Muzzle know-how
GRAZING muzzles have been shown to reduce grass intake by 50 to 80%, depending on the individual and the length of the grass. They enable bonded ponies to live together and interact socially, and allow more exercise than that afforded by a restricted grazing area. Not every pony will accept a muzzle, however, or learn how to use it.
Correct fitting and training are important. Use a muzzle with protective padding, ideally, showing the pony he can still eat and drink by pushing grass through the muzzle openings. Ensure there is a gap of 2.5cm between the end of the muzzle and the pony’s teeth, and at least 2-3 fingers’ space around the sides to allow chewing. Do not leave the muzzle on for more than 10 to 12 hours at a time and check the pony regularly for rubbed areas or tooth wear.
A muzzle cannot be combined with free grazing.
Once it is removed, it is critically important the pony is not returned to the paddock – a hungry pony will then binge eat and may eat half his daily grass intake in as little as three hours. The time without the muzzle should instead be spent in a yard or bare paddock, where some hay or straw can be fed.
If keeping the muzzle in place proves difficult, you can try:
● Plaiting the forelock with the top of the mane, before feeding the muzzle strap through it.
● Fitting a fly mask or safety headcollar over the muzzle.
● Securing the Velcro attachments with rubber bands.
● Using electric fencing to keep the pony away from fixed obstacles that he might use to help pull the muzzle off.