Animal-Eze

27/09/2025

We're in tick season now, so be alert.

28/08/2025

Half Breed saddles are extremely popular. Built on an adaptation of the Western tree, they provide a lot of comfort and security for the rider.
Although they look really easy to fit, the truth is that they can have just as many problems as other designs. This graphic shows some of the main issues that lead to a horse with a sore back or restricted movement.
I’ve written a whole lot more about this in my blog post - link in the comments - When Half Breed Saddles Fit The Rider But Not The Horse

[The attached image is used for illustration only. I am not suggesting that this saddle displays all the problems mentioned.]

Thanks for reading :-)

- Jane

28/08/2025

Saddle fitting is a critical issue.
This page- Equine Healthworks - is well worth following for horse owners.

Half Breed saddles are extremely popular. Built on an adaptation of the Western tree, they provide a lot of comfort and security for the rider.
Although they look really easy to fit, the truth is that they can have just as many problems as other designs. This graphic shows some of the main issues that lead to a horse with a sore back or restricted movement.
I’ve written a whole lot more about this in my blog post - link in the comments - When Half Breed Saddles Fit The Rider But Not The Horse

[The attached image is used for illustration only. I am not suggesting that this saddle displays all the problems mentioned.]

Thanks for reading :-)

- Jane

08/08/2025

G'day good horse people.
Please understand that I make my decisions on whether or not to take on a job based on particular principles that have developed over the 11 years of operating my business.
I base my decisions on experience gained over those years.
In some cases I have learned that I can manage situations I thought too difficult; and also that some situations should be avoided for my physical, personal or business safety.
If I do not feel comfortable with a situation I am asked to enter into, for whatever reason, that is my decision to make and mine alone.
This is not a hobby, it is what keeps the roof over my head, and I have hard and fast rules about how I conduct my business.
So, please do not be offended if I come to the conclusion that I am not able to help you with a particular situation, but understand that my decision is shaped by experience, and I am the only person who can decide what I do or do not do.

Send a message to learn more

21/07/2025

This is so important to remember.
Horses "misbehave" for two main reasons:
Pain
Fear.
If they've been punished for behaviour caused by pain, then they can start objecting due to fear or anticipation of punishment and more pain.
Then we humans think of those behaviours as "vices", and overlook the root cause of the behaviour.
Horses are very stoic, but even the most patient will reach a point where they will resist or object.
The horse is just trying to survive and avoid pain or punishment.
Stop and have a good look at your horse, engage a professional/s to assess and if necessary address your horse's problems.
These can be anything from feet to saddle or tack fit, old or new soft tissue injuries, arthritis or other joint issues, even dental issues or just living with a companion that they don't get along with.
The Masterson Method is a great tool that every horse owner or rider can use to find problem areas and help their horse. Check it out.

11/07/2025

For all those clients to whom I recommend the Masterson Method Bladder Meridian Massage (Search, Response, Stay, Release) technique, this is a great little clip.
It demonstrates very simply the technique itself and some of the responses and releases we look for.
So, don't hesitate to get out there and do something simple and nice for your horses!
It's a great way to bond with a new, nervous or young horse as well. The horse learns that you know how to observe their body language, and how to help them release tension.
It works for your dogs as well. Check out "Beyond Dog Massage", or the Dog link on the Masterson Method home page.

01/07/2025

G'day all, I'm selling my current stock of Scoot Boots.
Rather than hold them in stock and let them age, I'm selling them at discounted prices.
** PLEASE NOTE: PHONE OR TEXT ME ON 0438084902
** I CANNOT DO MESSENGER, AND REPLIES TO COMMENTS ON THIS PLATFORM ARE DIFFICULT.
Regular:
1 x Pr Size 1, One boot has been tried on $200 + Postage
1 x Pr Size 2, $250 + Postage
2 x Pr Size 5, for the larger horse, $250 each pair + Postage

Slim:
2 x Pr Size 2, $250 each pair + Postage
1 x Pr Size 3, $250 + Postage

Enduro (Now called "Adjust"):
1 x Pr Size 2, $290 + Postage
1 x Size 3 (Single Boot), $150 + Postage

Mini:
1 x Pr Size M1, $200 + Postage

Skins (Glue-on)
1 x Pr Size 4, $50 + Postage

If you're within my usual working area (Calliope, Gladstone, Rockhampton, Biloela), I can arrange to do a fitting for you as well, cost $70 per horse. No postage if I can deliver them at a fitting or regular trimming or bodywork appointment.

23/06/2025

Regional CQ horse people:
I'm seeking expressions of interest for a one-day or two-day (advanced) owner hoof trimming clinic/s.
Please phone or text on 0438084902 (do not try to use Messenger, I can't reply.)
Likely date/s late September or early to mid-October.
Dates and details of currently arranged Queensland clinics are at the attached Barefoot Blacksmith page.
Also, if you're interested and have a suitable facility to host a clinic, please let me or Barefoot Blacksmith know (see the attached Barefoot Blacksmith page for information on what is required to host a clinic.)

"I would like to thank you for a very informative session and would like to say that you made us feel very welcome. I will certainly be recommending your course to anyone thinking of going down this track. Regards, Noelle" "Hi Andrew & Nicki, We would just like to say thank you for a fantastic works...

19/06/2025

Nutrition is a huge part of many situations that cause our horses trouble.
FeedXL can help you find your way through the nutrition minefield"."
It's not just wanting that nice shine for the show ring, but as an Equine Podiotherapist I see too many horses with weakness in their hoofs that may be related to unbalanced or inadequate nutrition.
Here is an easy way to get a grip on your horses' feeding for better nutrition and results.
You can also save money by focusing on the supplements that are actually necessary for your individual horse.
Win, win, win!

11/05/2025

Send a message to learn more

09/05/2025

Goosebumps and a lump in my throat!
You never lose the thrill of that midnight start.
Even if you're the last horse and rider out the gate, you're at the start of an unrepeatable adventure.
"To complete is to wiin!"
It's hard to believe it's 40 years this year since I last rode in a Tom Quilty; it still feels like it was only last year.
O'Malley's Pride and Sharahd Mariner carried me successfully through twice. Huge thanks to them both for the privilege.

23/04/2025

Every time our horses fall, slip in the mud, land badly over a jump, or even trip or make a misstep they can set up tension or spasming in their muscles.
This has an effect on their whole body, not just the area they're holding in tension, due to the myofascial connections throughout the body. Comfort and performance are compromised.
As an owner or manager or groom, there is a lot you can do to help your horses, Masterson Method being probably the simplest technique.
The SRSR - Search, Response, Stay, Release - technique is so easy to use, and can show you where the trouble is to consult your Vet or Chiropractor about, or it can help you to resolve minor issues yourself.
It works for dogs and other animals too!