05/04/2025
Hello 👋
Long time no type, but it has been one amazing summer full of teaching, training and of course, riding.
As the weather cools off, there will be some additional things to look out for when looking after your horses.
Colic can be an issue as the weather cools off, as horses sometimes don't drink as much water as they should. You can monitor your horse's water intake by turning off automatic watering systems temporarily to get a gauge on how much they are consuming. If you are concerned about the hydration of your horse, the "pinch test" can also help. If you think your horse is showing any signs of colic, call your vet asap. Early intervention gives your horse the best chance.
Offer plenty of hay to help your horses hold their weight heading into the cooler months. The grass has turned from yellow to green, however there is only a small window before the green grass turns dormant and stunted during the winter months. Feeding adequate hay also ensures your horse is warm ... the act of fermentation in the hindgut facilitates this extra warmth.
Where I am, this autumn season has seen a higher than normal influx of bott flies. Those pesky yellow eggs that show up on your horse's legs, belly and even mane, are annoying now, but if not dealt with by removal (and disposal of eggs away from where they can be ingested), can lead to major health issues down the track. Once ingested, the eggs hatch and larvae attach themselves to the lining of the stomach, leading to imflamation of the gut and possibly colic.
Worming in late autumn/ early winter (the adult botts die off when the temperature drops) with an ivermectin based wormer, ensures that any bott fly parasites are eliminated.
Hoof care is important, as the temperatures fluctuate. Warmth, with the addition of moisture, can lead to issues such as thrush and abscesses, especially as we head into some muddy conditions.
Be sure to keep a look out for sudden lameness or swelling in lower legs, or heat in hooves. If you suspect an abscess, contact your farrier or vet and they will be able to point you in the right direction.
And lastly, enjoy the cooler, sunny days with your horse handling and grooming, groundwork, riding in the arena or out on the trails. The days may be getting shorter, but remember every time you interact with your horse is an opportunity to train. Quality over quantity wins very time.
I am on the road teaching every weekday. Please contact me if you would like to book a session. I am fully insured, and can help you as a riding coach, groundwork training, pre-starting training, float training, rider confidence support, feet handling / training for the farrier.
I am located in Gippsland and travel to you, depending on location.
~ Sacha
Horsemanship instruction and training on site or at your property. Qualified and fully insured. In-hand and ridden clinics. Guided trail rides in Erica.
