Helping The Horse ACHIEVE BALANCE
Dr. Raquel Butler
BVSc, G.Dip ABM, GCLTHE, EMRT, CCMRT, Integrated Veterinary Therapeutics Equine Science Lecturer at Charles Sturt University Contributions from
Catherine McDowell – Herbalist
When was the last time you stood back and observed your horses posture? It is important and valuable to do this as an independent observer rather than with the emotional attachment of an owner. A balanced body will create a balanced, relaxed and trainable mind.
Recognising when a horse is holding tension will aid in your understanding of their emotional state. If your horse is tight in his back with his head raised, ready to spook, to bolt and reactive, he is probably in a state of tension and high emotions. If his head is neutral, back soft, limbs in a balanced position, he is more likely to be calm with the ability to observe rather than react. It is amazing to observe the transformation in a Biomechanical Medicine session of a pony with a history of flipping over in response to minimal pressure due to the extreme tension in the body. Within one session the pony was able to trot with the head and neck stretching forward and start to respond to the handlers guidance with lightness. This is the power of relaxation or tension in the body. I don’t know about you, but when I have pain and stiffness I am generally a bit grumpy. When a balance of relaxation and fascial freedom is achieved in a horses body they become more amenable, more able to focus and respond in an appropriate manner without the resistance and tension.
Fully stretched and looking easy Resting a hind limb, greater tension in the face and back
Observing your horse’s posture There are many ways you can observe your horses posture that will improve your relationship with your horse as you pick up small changes before they become big problems. Some questions you can ask next time you see your horse. How does your horse urinate? Do they rest a limb? Are they extremely stretched out or very focused? Does their tail lift or are they urinating on their tail. Do they stand stretched ouf for a long time? Does it look comfortable and easy? How does your horse graze? Do they have wide stance with one limb always forward or keep the hind legs in one place and under the body. Do they bend their knees or only graze for short times?
This horse is standing with the fore and hind limbs camped under. The head and neck are raised and there is tension through the face and jaw.
Does he alternate which forelimb is forward or can he can walk and graze easily and stand square? How does your horse stand? Doesn’t rest a particular leg but does rest his hind legs when sleeping, 14 EQUINE NEWS.COM.AU
SPRING 2020
