TIP CLEARING COBWEBS

To remove cobwebs from inside of my stable and arena I use a swimming pool brush with a telescoping pole, which can be purchased at the larger home improvement stores. Sturdy but not heavy, these brushes have flexible bristles that are soft on the ends but strong enough to knock down bird nests if needed. — Monica Gray, Mountain Home, Idaho your horse on leisurely trail rides or do you have a full slate of clinics or competitions? How your veterinarian will assess your horse’s soundness depends on these goals as well as the resources available. A simple jog down a driveway and some flexion tests may be enough to determine how your horse is doing, or your veterinarian may suggest a more extensive workup with radiographs or other imaging.

Either way, the exam will serve two purposes. First, it will identify any current soundness issues that might need to be managed. For instance, now may be the time to start a joint supplement or inject a problematic joint to keep a horse comfortable as he resumes his regular work schedule.

Second, the exam will provide a baseline for your horse’s soundness in the coming months. Some horses with mild arthritis get more sound as they enter regular work, for example, while other issues may be exacerbated by increased activity. Knowing your horse’s status before he returns to work may be important when diagnosing and managing problems in the coming months.