06/06/2023
The ground is sooooo hard already 😩
With a reported bumper year for grass growth, concussion through the feet will add to the risk of laminitis.
We are so lucky to have our arena, where the horses can work properly and safely 🌸
Look after your horses, prevention is better than cure 💞
☀️💥Please beware of the hard ground... think and plan wherever you can…💥☀️
We always see an increase in lameness’s when the land is hard and dry, and with no rainfall forecast in the coming weeks we urge you to be mindful.
Many lameness’s are associated with increased concussion or slipping due to the hard conditions. As we move to the season where many outdoor competitions are being held on grass, think about how hard the ground is - not just at the show but in your horse / pony’s paddock too.
If they are constantly moving, playing, being ridden, jumping on hard ground, particularly with shoes on, then they will be at high risk of concussion injuries.
Common injuries associated with hard ground:
• Concussion and jarring
• Bruised soles
• Splints
• Tendon injuries
• Laminitis - as a result of concussion, which traumatises the sensitive laminae in the foot.
• Sore shins - the signs are swelling to the front of the cannon bone, which may lead to fractures within the bone if the horse is not rested
We can look out for early signs that a horse may be jarring up. They may not be obviously lame yet, but it is time to act and rest:
• Shortening of the stride: a horse may lose the swing and spring in its step as it tries to minimise jarring when its feet hit the ground
• Tension: muscles change their function on hard ground to help reduce concussion. This means they reduce their ability to work independently and compromise overall performance
• Refusing: they may be reluctant to land after a fence, so may start stopping
• Flattening and rushing over a fence: to minimise concussion on landing the horse adjusts its technique to prevent it landing so hard
How can you reduce the risk?
• Good conformation in the first instance
• They must be FIT for the work being asked of them
• Well shod with correct foot balance
• Not carrying excess weight
• Aim to do all ridden preparation including warm ups, on surfaced arenas if this is possible.
• Discuss the pros and cons of anti-concussive pads with your vet or farrier.
Many venues make a real effort to improve the ground, but there is a limit to what can be done in dry conditions. If it feels like concrete underfoot and you can save your horse for another day, you probably should.
