Learn how to check your horse’s vital signs and make sure he’s healthy.

A normal temperature for a horse is between 99.5 and 101.5 F.

Here’s how to check your horse’s temperature:

• Lubricate the thermometer with petroleum jelly.
• Attach a string to the end of your thermometer if it should fall into your horse’s bedding.
• Tie a clothespin to the other end of the string so you can attach it to your horse’s tail while you’re taking his temperature.
• Approach the horse from the side, and do not stand directly behind him.
• Raise your horse’s tail and insert the thermometer into his rectum.
• Wait at least 1 minute, then read the thermometer. Read the rest of this entry »

Position your western saddle correctly for a great ride and a comfortable horse.

Use these tips from AQHA Educational Alliance Partner Certified Horsemanship Association to properly position your western saddle.

Compiled by Hailey Harroun

• Place the pad or blanket high on the withers, then slide it backward onto the withers and back.  If a blanket is used, always place the folded edge toward the horse’s withers.  The front folded edge should align with the middle of the horse’s shoulder.
• Pick up the saddle and bring the right stirrup and cinch over the seat. Holding the gullet in your left hand and the cantle in your right hand, gently place the saddle on the horse’s back.

Read the rest of this entry »

Have a better ride with a more confident horse.

A frightened horse will find it extremely difficult to learn because he is constantly on the defensive and ready to react. He’s also no fun to ride on the trails. His actions are more reactions than responses to the rider’s demands, and they might even be dangerous for himself and his rider.

A frightened horse can learn to accept new things if his teacher gains his trust and respect. A horse that accepts a new situation remains relaxed. If he merely tolerates it, his stress level will always be on the verge of pushing him over the limit, and there will be a constant threat of danger. The horse might even become introverted, and his next reaction could be surprising or dangerous. Read the rest of this entry »

Get on the fast track to American Quarter Horse Racing.

Race conditions dictate the type of horse that can run in a particular race. Common race types include:

• Maiden: A horse of any sex that has never won a race.
• Claiming: The blue-collar level of racing. All the horses in a claiming race are for sale, and licensed people can purchase them through the racing office.
• Handicap: Horses are given different weights to carry based on ability. A horse that has a better race record is given a handicap (more weight) to even the playing field.
• Allowance: Traditionally for horses beyond the claiming ranks. These races give specific criteria the horse must meet to be able to race, such as “3-year-olds and upward, which have never won two races.”
• Stakes: A race for the best of the best. These high-prestige races have large purses attached to them.
• Futurity: A stakes race for 2-year-olds only.
• Derby: A stakes race for 3-year-olds only. Read the rest of this entry »