Maggie Carty

The primary difference between open-cell and closed-cell foam saddle pads lies in their structural density and performance mechanics. Closed-cell foam is dense and firm, providing excellent stability and moisture resistance but often trapping heat.  Open cell foam (like memory foam) is softer and more breathable, allowing for better contouring, though generic versions can ‘bottom out’ … Read more

Girthiness refers to the behavior exhibited by a horse when the girth or cinch, a device similar to a belt used to hold the saddle in place, is tightened around the horse. The horse may pin its ears, toss its head, paw, fidget, or even kick to communicate its displeasure at having the girth tightened. … Read more

Western saddle pads for short-backed horses must be shorter than standard pads. A shorter pad prevents pressure on the horse’s loins. Choose a pad with a shape that follows the horse’s back. Round or barrel-shaped pads can offer an ideal fit. Ideally, western saddle pads for horses with short backs should be shorter than the … Read more

A horse foams at the mouth when its bit stimulates saliva production. A protein in the saliva, called latherin, helps create this foam. The horse’s chewing motion and jaw movement whip the saliva into a lather. A light, white foam is often a positive sign of a relaxed and accepting horse. When a horse foams … Read more

For anyone who regularly rides horses, observing a horse’s back saturated and steaming from sweat after a ride is not uncommon. Many riders may believe that excessive heat and moisture after a hard ride is relatively harmless, but that isn’t the case. In fact, it can indicate compromised thermoregulation that can cause discomfort and directly … Read more

A roach-backed horse has a distinct upward curve in its spine, primarily affecting the lumbar region and creating a convex top line. This condition, also known as kyphosis, is a defect that can be present at birth or develop later due to an injury or improper training. Proper management often requires special considerations for saddle … Read more

Wobbler syndrome in horses is a neurological condition caused by spinal cord compression in the neck. It leads to incoordination, weakness, and stumbling, especially in the hind limbs. The condition is most common in young, rapidly growing horses and may require surgical or medical treatment, depending on its severity. Aspect Details Definition Wobbler syndrome (cervical … Read more

The main differences between a horse and a donkey are size, build, and behavior. Horses are larger, faster, and more muscular, while donkeys are smaller, with longer ears and stronger hooves. Donkeys are more cautious and hardy, while horses are more agile and social. Comparison Table Between Horses & Donkeys Feature Horse Donkey Size 840–1,200 … Read more

Strip grazing manages horses’ access to pasture. Grazing is a natural behavior for horses, and it positively influences a horse’s mental, physical, and digestive health. Strip-grazed horses are rotated through fresh grass areas by gradually moving a temporary fence. This method aids in weight control, prevents overgrazing, and enhances pasture utilization. Strip grazing is ideal … Read more