Horses

Is your horse avoiding the bit or ducking to one side? It might be having teeth problems, writes Dr Mac.

Horse lovers can chat for hours about their horses and their wonderful personalities – but what are their animals’ actual strengths and weaknesses? How do they get along with other horses?

Osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease, can affect any joint, but it’s most common in the knee, hock, fetlock and coffin joints.

A regular cleaning regime is the best way to keep your tack clear of mildew. Dr Mac discusses an effective step-by-step routine.

If you’ve ever owned a horse that can open a locked stable door you’ll know how quickly they pick up a new trick! Horses love to learn tricks and there’s no better way to improve communication between the two of you.

With event pressure weighing heavy on many riders, Kim Dyson suggests some relaxation techniques.

The seeds of Datura species can cause fatal impaction colic, warns Dr Mac.

Competitive behaviour is human nature. Deep inside all riders, there is a desire to compete in shows. You polish yourself and your horse, you practise until you’re sure that you’re ready.

Any horse person will tell you about the hours of laughter that you'll get out of sharing jump stories. Go to the Sappi horse trials and you will notice how difficult it is to find a spot next to the water jump.

It is important to know the basics when taking care of your horse, but in some cases you might do more harm than good. Kim Dyson explains when you can handle injuries and illness yourself, and when to call in professional help.

Unfit horses with long coats are more prone to heat stress, writes Dr Mac.

Your horse should lift all four feet willingly when asked, writes Dr Mac.