Traveling - boots or bandages?
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NHgirl
19 Oct 2009 19:55
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I am soon going on a beach ride, and the journey will be one and a half hours long. I'm not sure whether I should buy boots or bandages or just go without anything on his legs. He gets agitated by having brushing boots on his hind legs, so i don't want to waste money on something that he will hate. please help!
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Horse Hero Guru
19 Oct 2009 21:11
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I am pleased to hear that you are going to get your beach ride. I am sure that you will have a great time.
The decision about what leg protection to use depends on your horse and how he is being travelled. Most people like to put on protection for their horse’s legs because he may knock his legs while standing up in a moving trailer or lorry. This will obviously be less likely if the vehicle is moving steadily with no corners or stops and starts, but it is usually sensible to provide protection.
If you are not used to applying bandages then I would recommend that you use boots. There are plenty of good ones on the market that provide excellent protection and are easy and quick to put on properly. It might also be a good idea to fit overreach boots as well.
You say that your horse does not like boots on his back legs, so this is something he will have to learn. Put the boots on several times before you travel and lead him around in them. Many horses will take a few funny steps at first as the design of the boots – up over the knees/hocks and down over the fetlock to the pastern or below make them feel funny. They soon settle though. If he tries to kick out with them on then make sure that they are not going to come off and leave him to settle and get used to them.
Good luck – and I hope that you have a wonderful day
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JowAngel
20 Oct 2009 16:35
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I also like the fitted boots better than bandages myself. However, I did have one time when the boots came off during the ride and got all trampled. Also creating a safety hazard I'm sure. So do make sure these boots fit properly before the trailer ride. Maybe leave them on in the stall for a bit and see if they slip around at all. Plus, this will get him used to them.
Have a great time!
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NHgirl
05 Nov 2009 20:47
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thanks for the suggestions, in the end I found out the horse's owners had some lightweight travel wraps that he doesn't mind wearing. The beach was amazing! He thought the foam of the waves was about to eat him, so it was an interesting introduction! Also thanks HorseHero for providing a fun website that I could ask this sort of question and get great advice!
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Horse Hero Guru
05 Nov 2009 21:24
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I'm so glad that you and your horse had a great day - riding on a beach is something everybody ought to do, just because it is so different and so much fun.
When are you planning to go again?
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NHgirl
08 Nov 2009 19:13
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we'll hopefully we will go next summer, and take another friend aswell! I agree, everyone should be able to ride on the beach, it is so breathtaking to just canter for ages along the sand!
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