Body condition influences everything in your horse’s life, from reproductive efficiency, to performance, to good health. By using Body Condition Scoring, you can find out what kind of shape your horse is in, and work to improve the score. Scoring focuses on critical areas of the body, based on palpable fat and visual appearance.Ideal ScoresMost horses, including performance horses and growing horses, should be in a body score of 5-6. For optimum reproductive efficiency, broodmares should be a 5-...

The fetlock is formed where the cannon bone and the long pastern bone meet. The joint includes two sesamoid bones at the back, which the flexor tendons pass over, and is strengthened by ligaments spanning the cannon and pastern bones.When a horse is galloping or jumping the joint almost touches the ground when carrying the horse’s full weight. Routine stress combined with poor conformation and or a lack of fitness can result in fetlock injuries.Before the vet can diagnose a swollen fetlock, it i...

Weanlings require additional support and feeding adjustments as they grow. Here’s what to remember.As summer comes to an end and your foal continues to grow and gain independence, it’s time to think about his nutritional requirements once he’s weaned. This can be a stressful time, both emotionally and nutritionally. Keep these tips in mind to ensure a smooth transition and continued healthy growth through weaning.When to wean“If the weanling horse is one you’ve raised since birth, you have a lot...