Horses, vitals & restraints

What carbohydrate is found in feeds like hay and grasses?

The carbohydrate found in feeds like hay and grasses is primarily cellulose, which is part of the fiber that provides energy and supports digestive health in horses.

What kinds of foods make up high energy feeds?

High energy feeds typically include grains like oats, barley, and corn, along with supplements that are rich in fats, such as vegetable oils.

Colt

A young male horse, usually less than three years old, that has not been gelded.

filly

A young female horse, usually less than three years old.

mare

An adult female horse, typically over three years old, capable of breeding.

gelding

A male horse that has been castrated, typically to make it more docile and suitable for riding or work.

foal

A young horse of either sex, typically under one year old.

stallion

An adult male horse, typically uncastrated, known for breeding and exhibiting more aggressive behavior.

points (horse)

The specific areas on a horse's body that are used for assessing condition and applying pressure during training or riding.

gait

The manner in which a horse moves, including walk, trot, canter, and gallop.

Chestnut horse

A horse with a reddish-brown coat, often having a lighter or flaxen mane and tail, characterized by its striking appearance.

Bay horse

A horse with a reddish-brown or dark brown coat, typically with a black mane and tail. The bay color is a common coat color in horses.

Palomino horse

A horse with a golden coat and a lighter mane and tail, known for its striking color and versatility.

buckskin horse

A horse with a tan or golden coat, usually accompanied by black points on the mane, tail, and lower legs. Buckskin horses are often admired for their unique coloration.

Dun horse

A horse with a yellowish or sandy coat, typically featuring a dorsal stripe and darker markings on the legs and mane. Dun horses are recognized for their distinctive color patterns.

Draft horse

A large horse breed used primarily for heavy work and pulling, characterized by a strong build and calm temperament.

Light breed

A category of horse breeds that are generally tall and lightweight, known for their speed and agility, often used for riding and various equestrian disciplines.

Horses ears pinned back

is a sign of irritation or aggression, indicating that the horse is feeling threatened or annoyed.

Horses ears perked up

is a sign of alertness and curiosity, indicating that the horse is engaged with its surroundings and paying attention.

Horses ears droopy

is a sign of relaxation or fatigue, indicating that the horse is calm and comfortable, possibly in a resting state.

How to approach a horse

Approaching a horse should be done calmly and from the side to avoid startling it. Speak softly and let the horse see your presence before making contact.

How to put a halter on a horse

Start by positioning the halter at the horse's nose, then bring the crown piece over its ears and fasten the buckle under the chin, ensuring a snug fit.

How to walk with a lead rope

To walk with a lead rope, hold it with one hand while keeping the other hand close to the horse's halter for guidance. Maintain a relaxed posture and walk beside the horse, encouraging it to follow you.

Metal curry

A grooming tool used to remove dirt, mud, and loose hair from a horse's coat, typically made of rubber or metal with short, rounded teeth.

rubber curry

A grooming tool similar to a metal curry, but typically softer and made of rubber, used for loosening dirt and debris from a horse's coat.

hard brush

A grooming tool with stiff bristles used to remove dust, dirt, and loose hair from a horse's coat, promoting a healthy shine.

soft brush

A grooming tool with softer bristles used to remove fine dust and debris, ideal for sensitive areas of a horse's coat while providing a gentle finish.

hoof pick

A tool used to remove dirt, stones, and debris from a horse's hooves, helping to maintain hoof health and prevent infections.

normal temperature for horses

The average normal temperature for horses is between 99°F and 101.5°F (37.2°C to 38.6°C), indicating proper health and metabolic function.

A high temperature on a horse can indicate…

fever or underlying illness that requires further investigation and monitoring.

High temperature on a horse that does not involve an illness

can be due to environmental factors like hot weather or intense exercise, possibly leading to heat stress.

normal pulse rate for horse

40-50 bpm

normal respiratory rate for horse

8-15 breaths per minute

Founder/laminitis 

a painful condition in horses that affects the hooves, often caused by factors like overfeeding or metabolic disorders.

colic

a general term for abdominal pain in horses, which can be caused by various issues such as dietary changes, intestinal blockages, or gas buildup.

Arabian horse

a distinct breed known for its endurance, speed, and versatility, originating from the Arabian Peninsula.

Thoroughbreds

are a breed recognized for their speed and agility, primarily used in horse racing and other competitive equestrian sports.

quarter horses

a breed known for their sprinting speed and agility, particularly in short-distance events. They are versatile and excel in various disciplines such as rodeo and western riding.

draft horses

a breed characterized by their large size and strength, commonly used for heavy work like pulling and farm labor.

how to restrain a rabbit

A method that involves using gentle but firm techniques, such as a towel or specific carriers, to safely hold a rabbit for health checks or grooming.

how to restrain a chicken

A method that includes holding the chicken securely while minimizing stress, often using a proper grip or confinement in a crate to safely manage the bird for examination or transport.

How to restrain a pig

A technique that involves using a combination of physical restraint and handling skills, such as using a hog snare or proper positioning, to safely manage a pig for veterinary care or transport.

How to restrain a goat

A method that utilizes appropriate holding techniques, such as a collar or halter, along with gentle restraint to safely manage a goat during veterinary examinations or routine care.

How to restrain a sheep

A technique that involves using a halter or harness, along with calm handling, to secure a sheep effectively for veterinary checks or transport.

normal temperature for goats

The normal temperature for goats typically ranges from 101.5°F to 103.5°F (38.6°C to 39.7°C), indicating their health status.

normal pulse rate for goats

70-80 bpm

normal respiratory rate for goats

12-24 bpm

normal temperature for calves

101-103 degrees

normal pulse rate for calves

100-140 bpm

normal respiratory rate for calves

30-60 bpm

Normal temperature for adult cows

100-102 degrees

normal pulse rate for adult cows

48-84 bpm

Normal respiratory rate for adult cows

26-50 bpm