An Education on the Horse Bit
The "Bit" is a vital piece of equipment in the equine industry. The rider depends on the bit to keep control over his horse in whatever his job is, be it real cowboy work or in the show ring. The horse has to LIKE his bit. Lets go over all the equipment that goes with the bit and the different choices to make on bits.
* Purchase - The purchase is a part of the bit located above the mouthpiece. A shorter purchase will make the bit act quicker in a horse's mouth when pulling the reins by the...
Basic Horse Knowlege
Because we always see pictures of horses just grazing out in the field we assume horses live there alone with little or no attention from humans. Because of their size and strength, horses can be sometimes misunderstood by a lot of people who know nothing about them. Unless you are around horses on a regular basis, you will not know how they act or the safety issues involved with being close to a horse. Lets take a look a some basic horse care.
Communication is very important with any animal....
Breaking Down the Western Saddle
Whether riding for pleasure or competition, there is nothing more important that having a saddle that properly fits both the horse and its rider. We can compare saddles to fitting clothes or most importantly fitting our shoes. If you don't get the right size and shape for your foot, then you will have unnecessary pain while performing your functions of the day. Lets take a look at the saddle and all the various parts that make up its construction to better evaluate fit.
The Tree:
The very...
Choosing a Horse Trailer
If you decided that you need a way to get your horse to the vet or even to horse shows, you will be needing transportation. The best way to transport your horse is with a trailer. Designs and types vary widely because of different needs and pocketbooks. Also, it depends on the type of vehicle that will be pulling the trailer, such as an SUV or truck.
When choosing a horse trailer, it is best to consider your horse and what his or her habits are. There a different enterances on trailers. Some...
Controling Your Horse
Horseback riding is a love of the outdoors. People that love to horseback ride are truly in to nature and the special feeling of riding a horse through trail rides just as they did in the old days. Learning to relax and enjoy your ride only comes with lots of practice on a good horse. Learning to control your horse with ease and comfort is very important. Everyone agrees that galloping or loping your horse is the most fun of all.
While galloping your horse, your body and that of your horse...
Dog Fencing Made Easy
The first thought when looking at building a dog kennel is to go with the traditional chain link and what a pain that is with setting posts and setting up a hard foundation of some kind. It comes in pieces that have to be put together. Then there is the huge role of chain link to attach to the posts, although sometimes you can find the chainlink in sections. Modern technology has made things so much more simple than that of the older chain-link fences. Not only is this kennel easier to assemble...
Dogs and Aggression Biting
Some people think if a dog bites one time, that it will bite again and again. This is not necessarily true. Everything depends on the situation and why the dog bit. If your dog bites someone, it should let the owner that his dog is in need of immediate training modification to reduce his aggressive tendencies. In order to do that, you must first find out the reason the dog bit.
Biting is a natural defense mechanism with dogs. They bite for obvious reason such as hunting and killing their...
Exercise And Your Dog
Are you worried that your dog doesn't get enough exercise because of a weight problem and does he just sit around all day like a couch potato?
If experts have discovered that exercise is key to human health and wellbeing, it is safe to say that your Dog will benefit from the same research. Physical and mental health is vastly improved in both species when exercise is introduced in to their lives.
A few things that exercise can do for your pet are improve muscle tone, increase bone density,...
Horse Saddle Tack
The Western Saddle is used for "western riding" and is the saddle used on working horses on cattle ranches throughout the United States and especially in the west. The "cowboy" saddles are familiar to rodeo fans and movie goers and to those who have gone on trail rides at guest ranches. The Western Saddle was designed to allow the cowboy comfort and security during long hours of work herding cattle in a time when that was their livelihood.
We give credit to the Spanish vaqueros for the design...
Horse Spurs and Its History
It is thought that the earliest spurs were probably made from bone or wood. Spurs have been used by horsemen and cowboys throughout the ages. In its earliest days the spur and the metal it was made with were a mark of rank. This is where the expression to "earn your spurs" came from. As punishment a knight would have his spurs and sword broken and taken away as part of his disgrace Rowels came along in France or Spain in the 10th Century or so and evolved through the Northern European and...
Horse Tack
If you ride horses, you know that tacking up a horse refers to the equipment worn by a horse to allow us to ride them with more ease. There is a wide range of tack and all has to be fitted to the individual horse. Tacking up requires a certain amount of expertise by the rider in order to make any discomfort for you or or animal minimal.
There are two kinds of horse tack. English and western. It consists of a halter, saddle, saddle pad, stirrup, bridle, girth (for English) / Cinches (for...
Horse Training
In order to get to the fun part of owning a horse, one that you can take with you on trail rides or let your friends ride, you must first put in the training necessary to make him calm and agreeable in any situation. Its always great to find an older horse that is already "kid safe" but in the event you can't find or afford such a horse there are some things you can do to train your horse for trail or competition.
A "spooky" horse is no fun at all to ride as you are constantly worried that he...
Housetraining Your Yorkshire Terrier
First and foremost, you must have a routine for your Terrier to follow daily. To be really successful in housetraining, you must have a schedule to take your terrier outside to potty and, over weeks to a few months, it becomes ingrained in their every day life.
Most people want to go to the bathroom right after they wake up. Your Yorkie is no different and this is where the routine begins. As soon as you are up in the morning, take him outside for his first potty trip of the day. He has been...
Instincts and Traits in Dogs
Domestication of canines was accomplished by humans thousands of years ago. Many think that the world's first dogs were tamed wolves, as dogs share many biological traits with wolves. First of all they look very much alike and their actions are similar. They both have highly developed sense of smell and hearing.
Dogs are extremely loyal and dependent on their masters. They have a place in human society to which few other species can hold a candle. The only reward for dogs in many cases is a...
Kinsky Horses
The Kinsky horse legend originated in Bohemia over one-thousand years ago. A hunting party led by a princess was attacked by wolves. One man stood his ground against the wolves and drove them off killing three of of the villians. For the young mans courage, the King knighted the Kinsky man and gave him a coat of arms featuring the three wolves' teeth as a reminder of his brave act. This Kinsky came to raise and name the famous Kinsky line of horses.
There have been many stories of the brave...
Learn to Trailer Your Horse
Moving your horse from one place to another is a must whether you show your horse or not. Trips to the veterinarian hospital or to a park are common place. Loading your horse can be a stressful time for the horse as well as the owner if the horse hasn't been taught correctly from the start. Any mishaps can scar the horse for life and it will be very difficult to change the unpleasant memory. It is important to remain calm and to praise the horse whenever possible, making entering the trailer a...
Paint Horse Breed
The American paint horse is a stock-type horse that is intelligent and is built for agility and speed and has a "willing" attitude. He is ideal for many different riding needs such as ranch work, showing, pleasure riding, rodeo events and they are wonderful horses for children and beginning riders.
In order for a horse to be registered as a paint he must fit in to three catagories. Tobiano, Overo or Tovero paints.
The Tobiano pattern has an oval or round white spot that extends down the neck...
Pet Clothes Are Not Just For Looks
All thru history Dogs, Cats and pets in general have proven valuable additions to the families of millions of people. Even Kings and Queens have seen the value of a faithful companion to ease the tensions of everyday life at court. Pets have proven their loyalty and devotion to their masters time and time again are a part of many memories we take with us all our lives. This is why pet owners take every precaution to make sure their pets are taken care of properly. Cothing for pets may seem...
Pet Diseases and Diet
If you are feeding your dog store bought food that is produced by the large manufacturing companies, your pet may face some health problems. Some large manufacturers are using products in their food that has been removed from human foods. Find out what you are feeding your dog or cat.
Like most of the population, you would think that dog and cat food manufacturers are paying close attention to a healthy formula for your pets' good health and wellbeing. It may surprise you to know that not all...
Places to Go Western Riding
Horseback riding vactions are a time of the year that horse lovers look forward to, whether its with the whole family with kids included or just the two of you. Here we will talk about a few vacation spots to take your horses to, or if thats not possible rent the horse, saddle and tack right there. Either way you will have a great western riding experience.
Walden Creek Stables in the Smokey Mountains of East Tennessee is our first stop. This riding stable has five hundred acres with...
Secrets to Caring For a Mastif
If you are reading this article, then Mastiffs at least get your curiosity going. As you are doing your research, you may be asking yourself if you are really ready for a Mastiff. Mastiff's, while loving and loyal, pose some unique challenges for the first time owners. Any dog, regardless of the breed, takes time, patience, love and training. Because of the Mastiffs massive size, they require extra time and patience when trying to train. They can weigh anywhere from 100 to 200 pounds. That's...
Sharing Meals With Your Dog
Sometimes we slip and share some of our dinner with our dogs on purpose; other times by accident. Some food we eat can be good and nutritious for dogs, but other food can be very dangerous. It's very important to learn and understand what your dog should and should not eat. Below we have made a list of some common foods that are good for dogs and some that are dangerous for dogs. This is not meant to be a comprehensive list. You should always consult your veterinarian prior to feeding your dog...
Step by Step Saddle Fit
Many people have asked me how to physically tack up their horses and what to check to make sure they have a near perfect fit. Here are four points to watch as you are saddling your horse to make sure everything is as it should be for horse and for the rider.
1. You must have the horse standing on level ground to begin with. Place the saddle on its back up at the withers and then slide it back in to place. You must consider this step very important, as some problems are not because of a bad...
Taking Care of Your Horses Hooves
Your horses hooves are extremely important in the way of caring for your horses health. It is best to have them trimmed and shod every six to eight weeks. Usually, the ferrier puts you on his schedule for six weeks out unless something comes up to put it off a week or so. You must also pick your horses feet before and after riding him. Pick up his foot and working from heel to toe, take your hoof pick and clean out the dirt and debris from the hoof and shoe. Dirt being left in the hoof can...
The Barrel Racing Saddle
Beginning a career in barrel racing is a great challenge for young as well as older horse riders. Getting the right saddle and tack is just the first step. As with all saddles, finding a good balance between quality, price and style requires research. Here we will look at the requirments that a barrel racer and his horse must have in order to compete with the professionals of today's rodeo.
A barrell racing saddle is distinguished for the most part by it's size and weight. It is built for...
The Manufactured Production Saddle
I get questions all the time on whether one should just go to a saddle store and buy "ready-made" saddle or if one should go to the added expense of having a custom saddle made just for their specific measurements and tastes. There is no real answer to that question. We can however give you a guide on the manufactured saddle and you can choose for yourself.
A manufactured saddle is machine-made in an assembly-line process with each worker down the line responsible for his part or parts of the...
The Rigging of the Western Saddle
Like so many other things, the rigging of a saddle is where it is today through evolution. The cowboy had a "working" saddle that did a little of everything on the ranch such as gathering cattle, rescuing cattle, breaking horses, etc. Different saddle types require different "rigging" for each specific use. The term "rigging" is used to refer to how the cinch strap attaches to the saddle to hold the saddle in place. The rigging hardware can be done with several different options. If you're...
The Workings Of The Reining Saddle
The reining event at horseshow's around the country has become a virtual rising star in the horse industry. The reining saddle is designed to optimize the horse's balance, agility and freedom of movement. Reining is an event where winning a single championship at a national competition can make a horse and trainer the buzz of the entire industry.
Reining is a judged event that is designed to show the athletic ability of a well bred ranch horse. The rider and horse must run several patterns...
Urinary Tract Infections And Your Pet
Dogs and Cats get Urinary Tract infections too. In fact it is very common for your pets to get an infection. Surveys show that one in seven animals brought in to the veterinarian's office is because of this illness. The infection is more common in cats and dogs that have an improper diet with a low resistance, although it can happen even if these aren't factors for your pet.
Some of the symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection is difficulty in urination, bloody urine, Urine with extremely foul...
Vaccinating Your Pet
There are different theories and opinions on how often and the actual necessity of giving domestic dogs vaccinations. It is the responsibility of the pet owner to make sure these vaccinations are given to their puppies and adult dogs if necessary. Vaccinations help to improve the resistance of the animal against many common diseases among dogs. It is much better to prevent heart worms and other major problems so that down the road you don't have serious health issues that will cost you...
Western Chaps and Their History
In order to fully understand all the terminology and styles the western Chap represents, you must first study the history behind them. There are names for the cut and style of chaps according to the usage and the time period you are talking about.
The first type of Chaperajos were the Armas. Chaperajos (leg of armor or later meant to be leather britches) were invented by the Spanish who settled Mexico. You must picture two large slabs of leather much like a flat pair of batwings tied to the...
Western Saddle Evolution
One usually thinks of the western saddle as an American style of horse riding, but in fact it's origins can be traced back to the Moorish horsemen and warriors of the Dark Ages. When the Moors invaded Spain in the 700's, they brought with them their unique style of horseback riding and tack. Their saddles were designed for battle with longer stirrups to accommodate their armor and high cantles which provided them security in the saddle and protection from their enemies. So it was mostly Knights...
What to Do About a Barking Dog
There are a few ways you can deal with a noisy whining dog. Bark collars for one. Doing nothing at all is one of the ways that is never an option for most people. Two, you can correct your dog whenever he goes in to his noise marathon, and sneak around waiting for the next time to surprise him to correct him again. Yelling and screaming NO is an option, but will never work in the long run. There are "bark collars" you can buy that could do the trick, but lets focus on training first.
A...
Why Should You Buy a Dog Kennel
Dogs by nature are animals that get a safe feeling in a den, much like their cousins the wolves. If you can introduce your dog to the plastic or wire kennel correctly, it provides a feeling of security and becomes a refuge. Many times your dog will be in need of some peace and quiet, or to just get away from the busy activities in your home.
For this reason, kennels can be a great tool for house training. An appropriately-sized kennel will be a huge aid toward this effort as usually a puppy...
Wire Cages or Plastic Crates
There are a wide variety of dog and cat crates available in the markets today. The two that people have heard of the most are the wire cages and the plastic crates. Lets take a look at each and see which one is best for your particular pets needs.
Many wire cages are collapsible, fold and carry styles, making them much easier to store and transport. Some wire cages come with removable divider panels that can be expanded to allow your pet to grow. Start out small and then simply move the panels...
Youth Horseback Riding
Children have a love of animals almost as soon as they are old enough to know what they are. Some have an innate love of horses specifically. The key to keep young riders interested is to not get too structured in the beginning with their lessons. Teach them the basics when they are old enough to physically handle an animal as large as a horse. Usually under six years of age, children are not strong enough to handle anything but the most safe and older "kid horse". Make your first lessons fun...
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