Lipizzaner stallions in South Africa
Lipizzaners, well known for their high-level dressage displays, originated more than four centuries ago. However, the breed continues to amaze, says Dr Mac.
Treating nosebleeds in horses
Horses that suffer from pouring nosebleeds after exercise should be examined by a vet, says Dr Mac.
Why arthritis treatments are controversial
There are various treatments available for equine osteoarthritis. However, these are mainly palliative and do not promote healing, says Dr Mac.
Inherited night blindness
Reduced vision at night and a reluctance to enter dark stables in the daytime may be associated with night blindness, says Dr Mac.
Severing the umbilical cord
As a rule, you should avoid tying off the umbilical cord after birth. However, if very heavy bleeding occurs, it’s time to act, advises Dr Mac.
Meconium retention in foals
About 2% of foals are unable to expel the meconium within the first 24 hours after birth, warns Dr Mac.
Cushioned overshoes for horses
In the US, Soft-Ride boots are often used to make a horse more comfortable on a hard floor, such as in a stable or a horsebox. South African owners should consider using them too, says Dr Mac.
Why cutting horses are useful
Certain horse breeds have an inborn ability to separate a cow from a herd, a trait that makes them a valuable partner on a farm, says Dr Mac.
‘Is my horse bay or brown in colour?’
Knowing the difference is important to breeders, as the genetics are not the same, although the colours may appear similar, says Dr Mac.
How stride length influences your horse’s jump
Jumping to win means you have to feel each stride as you ride and know when to shorten or lengthen it, says Dr Mac.
Controlling worms in horses
Experience over the past two years has demonstrated the value of monitoring egg counts in manure. This is key to planning an effective worm control programme, says Dr Mac.
Opening a gate from horseback
It’s convenient to be able to open farm gates without dismounting. Here’s how to teach your horse the trick. Be prepared, though, to invest a bit of time and patience, cautions Dr Mac.
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