Saturday November 28, 2009
There are many types of bits out there. But there are basically two types--curbs and snaffles. Although the two types have many similarities, how they work on the horse's mouth, head and chin are very different.
Do you know what type of bit pictured here?
Is it a curb or a snaffle? How can you tell? What is the difference between a curb and a snaffle bit? There are five more bits to identify in the Curb or Snaffle Bit Quiz. If you've explored Bits and Bridles Explained this quiz should be a snap! Don't forget to let me know how you did! Did you know you can get horse quizzes delivered to your email inbox? Sign up now for the Test Your Horse Savvy quiz series.
Read More About Bits
Wednesday November 25, 2009
Turkey dinners, full contact shopping and homes full of relatives.
Photo 2009 K. BlocksdorfIf there is one thing that I'm thankful for, it's time with my horse that allows me to focus and unwind. I simply can't think a negative or worried thought while I'm on my horse's back. Just being with her quiet presence, currying and polishing, is calming. Chances are, if there are horses in your life, you've got a lot to be thankful for. I am so thankful for Trillium, who has taught me so much. I know having horses has allowed me to meet people and have experiences that I may not have had otherwise. I'm thankful to my family, who make it easy to keep all of our horses. I'm thankful that I have a daughter, who is already a better rider than I am, and shares my enjoyment. I'm thankful for my husband and son, who put up with it all. Horses are a luxury. It's easy to take the ownership of one (or many) for granted. I'm also very thankful for chance the share what I know (and it seems so little sometimes) with you and contribute to your enjoyment of horses. What are you thankful for? Leave your comments below.
Tuesday November 24, 2009
A while ago several horses at the barn had their teeth floated. I had Trillium's checked, but she didn't seem to need work. I have had horses in the past that needed floating twice a year. The age of the horse, where and what it eats, and how fast its teeth grow all have a bearing on the frequency teeth need attention.
Many horses need semi-annual, annual floats or at very least a regular check up. Floating the teeth removes any sharp edges that may make it difficult to chew or carry a bit. If your horse is losing condition, tossing its head, carrying its head oddly, is a sloppy eater or has bad breath it may need a dental check up. When was the last time your horse's teeth were checked by a professional?
Saturday November 21, 2009
I remember watching the Disney movie, Justin Morgan Had a Horse and deciding I must have a Morgan horse.
Photo 2005 K. BlocksdorfMy mother told me I could have one if I saved up $200 ( a lot of money way back then). I saved birthday money, collected bottles for exchange and searched the couch cushions until my back account reached the right amount. My mother then found a palomino Welsh pony mare in foal to a Morgan stallion. I didn't quite get a Morgan horse, but a Morgan-Welsh cross.
Of course, it helped that my mother's passion was horses and we lived on a farm already. There was no question of whether I was ready for a horse or not. This pony was in fact my third or fourth. But not every child who wants a horse can get one so easily. What do you do when your child is begging for a horse or pony? Read Should You Buy Your Child a Horse or Pony for tips that may help you make the right decisions.
More About Buying Kid's Ponies