learning not to try that again.

About the Author
Buying your first electric fence can be a puzzling affair; which one to get? how does it work? what voltage to use? Thats why its best to talk to an expert, like Electric Fence Systems and other suppliers of electric fencing for horses who can advise you on the most appropriate fencing solution.

Paso Fino Horses

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By Shannon Margolis

The Paso Fino Horse is one of the world's most exciting breeds giving the smoothest ride in the world and attracting many riders.

The gait of the Paso Fino Horses is unique and for those of us with bad backs, bad knees, and many other problems caused by years of riding, the Paso is the ideal choice. The movement actually eases stiffness in joints and promotes good circulation. There are many things you can do with the Paso Fino Horses. They are such good weight carriers and have superb stamina, so endurance is one of their talents.

The questions that we are most often asked is why are the Paso Finos so special, and why do you love them so much? The Paso Finos are very versatile, and easy to train. The thing with the Paso Fino Horses is that they touch your heart and once they have done this there's no getting them out of your system.

They are so loving and generous. They are small horses with big hearts and big personalities. In the years I have been around these horses I have never met one with any malicious tendencies. But you can never truly understand the magic of the Paso Fino Horse until you have ridden one. The Paso Fino Horse has an isochronal, 4-beat gait, which is totally natural. This is what makes these horses so amazing. As it is a natural gait, nothing of the movement is forced, making it a smoother ride.

Not only do the Paso Finos gait, but they can also trot and canter, which shows the versatility of the breed. The Paso Fino Horse is very balanced in gait and can carry an amazing amount of weight.

The three speeds of the Paso Fino Gait are:

Slow - FINO - the movement of the legs is very fast, however the steps are short and rapid. Therefore there seems to be a great deal of energy and activity, but a very slow forward movement.

Moderate - PASO CORTO - With the speed of a working trot, this gait covers the ground more as the steps are larger than the Fino movement.

Fast - PASO LARGO - This is the speed of canter. It is the fastest speed of the gait. There is further extension of the steps, which means they can cover more ground.

The Paso Fina Horse developed in Spain through the Barb, which produced the Spanish Jennet, and the Andulasian. Columbus transported the horses to what is now the Dominican Republic. Subsequent explorers took them to Puerto Rico, Colombia, Cuba, Panama and Mexico.

These stunning horses range in size from 13.2 hh to 15.2 hh and are in every colour.

The Paso temperament is kind and gentle. Once experienced, these horses become seriously addictive. We were the first to introduce these horses to Britain and we are the foremost stud with an internationally approved breeding programme.

We hope that after meeting them you'll love them as much as we do.

About The Author

Shannon Margolis
IT Marketing Coordinator

For additional information please visit www.horsegalore.com

View their website at: http://www.horsegalore.com

Thursday, March 31, 2011

UK Polocrosse Video - Chapter 2 - part 1

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UK Polocrosse Video Chapter 2 - Part 2

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Basic Horsemanship : Rider Position on a Horse

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Beginning Horse Riding : Horse Riding Balance & Body Mechanics

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Beginning Horse Riding : Collection Horse Training a Jog

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Trick Horse Training

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Cueing A Horse For The Stop

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Evolution Of The Horse

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The horse (Equus ferus caballus) is a hooved (ungulate) mammal, a subspecies of the family Equidae. The horse has evolved over the past 45 to 55 million years from a small multi-toed creature into the large, single-toed animal of today. Humans began to domesticate horses around 4000 BC, and their domestication is believed to have been widespread by 3000 BC. Although most horses today are domesticated, there are still endangered populations of the Przewalski's Horse, the only remaining true wild horse, as well as more common populations of feral horses which live in the wild but are descended from domesticated ancestors. There is an extensive, specialized vocabulary used to describe equine-related concepts, covering everything from anatomy to life stages, size, colors, markings, breeds, locomotion, and behaviour.

Horses' anatomy enables them to make use of speed to escape predators and they have a well-developed sense of balance and a strong fight-or-flight instinct. Related to this need to flee from predators in the wild is an unusual trait: horses are able to sleep both standing up and lying down. Female horses, called mares, carry their young for approximately 11 months, and a young horse, called a foal, can stand and run shortly following birth. Most domesticated horses begin training under saddle or in harness between the ages of two and four. They reach full adult development by age five, and have an average lifespan of between 25 and 30 years.

Horse breeds are loosely divided into three categories based on general temperament: spirited "hot bloods" with speed and endurance; "cold bloods", such as draft horses and some ponies, suitable for slow, heavy work; and "warmbloods", developed from crosses between hot bloods and cold bloods, often focusing on creating breeds for specific riding purposes, particularly in Europe. There are over 300 breeds of horses in the world today, developed for many different uses.

Horses and humans interact in a wide variety of sport competitions and non-competitive recreational pursuits, as well as in working activities such as police work, agriculture, entertainment, and therapy. Horses were historically used in warfare, from which a wide variety of riding and driving techniques developed, using many different styles of equipment and methods of control. Many products are derived from horses, including meat, milk, hide, hair, bone, and pharmaceuticals extracted from the urine of pregnant mares. Humans provide domesticated horses with food, water and shelter, as well as attention from specialists such as veterinarians and farriers.


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How to play Polocrosse Part 3

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Wednesday, March 30, 2011

UK Polocrosse Video - Chapter 2 - part 1

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2011 USA World Cup Polocrosse Squad | Me And My Gang

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NCHA Cutting Horse - Music Video

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The Basis Of Horse Training

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Horses are very useful and trainable animals. They can me used for a limitless variety of tasks such as farming, sports, recreation, and even warfare. Their tremendous strength and endurance are very valuable attributes. Not only are they gifted with tremendous physical qualities but they are also intelligent and very receptive to human commands. Beginner horse training can be fun for both you and your equine companion. There are many different types of horse training techniques, so make sure you are knowledgeable about whatever you choose to apply.

Horses can even be trained in specialized tasks and they thrive in any work they are assigned to do. They can do police work, and they can also be graceful animals for royalty and equestrian activities. They can also be used on farms and in the wilderness. Horses are incredibly versatile animals. They are functional as well as exquisite. Not to mention the fact that they love to please.

However, training a horse can be a real challenge especially for beginners and new horse owners. First and foremost, to be able to train a horse well, the individual must understand how the horse thinks and always -- I mean always -- consider the animal's instincts! As animals, instincts always reign above any training or conditioning. Having said that, a horse can be trained quickly and easily when you understand their innate behavior and work with the animal to achieve the desired success. 

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The Thrill of Cutting

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Check Your Horse On A Daily Basis

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Examine your horse every day and especially prior to riding the horse. Carefully examine the horse's legs and back for any unusual heat or lumps. Make sure that the horse's eyes are alert and not glazy. Listen for any excessive noise or gurgling sounds coming from your horse's stomach. Catching problems before they become serious is critical to keeping a  horse sound and alive.

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Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Silverdale Campdraft Clinic

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Reining Training Your Horse to Spin pt.3

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Reining Training Your Horse To Spin Part 2

Reining Training Your Horse to Spin pt.1

Farrier Education

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Horse Equipment Needed For Hacking Out Safely

KW Saddlery - Quality Gear For Horse And Rider

By Tammy Patterson

It is important to remember that any equipment when used on or around horses should be kept in a good condition and free from wear and tear. In particular, important items such as reins, girth, girth straps and stirrup leathers should be regularly checked to prevent wear and tear from going unnoticed and becoming dangerous. It is not only the stitching that needs to be monitered, any leather should be cleaned regularly and a suitable leather cleaner / saddle soap should be used to prevent cracks, weaknesses and tears. Whichever saddle you use, GP, western or synthetic, it should fit correctly and your bridle should sit comfortably and neither should rub in any place.

There are a wide range of safety accessories that can be utilised when hacking.

Boots and or bandages are the best ways of offering protection to the horses legs. There are many different types, fetlock boots; brushing boots; complete boots that offer protection to the tendons and fetlocks as well as wicking moisture away from the legs, preventing rubbing and over-reach boots. These can be made using many different materials, leather, neoprene, nylon and synthetic fabrics are all common.

When you know that the ground or footing in areas you will be hacking through are likely to be slippery, deep or icy, hoof boots with studs or having studs put into the horses shoes can assist in giving the horse a firmer footing, helping to prevent dangerous slipping and sliding. There are other techniques that can help to prevent the build up of snow in the horses hooves that can be discussed with your farrier if you find yourself having to ride in snowy conditions frequently.

A mobile phone is now an essential of everyday life for most people. For safety reasons this should also be taken with you when hacking out, especially if riding out alone. This is best carried in a secure pocket with the ringer off so as not to startle your horse should it go off. In the event of in emergency you can use your phone to call the vet, your yard or your home should you need it. Even the most isolated areas should allow you to use emergency numbers, preventing you from being stranded in the case of an emergency.

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About Polocrosse

KW Saddlery - Quality Gear For Horse And Rider


Polocrosse is a fast-paced, skillful and exciting game played on horseback.
It presents an incomparable athletic challenge involving speed and stamina, and also demands lightning quick reflexes in both horse and rider.

Polocrosse is one of only three sports that Australia can truly claim as its own; the others being Australian Rules Football and Campdrafting.

In 1938, the sport was created by Mr & Mrs Edward Hirst from Sydney. After visiting England, where they witnessed an indoor horse exercise used to help young riders take better charge of their horses, they developed the exciting horse sport we see today.

Being a sport the whole family can play, Polocrosse caters for everyone from the expert 'A Grade' and elite player to the once a year 'casual' player. Polocrosse has Mini Junior (non-competitive), Sub Junior, Junior, Intermediate, Open & Masters levels. Some levels have separate men, women and mixed competition, however it is one of the few sports where male and female players can compete equally
in the same team.

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The History Of Polocrosse

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In 1938 the Polocrosse developed from an amalgamation of polo, lacrosse and netball.  It is recognized as being one of only three uniquely Australian sports - the others being Campdrafting and Australian Rules Football.

In the beginning two horse riding teachers at Britain’s National School of Equitation made an indoor training exercise to re-enforce the teaching at the school.  It was configured to make the beginner riders increase the control of their horses and whilst on a trip to England, horse breeders Mr and Mrs Edward Hirst saw the activity. Once back in Australia, and with the assistance of an seasoned horseman and polo player, Mr Alf Pitty, the Hirsts conceived the game of Polocrosse in Australia.


Polocrosse is an outside team sport that is conducted on horseback by men and women and children alike. All riders use a racquet, made up of a polo-stick shaft with a racquet type head that has a knotted string net in which the ball is picked up, carried and thrown.  A Polocrosse ball is comprised of a thick-skinned soft rubber and is aproximately 100mm -130mm in diameter. Competitors pick the ball up from the ground, pass the ball, bounce the ball and carry the ball in order to to take the ball into their scoring area and throw a goal.


A team comprises six players, made up of two sections of three. Each section plays alternating chukkas of either six or eight minutes each, with generally four chukkas making up a game whilst sometimes up to eight chukkas are played.  The three players in each section are numbered – No. 1 is the attack, or goal scorer, No. 2 is the centre, and No. 3 is the defense. The playing field is 146.5 m long and 55m wide, with goal posts at each end.


Horses are usually up to 15.2 hands. Australian Stock Horses and thoroughbreds are typically used. The game calls for the horse to be able to stop and turn extremely fast, to accelerate quickly, to have stamina and to push and ride-off other horses.

A high priority has always been given to the safety of both horses and players and this is ensured through a well organized system of umpiring.  Polocrosse was intended to be a game which allowed the inexpensive enjoyment of one’s horse, hence the rule of one horse - one player and the playing of alternate chukkas.


Polocrosse is unique in its involvement of the whole family. Children start playing from as young as 6 years, and there are many players who are in their 60’s – so it is not uncommon to have children, parents and grandparents playing, and to have brothers, sisters, Mums and Dads all in the one team! In this way Polocrosse becomes a shared passion of the whole family.


The sport took a leap forward in 1976 when the International Polocrosse Council was established by Mr Max Walters AM, MBE.  Today the sport is played worldwide.

The most significant milestone has been the staging of two Polocrosse World Cups in 2003 and 2007.  Australia, Canada, England, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, USA and Zimbabwe took to the field at Australia's premier Polocrosse facility at Morgan Park, Warwick in Queensland.  Australia has won both the World Cups.


KW Saddlery - Quality Gear For Horse And Rider

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Take This Trail Riding Quiz

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Trail riding is a lot of fun. Many folks enjoy the adventure of trail riding exclusively, while others use it as a break from riding in the ring. Because you are outside of the ring, you can encounter a lot more hazards when riding out.
Image:2006 K. Blocksdorf
The hazards increase when you add in riding along roadsides or getting caught after dark. But trail riding needn't be dangerous if you observe a few rules, that are after all, good sense. Take the Trail Riding Quiz to find out if you have the smarts to stay safe when heading outside of the ring or arena.

There are Lots More Quizzes to Try:

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