Dr Mac
Reducing stress in broodmares
Owners of broodmares should ensure that their animals’ feed is optimal and the timing is right, says Dr Mac.
How to fit a western saddle
An ill-fitting saddle can affect performance and even cause behavioural problems and back injuries in a horse. Follow these few simple techniques to ensure a good fit, says Dr Mac.
The right music for dressage
Many riders have been inspired to try the musical kur after watching the recent Olympics, says Dr Mac.
How to keep a pale horse clean
Washing pale horses can be a thankless task, as they like rolling in mud soon afterwards, says Dr Mac.
Keeping chickens in the stables
Keeping chickens in and around a stable has its pros and cons, but with a little care and planning, fowls can help to keep pest numbers down, says Dr Mac.
A day at a horse show
I recently visited an agricultural show in the Western Cape, where all the horses and ponies gave their best performances, trying hard to please their owners.
Transporting your horse
Dehydration, stress and injury during long-distance road travel can be avoided with a little planning, explains Dr Mac.
Fighting flies in horse stables
Some practical fly control strategies from Dr Mac.
Getting ready for a show
When competing in a show, you’ll need more than just a horse in good condition, cautions Dr Mac.
De-worming your horses
It’s a good idea to de-worm in winter to bolster condition, writes Dr Mac.
Preventing colic
Colic can be caused by various things, but the good news is that by reducing risk factors you’ll dramatically reduce the chances of your horse suffering from this condition, says Kim Dyson.
Using a snaffle bit
Snaffles generally suit all types of riders and are comfortable for novice horses, writes Dr Mac.
Horses at Nampo
As most readers will know, the Nampo Harvest Day was initially intended to show off advances in technology associated with planting, harvesting and processing maize, but it’s evolved into the biggest agricultural show in South Africa.
Using AI
Live coverings can injure both horses, so more and more breeders are turning to artificial insemination, writes Dr Mac.
Beware of bute!
The painkiller horse owners like so much is really quite toxic, warns Dr Mac.
A breeder’s best friends
Breeders tend to take the pedigrees of their horses for granted, not realising that they are important legal documents. This is where the Animal Improvement Act and the South African Studbook and Animal Improvement Association come in, writes Dr Mac.
Sand arenas
The growing popularity of sand arenas at SA shows means adapting your training ground, says Dr Mac.
Why there’s no such thing as a white horse.
Black, brown, bay, chestnut, palomino - horses come in several colours. Except white. Dr Mac explains why.
Treating ringworm in horses
If you have itchy red spots, beware - you might have caught them from your horse, warns Dr Mac.
Teaching your horse to tie up
Before you start these lessons, it's essential for your horse to trust you completely. He must know how to relax and give in to positive pressure. Once your horse is used to being tied, you can tie him anywhere without worrying he'll try to free himself violently, writes Dr Mac.
