“One Size Fits All” Horse Management
I’m going to stir the pot…
The “old way” of “one size fits all” management for horses doesn’t work. Every horse is an individual with unique needs. This requires their owner being educated so that they can effectively evaluate the pros and cons of each choice they make regarding their horse’s care.
For example, I have made posts before about how I personally avoid using boots and wraps on my horses. There is research showing that the excessive heat that is trapped in boots and wraps can lead to tendon cell death, additionally, the horses I ride consistently don’t interfere when I ride them. I had my heart horse for 7 years and only used boots on him when I jumped, and he never injured himself once while I rode.
However, my best friend, who is an incredible horse woman, uses boot and wraps on her horses constantly. They are accident prone and have hurt themselves when they have not had protection on their legs in the past. So she weighs the risk of potential long term damage against the risk of acute, short term damage and made the decision that was best for her animals.
Here’s the truth: my choice, and her choice, are both the right decision for our horses. We’re both educated, and we came to different conclusions. And that’s okay.
The more that horse owners can learn, from multiple perspectives, the better equipped they will be to best care for their horse.
I see a lot of big barns insist on every horse having the same routine: a certain number of days in work, a specific brand of saddle and bit, a limit on turn out, and a specific feed. While I understand the need for order, having run a barn myself, I encourage trainers and barn managers to embrace each horse’s individuality. I know it’s possible, as I have many wonderful trainers in my programs who do this whole heartedly.
If someone has ever told you that you aren’t good or knowledgeable enough to advocate and improve your horse, that’s a load of BS. Horse owners should be empowered to help their horses, not discouraged from playing a role in their care.
What are your thoughts on this? Let me know in the comments below!
