Animal-Eze

21/07/2025

This is so important to remember.
Horses "misbehave" for two main reasons:
Pain
Fear.
If they've been punished for behaviour caused by pain, then they can start objecting due to fear or anticipation of punishment and more pain.
Then we humans think of those behaviours as "vices", and overlook the root cause of the behaviour.
Horses are very stoic, but even the most patient will reach a point where they will resist or object.
The horse is just trying to survive and avoid pain or punishment.
Stop and have a good look at your horse, engage a professional/s to assess and if necessary address your horse's problems.
These can be anything from feet to saddle or tack fit, old or new soft tissue injuries, arthritis or other joint issues, even dental issues or just living with a companion that they don't get along with.
The Masterson Method is a great tool that every horse owner or rider can use to find problem areas and help their horse. Check it out.

11/07/2025

For all those clients to whom I recommend the Masterson Method Bladder Meridian Massage (Search, Response, Stay, Release) technique, this is a great little clip.
It demonstrates very simply the technique itself and some of the responses and releases we look for.
So, don't hesitate to get out there and do something simple and nice for your horses!
It's a great way to bond with a new, nervous or young horse as well. The horse learns that you know how to observe their body language, and how to help them release tension.
It works for your dogs as well. Check out "Beyond Dog Massage", or the Dog link on the Masterson Method home page.

01/07/2025

G'day all, I'm selling my current stock of Scoot Boots.
Rather than hold them in stock and let them age, I'm selling them at discounted prices.
** PLEASE NOTE: PHONE OR TEXT ME ON 0438084902
** I CANNOT DO MESSENGER, AND REPLIES TO COMMENTS ON THIS PLATFORM ARE DIFFICULT.
Regular:
1 x Pr Size 1, One boot has been tried on $200 + Postage
1 x Pr Size 2, $250 + Postage
2 x Pr Size 5, for the larger horse, $250 each pair + Postage

Slim:
2 x Pr Size 2, $250 each pair + Postage
1 x Pr Size 3, $250 + Postage

Enduro (Now called "Adjust"):
1 x Pr Size 2, $290 + Postage
1 x Size 3 (Single Boot), $150 + Postage

Mini:
1 x Pr Size M1, $200 + Postage

Skins (Glue-on)
1 x Pr Size 4, $50 + Postage

If you're within my usual working area (Calliope, Gladstone, Rockhampton, Biloela), I can arrange to do a fitting for you as well, cost $70 per horse. No postage if I can deliver them at a fitting or regular trimming or bodywork appointment.

23/06/2025

Regional CQ horse people:
I'm seeking expressions of interest for a one-day or two-day (advanced) owner hoof trimming clinic/s.
Please phone or text on 0438084902 (do not try to use Messenger, I can't reply.)
Likely date/s late September or early to mid-October.
Dates and details of currently arranged Queensland clinics are at the attached Barefoot Blacksmith page.
Also, if you're interested and have a suitable facility to host a clinic, please let me or Barefoot Blacksmith know (see the attached Barefoot Blacksmith page for information on what is required to host a clinic.)

"I would like to thank you for a very informative session and would like to say that you made us feel very welcome. I will certainly be recommending your course to anyone thinking of going down this track. Regards, Noelle" "Hi Andrew & Nicki, We would just like to say thank you for a fantastic works...

19/06/2025

Nutrition is a huge part of many situations that cause our horses trouble.
FeedXL can help you find your way through the nutrition minefield"."
It's not just wanting that nice shine for the show ring, but as an Equine Podiotherapist I see too many horses with weakness in their hoofs that may be related to unbalanced or inadequate nutrition.
Here is an easy way to get a grip on your horses' feeding for better nutrition and results.
You can also save money by focusing on the supplements that are actually necessary for your individual horse.
Win, win, win!

11/05/2025

Send a message to learn more

09/05/2025

Goosebumps and a lump in my throat!
You never lose the thrill of that midnight start.
Even if you're the last horse and rider out the gate, you're at the start of an unrepeatable adventure.
"To complete is to wiin!"
It's hard to believe it's 40 years this year since I last rode in a Tom Quilty; it still feels like it was only last year.
O'Malley's Pride and Sharahd Mariner carried me successfully through twice. Huge thanks to them both for the privilege.

23/04/2025

Every time our horses fall, slip in the mud, land badly over a jump, or even trip or make a misstep they can set up tension or spasming in their muscles.
This has an effect on their whole body, not just the area they're holding in tension, due to the myofascial connections throughout the body. Comfort and performance are compromised.
As an owner or manager or groom, there is a lot you can do to help your horses, Masterson Method being probably the simplest technique.
The SRSR - Search, Response, Stay, Release - technique is so easy to use, and can show you where the trouble is to consult your Vet or Chiropractor about, or it can help you to resolve minor issues yourself.
It works for dogs and other animals too!

29/03/2025

The floods that are sweeping through the west are taking a huge toll on property, infrastructure, livestock and morale.
For those affected by the western Queensland floods, or if you know families and ag businesses that have been affected, there are options for assistance.
Rural Aid is one of those options.

🚨 Severe record-breaking floods are devastating Western Queensland, with entire towns submerged and hundreds of farmers and thousands of livestock impacted. We know the road to recovery will be long and challenging with severe infrastructure damage, large livestock losses and the mental toll an event like this has. Rural Aid will be there to provide practical support for farms to recover.

Do you know someone who needs a hand? Help them to register now.
If you know a farmer who could use a helping hand —whether they’re a friend, family member, or neighbour —encourage them to register with Rural Aid.
Register today https://faa.ruralaid.org.au/

🤝 This is when it is critical to stand with our Mates in the Bush. There are farmers all over Australia affected by disasters and you can make a difference. You can be part of the recovery effort. Donate today to provide essential relief, including hay, financial assistance, and counselling support. Every contribution helps farmers and families rebuild, restore hope, and renew strength in the bush.
Donate today at ruralaid.org.au/donate

📢 Share this post to spread awareness. Our farmers and rural communities need us now more than ever. 💚


Read more:
https://www.queenslandcountrylife.com.au/story/8927225/western-queensland-floods-emergency-declared-amid-rising-waters/

Photo credit: Anne Marie Photography

12/03/2025

I can't wait for the release of these, new soon from EasyCare!
Protection that is but isn't a shoe or a boot, but a working combination of both.
Garrett Ford is always working on something new, something better for our horses.
Check out the Australian distributor at Easycare Downunder for information on hoof boots, synthetic shoes and Aussie prices.

Send a message to learn more

05/03/2025

Some good advice about coping with flood conditions for horse owners (and for those with other animals too) from a Vet who's seen it all before.
As he says, plan ahead, listen to good advice, take sensible action, and keep your cool.

23/02/2025