Category: For Horses

Posted on by equigroomerllc

Have you just adopted a pet? How do you plan to cover their medical needs? Your new pet needs pet insurance to cover their medical expenses, especially in the case of an emergency!

Courtesy: Gerd Altmann / Pixabay

Good insurance is for protecting:

  • Your pet’s health and
  • Your finances.

Unfortunately, many pet parents don’t know where to begin. For example:

  • Where do you buy your pet’s insurance?
  • What does pet insurance entail and cover?
  • What is pet insurance used for?

Let’s look at each one of the questions below.

Pets and Medical
Courtesy: Mohamed_hassan / Pixabay

1. Pet Insurance: Find a Good Company

  • First, read reviews of pet insurance companies.
  • Know your options and which companies offer what you’re looking for. The great thing about pet insurance is that it’s not limited to a network. This means you can buy insurance online and use it in Maine, New York, California or Alaska. It does not rely on networks and accreditations.
  • Also, confirm the company has a license to operate.
  • In addition, you’ll also want to check for any certifications and/or permits required in your home state. Insurance agents will gladly provide you with the information you request if there’s nothing to hide. If they do not, look at another insurance company.
Courtesy: TeeFarm / Pixabay

2. Check the Coverage Carefully

What does pet insurance cover? Ensure you will be reimbursed for your pets’ medical expenses since veterinary bills can be as high as tens of thousands of dollars! Understand if there are any restrictions based on age, breed or pre-existing conditions.

Note: not all insurance coverages are the same, so check potential coverages carefully!

The services insurance companies for pets will typically reimburse include:

  • Unexpected injuries and accidents.
  • Surgery.
  • Medication.
  • Unexpected illnesses.
  • Tests and diagnostics.
  • Emergency care.
  • Exam fees.

Again, not all insurance policies are the same or offer the same coverage. Do your due diligence!

Courtesy: Mbfrye / Pixabay

3. Understand the Reimbursement Process

Most pet insurance works through a reimbursement process. This means you will need to pay the veterinary and medical bills out-of-pocket before filing a claim to your insurance company for reimbursement. Thoroughly understand the insurance company’s reimbursement process before signing on the dotted line. Understanding all the requirements, timeframes, restrictions and limitations of your pet’s insurance coverage will help prevent your claim from being denied for reimbursement.

4. Premiums: Understand Exactly What You’re Getting

The average cost for animal insurance is between $30 and $50 a month for decent coverage. If you want better coverage for terminal illnesses, expect to pay $100 a month. Some pet insurance companies will go as low as $10 monthly for the most basic coverage but do not expect to get reimbursed for major surgical procedures. A general rule of thumb: the higher your monthly premium, the more the policy will cover for your pet.

5. Consider a Pet Wellness Plan

Some insurance companies offer wellness plans as add-ons. A pet wellness plan will cover most routine veterinary services such as neutering, vaccinations, boosters, and screening tests. It is a form of protection, too, because it means diagnosing common diseases earlier, so they don’t become problems in the future. Animal insurance does not automatically include wellness plans, so again, understand your policy’s coverages.

Courtesy: Markus Spiske / Pixabay

The Takeaway

Getting insurance for your pet(s) is part of your responsibility as a pet owner. Your pet is depending on you to provide for their needs. The best time to get pet insurance is right after adopting the pet. When choosing what insurance to get, always consider your budget and the policy’s range of coverage. While cheap insurance sounds practical, you might want to get somewhere near the average, so it covers more services.

Posted on by equigroomerllc

The surest way to tell spring has sprung is by the amount of horsehair circulating through the barn!

But horse spring shedding can also tell you about their health.

If you missed our earlier blog,
“Your Horse’s Spring Shedding: What you Need to Know,”
click here to read it now.

According to veterinarian Carol Shwetz, “the shedding of a horse’s winter coat is a complex physiological process that can reveal information about the horse’s general health.” In other words, horse spring shedding can also shed a light on certain equine health conditions.

What can you learn through your horse’s shedding in the springtime?

Horse Spring Shedding: A Quick Review

Woman brushing a gray and white horse with an EquiGroomer Shedding Tool
Courtesy: EquiGroomer.com
  • Spring shedding is triggered by the increasing hours of daylight with the spring solstice (not warmer weather). The increase of daylight hours causes the production of hormones triggering spring shedding and new hair growth.
  • The shedding period typically occurs over 6-8 weeks.
  • Regular grooming, brushing and exercise will expedite the shedding process. (Thought to be due to increased blood flow to the skin and the stimulation of hair follicles.)
  • Shedding patterns usually remain consistent year-to-year including:
    • The rate of shedding; and
    • The order of shedding.
The EquiGroomer Equine Tack Shop Kit
Courtesy: EquiGroomer

Use our 20-Piece Equine Tack Shop Start Kit to make spring grooming easier, faster and more comfortable for your horse!

Next, let’s take a closer look at the specific equine health issues that may be revealed by spring shedding.

Horses in stalls with artificial lighting to trigger spring shedding
Courtesy: PublicDomainPictures / Pixabay

Equine Spring Shedding & Potential Health Issues

Itchiness or Patchy Shedding

If the shedding horse is displaying unusual itching (known as pruritus) along with patchy shedding, this may be due to external parasites like lice or ticks that chew and/or bite the horse. Reach out to your regular veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible.

Spring Shedding that is Later than Normal

Shedding that is later than normal could mean:

  • Equine Cushing’s Disease or PPID. Also known as low thyroid function.
  • The need for deworming.
  • Dark barn interiors. Ensure your horse receives a consistent 16 hours of daylight each day (both natural and artificial). NOTE: this is not a “quick fix.” It may take up to 60 days for shedding to begin or increase.

Incomplete or Failure to Properly Shed

If a horse is not shedding normally, it could be an indication of:

Poor horse nutrition can lead to long cat hairs under the chin
Courtesy: Rihaij / Pixabay
  • Equine Cushing’s Disease (especially in older horses).
  • Poor nutrition (along with long “cat” or guard hairs under the belly and chin); or
  • Parasites.

For healthy and effective horse spring shedding, they must have proper nutrition before the shedding season with:

  • Proper vitamins (A and B) and trace minerals (copper and zinc).
  • Enough protein and amino acids.

With the proper nutrition in place, the formulation of the necessary hormones for shedding will be triggered as nature intended.

Your Horse’s Coat Can Tell You More than Just About His Nutrition

If you’ve eliminated potential medical issues that may be affecting your horse’s spring shedding, try increasing your grooming, brushing and exercising to jumpstart your horse’s natural processes.

Shiny Brown Horse Running in a Green Spring Pasture
Courtesy: Alexas Fotos / Pixabay

Learn more about how to protect your horse from spring mud and the abundance of moisture everywhere!

Courtesy: EquiGroomer.com

Spring means shedding and a LOT of it! Maintaining your grooming routine will help ensure proper shedding and new hair growth for your horse!

Stock up on our EquiGroomer tools in your tack room and retail store today!

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604
or click here to send us an email.

Posted on by equigroomerllc

Pet separation anxiety is felt by dogs, cats and even horses!

What is it and how can we help our pets?

Pet Separation Anxiety 101

Brown and white dog sitting and looking anxious
Courtesy: Empiep / Pixabay

In simple terms, pet separation anxiety arises when some pets are left alone for too long. While each pet may exhibit different symptoms, this excessive attachment – to humans or animals – is unhealthy and needs to be addressed for the pet’s overall benefit.

Separation anxiety begins with distress in the absence of those the pet is overly dependent on.

If left ignored, this anxiety may escalate to:

  • Behavioral and destructive issues.
  • Self-injury.
  • Even attempts to escape.

Pet Separation Anxiety: Dogs

Pet separation anxiety is common among dogs
Courtesy: Keithfoust / Pixabay

The common symptoms of K9 separation anxiety include:

  • Barking, howling and whining.
  • Accidents in the house (including coprophagia or eating poop).
  • Chewing, digging and other destructive behaviors.
  • Escape attempts.
  • Pacing.
  • Drooling, panting or excessive salivation.

K9 Separation Anxiety: Why

  • Abandonment.
  • Change of schedule, home or guardian.
  • Sudden loss of a family member.
  • Medical issues.

Canine Separation: Solutions

  • Desensitization: Acclimate them to your departure by leaving for a few minutes and then returning. Over time, slowly increase how long you are gone.
  • Create a routine when you leave; ask your dog to sit, offer a high-value treat and then calmly leave. (Begin this routine during desensitization (above)).
  • Exercise your dog before leaving.
  • Add another dog to the household.
  • Avoid a huge fuss when you leave (or come back home).
  • Leave your dog with a filled/frozen Kong toy to keep him busy and distracted.
  • Homeopathic or pharmaceutical options but always discuss with your vet first!

Pet Separation Anxiety: Cats

Gray and white cat grooming itself
Courtesy: JackieLou KL / Pixabay

Pet separation anxiety may seem more common in canines, but research shows our felines also suffer from pet separation anxiety (despite their aloofness!). In a recent study, 64% of the cats evaluated showed less stress when with their caregivers!

How can you tell if your cat is suffering from separation anxiety? General symptoms include:

  • Crying or yowling.
  • Accidents outside the litter box.
  • Destructive behaviors (more common in male cats)
  • Excessive grooming (more common in female cats)
  • Hyper-attachment with caregiver(s).

Feline Separation Anxiety: Why

  • Being a female cat.
  • Cats only livig indoors.
  • Weaned too early, bottle-raised or orphaned.
Indoor cats can suffer from pet separation anxiety
Courtesy: FPHayes / Pixabay

Cat Separation: Solutions

  • Desensitization: Give attention or affection to reward a calm cat. Ignore attention-seeking behaviors. Reward signs of relaxation:
    • Lying down.
    • Sighing.
    • A loose/still tail.
    • Closed eyes.
  • Before leaving, play with your cat to tire them out.
  • Keep your cat busy in your absence with enrichment activities:
    • Cat TV shows,
    • Puzzle feeders, and
    • Hide-and-seek for treats hidden throughout the house.
  • Maintain a consistent routine.
  • Add another cat to the household.
  • Homeopathic or pharmaceutical options but always discuss with your vet first!
Two brown and one black horse in a pasture
Courtesy: Rebekka D / Pixabay

Pet Separation Anxiety: Horses

When separated from other horses (and owners), equines can experience separation anxiety!

According to Dr. Camie Helesi, a renowned equine researcher, separation anxiety stems from wild horses benefiting from strong social connections and bonds. Even short separations can result in equine fear, anxiety, stress and outbursts of panic.

What does separation anxiety look like in horses?

  • High volumes of abnormal vocalizations.
  • Shaking or trembling.
  • Increased heart rate and sweating.
  • Loss of appetite and an unwillingness to drink.
  • Rearing, kicking out, bucking, spooking, pawing or bolting.
  • Pacing and fence walking.

Equine Separation Anxiety: Why

  • Separated from their herd.
  • Confined in isolation (even for short periods).
  • Horses who are tightly bonded.

Donkeys can help horses avoid pet separation anxiety
Courtesy: F. Muhammad / Pixabay

Equine Separation Anxiety: Solutions

  • Desensitization: Using short training sessions, work with keeping your horse’s focus on you while slowly moving them away from their companions. Reinforce good behavior and obedience with high-value treats or a groom session at the end to bolster their confidence.
  • For horses that must be separated, keep them in visual proximity.
  • Pair anxious horses with smaller ponies, goats or donkeys.
  • By keeping horses in a group of three, a horse is never left alone.
  • Homeopathic or pharmaceutical options but always discuss with your vet first!

If your efforts at easing your pet’s separation anxiety
are not working, find an animal or veterinary behaviorist to help you.

Separation anxiety is a serious condition and should not be ignored!

Brushing white horse with an EquiGroomer Tool
Courtesy: EquiGroomer.com

Grooming sessions are a wonderful way to reward your horse after
a good training session or ride!

Pain-free
Comfortable for sensitive-skin
Easily removes loose hair, dirt, and dander

Click here to purchase your
EquiGroomer Grooming Tools today!

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.

Posted on by equigroomerllc

Are you confused when it comes to the terminology for
horse markings? If you’re new to the world of horses,
it can be confusing when it comes to understanding the
subtleties of equine markings.

Horse Markings Distinguish Individual Equines

What are Horse Markings?

According to Horse Illustrated, “horses can display a wide variety of markings on their bodies.” Horse markings are determined by genes and these white areas can be used to identify horses from others of similar color. These markings can also help prove ownership of a stolen or lost horse because rarely do two horses look exactly the same.

Horse markings are typically divided into 4 categories, but there can also be combinations of markings and other potential markings.

  1. Facial.
  2. Legs.
  3. Spot.
  4. Dorsal or Eel Strip.

A spot can be anywhere on a horse’s body. What’s unique is that the “hair swirls in a circular direction” in contrast to the rest of the horse’s coat.


A Dorsal or Eel Strip is found on the horse’s back. It is a darker strip of hair running down the back from the mane to the tail. This marking is common among:

  • Mustangs.
  • Duns.
  • Donkeys and mules. (There may also be a second horizontal strip across the shoudes in these breeds.)
  • Certain pony breeds.

Next, let’s look specifically at equine facial and leg markings.

Horse Markings: The Face

Equine Facial Markings
Courtesy: Public Domain / USGS

The common facial markings (by shape and location) include:

  • Star: A white marking between or above the horse’s eyes. Stars come in varying sizes and shapes including round, half-moon, heart, oval and/or crescent.
  • Snip: Like a star (above) in varying sizes and shapes, but located on the nose or muzzle.
  • Strip: A narrow white strip that runs down the middle of a horse’s face. (A crooked or wavy strip is sometimes called a “race.”)
  • Blaze: Where the white vertical line is wider and more prominent than a strip (above). May stop partway down the forehead or continue to the muzzle.
  • Bald: Where the white on a horse’s face goes above their eyes. The white is much whide than a blaze (above) and covers most of the face. Common in Paint horses along with blue eyes.

Horse Markings: The Legs

Markings on horse's legs
Courtesy: Public Domain / Sara Sander

The common leg markings are identified by how high the white area extends on the leg.

Markings on Equine Legs
Courtesy: Merck Vet Manual
  • Coronet: A thin band of white hair just above the hoof. (The coronet also describes the upper part of a horse’s hoof.)
  • Pastern: When talking about a horse’s anatomy, the pastern is between the top of the hoof and the fetlock. When speaking about horse markings, the pastern is a patch of white hair on this area of the leg that may or may not go all around the leg.
  • Ermine: This describes a dark marking within the white marking above the hoof but also touching the coronet (coronary band) which differentiates it from a regular spot.
  • Sock: A common horse leg marking that extends from the top of the hoof about two-thirds up the leg and includes the fetlock. Horses can have from 1 – 4 socks. Also referred to as an anklet.
  • Boot: The boot extends higher than a sock, but below the knee.
  • Stocking: The marking starts above the hoof and goes beyond the knee and may include the entire leg. A similar marking is called the half-stocking or half-cannon.

Learn more about horse markings at EquineSpot.com.

EquiGroomer Tools for Horses
Courtesy: EquiGroomer.com

Keep Your Horse’s Markings Clean and Beautiful with the Best Grooming Tools for Pain-free and Comfortable Grooming!

The EquiGroomer Grooming Tools effectively removes loose hair, dirt and dander on all parts of a horse’s body, including its legs and bellies. The EquiGroomer’s blade is especially useful for sensitive-skinned horses.

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604
or click here to send us an email.

Posted on by equigroomerllc

Many of use create homemade treats for our dogs and cats. But have you made healthy treats for your horse?

If you’re not ready to heat up the oven yet, here is a great recipe for an easy, no-bake horse treat below!

Why Homemade Horse Treats?

Many animal lovers have turned to making their own homemade treats for the pets in their lives. Home-baked treats offer our pets extra nutrition and healthy, natural supplements over the mass-produced treats sold in stores. Making your own treats can also help you save money over the store-bought ones.

Horse treats are a simple way to add nutritional benefits without changing their regular feeding program! So, let’s dive in with our first recipe!

A Healthy, No-Bake Horse Treat

From the pages of the Savvy Horse Woman website, we begin with this easy, no-bake treat recipe for horses. Coconut oil, chia seeds, apple cider vinegar and Himalayan salt make up the majority of the healthy ingredients in this horse treat! Keep reading to learn the benefits of each.

Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil
Courtesy: M.H. / Pixabay

In contrast to traditionally used vegetable oils, coconut oil is easier to:

  • Digest.
  • Absorb; and
  • Convert to energy.

In addition, it’s reported to assist with ulcers, acidosis, colic and dysbiosis. It’s also helpful for equines on a grain-based feed.


Coconut Oil: Top 10 Uses for Horses


Chia Seeds
Courtesy: Moho01 / Pixabay

Chia Seeds

Proper Omega-3s and Omega-6s will leave your horse with a shiny coat and improved hoof growth! More beneficial than flax and fish oils, chia seeds contain higher levels of Omega-3 fatty acids which offer:

  • Natural anti-inflammatory properties.
  • An alternative for maintenance or recovery.
  • A USEF-sanctioned supplement for performance horses.


Chia Seeds: Top 10 Benefits for Horses



Bottle Apple Cider Vinegar
Courtesy: Amazon.com

Apple Cider Vinegar

Also known as ACV, apple cider vinegar helps acidify your equine’s stomach for better digestion and mineral absorption. It even prevents intestinal stones from forming and growing (helpful with hard water or horses that ingest a lot of alfalfa hay).

In addition, ACV helps protect your horse against:

  • Bacteria and parasites.
  • Waterborne diseases.
  • The fast absorption of sugar into the bloodstream for horses sensitive to sugar.
  • Degenerative joint health, arthritis pain and stiffness (just like in humans).


Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV): Top 10 Uses for Horses



Pink Himalayan Salt
Courtesy: Minree / Pixabay

Himalayan Salt

Mined from the Himalayas in Pakistan, Himalayan salt is regarded as one of the purest salts with its natural minerals and trace elements intact. (This is unlike traditional table salt that is highly processed and contains mostly sodium chloride.) An added benefit, most horses love and prefer it! It can be fed in block form or added to your horse’s feed.

Now you’ve understood all the healthy benefits of this no-bake treat, let’s get busy!

No-Bake Horse Treat Recipe

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 2 tbsp molasses
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • Pinch of loos Himalayan salt
  • Approximately 2 tbsp water (as needed for the right consistency)

Now the easy part! Mix all ingredients and roll into balls, 1 to 2 inches in diameter and store in the refrigerator to maintain the shape. Then share with your horse!

Horse smiling with tongue out
Courtesy: BelindaCave / Pixabay

Be sure to subscribe to our blog to get access to additional
horse treat recipes and other great horse content!

Horse Tack Shop Starter Kit of Horse Grooming Tools
Courtesy: EquiGroomer.com

Horse Grooming Tools with a Countertop Display Unit for Your Horse Tack Shop!

The Horse Tack Shop Starter Kit is all you need!

Retail Pet Store Owner? We’ve got you covered too!

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send an email.

Posted on by equigroomerllc

How can you accurately measure a horse?

Below, learn how to make your own measuring stick and how to accurately measure a horse.

Equine Measuring Sticks

There is a variety of measuring sticks and tapes that can be used to measure your horse from various tack shops and even eCommerce platforms like Amazon, Chewy and more for around $40. But if you’re even a little handy, you can make your own measuring stick for less than $10 with the instructions below.

Courtesy: OTTBtraining.com

The DIY Horse Measuring Stick: Supplies

  • 6-foot (or longer) 1-inch x 2-inch piece of wood
  • 3/4-inch diameter wooden dowel, 24-inches in length
  • 3/4-inch x 3/4-inch x 1/2-inch PVC saddle tee
  • Measuring Tape
  • Pen/Pencil
  • Permanent Marker
  • Zip Ties
Courtesy: OTTBtraining.com

Horse Measuring Stick: Directions

Marking the Stick:

  • Make the first mark with a pen or pencil at 48 inches (or 12 hands) and then mark every inch until you reach the end of the stick at 72 inches (or 18 hands).
  • Go over each mark with a permanent marker creating a partial horizontal line. Then write the horse hand height next to each line.
  • Starting at 48-inches, mark the incremental measurements: 12, 12.1, 12.2, 12.3, 13, 13.1 … until you reach 72” (or 18 hands) as illustrated on the right.

Adding the Measuring Arm:

  • Insert the wooden dowel into the threaded side of the PVC saddle tee getting it as secure and level as possible.
  • Mark a line on both sides of the PVC fitting as an extension of the bottom of the wooden dowel to find an accurate measurement when placed on the horse’s withers.
Courtesy: Horse Pros
  • OPTIONAL: Use the zip ties to loosely secure the measuring arm to the measuring stick. Do not overtighten the zip ties so you can still easily slide the arm up and down.

The finished horse measuring stick is shown below.

Courtesy: OTTBtraining.com

(Want to add jump heights on the reverse side? Go to OTTBtraining.com for directions.)

Courtesy: Equine Helper:

Accurately Measuring a Horse: 4 Steps

Horses are measured in units called “hands.” (One hand is equal to 4 inches.) Now, let’s go through the four steps to accurately measure your horse.

  1. Measure your horse on level ground for the most accurate measurement.
  2. Make sure they are tethered to keep them in place.
  3. Ensure your horse is standing “square.” This means the two front legs and both hind legs are standing directly next to each other. Your horse will now be standing at their full height.
  4. Measure from the ground – besides one of your horse’s front hooves to their withers as illustrated below. If you’re using the DIY Measuring Stick, lay the measuring arm across the withers at a 90-degree angle for an accurate measurement.

Courtesy: Equine Helper

The withers are the highest point of a horse that maintains
a consistent height.

Is It a Horse or a Pony?

There is a height distinction between a horse and a pony. Horses are 14 hands and 2 inches (or 14.2 hands) and taller while ponies are below the 14.2 height. (Horses reach their final height around 4-5 years of age.)

Video: How to Measure a Horse’s Height by Equine Helper

The WaterWisk 7-inch Horse Sweat Scraper!

Courtesy: EquiGroomer

Save time and stay dry by adding the WaterWisk to your horse’s bathing tool kit. It will remove excess soap and water from your horse’s coat and prevent the inevitable stream of water that runs down your arm when using other types of scrapers.

Unlike traditional sweat scrapers made of hard plastic, rubber (that often gets hard and cracked) or metal, our blade is made from a tough but flexible polyurethane – the same materials silk screeners use – so you can use it to remove water from every part of a horse’s body, including the bony areas such as hips and legs.

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.

Posted on by equigroomerllc

Despite the dog days of summer ending on August 11th, heat records continue throughout the United States. Lean how extreme heat affects our pets and how to help.

Death Valley experiences extreme heat
Courtesy: Jplenio / Pixabay

THE Hottest Month on Earth!

On Friday, August 13th, the “National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) declared July 2021 the world’s hottest month in 142 years of records.” Even Death Valley, California hit a new world record at a sweltering 130 degrees F!

In addition, records were also broken in Turkey, Northern Japan, Italy and Northern Ireland.

These extreme temperatures are life-threatening for humans, imagine how our pets felt trying to adapt and cope with extreme heat!

Extreme heat affects marine life
Courtesy: Donieve / Pixabay

All Animals Are Affected by Heat

Both wildlife and domesticated animals are affected by these scorching temperatures. Even marine life has paid a high price on the Pacific Coast with millions of mussels, sea stars, barnacles and hermit crabs dying.

So how can you protect your beloved pets during these all-too-common heatwaves?

Extreme Heat: How Pets Cool Down

First, it is important to remember that physiologically cats, dogs, and rabbits cannot deal with extreme heat as we do. While we can regulate our body temperature through our largest organ, skin, animals are different.

Extreme heat affects our K9s
Courtesy: Couleur / Pixabay

Dogs and Cats: Sweat only through their paws and noses. Panting also helps them cool off.

Cats: Through grooming their fur, the saliva evaporates off their hair and helps cool them down.

Rabbits and Birds: Do not sweat at all! They try to cool down with panting. Birds open their mouth and “flutter” their neck muscles to promote heat loss. They also flap their wings. Rabbits dissipate heat through their ears.

Horses: Cool themselves through 1) the dilation of skin capillaries and 2) sweating through their skin.

Remember, deal with dangerously hot temperatures from your pet’s point of view, not your own.

Extreme Heat and Risks

Animals don’t always let us know how they are feeling. So, the pet owner needs to understand each animal and protect them in extreme temperatures.

Extreme heat affects our pets and can cause dangerous conditions including:

Extreme Heat: 8 Ways to Protect Your Pets

Extreme heat affects our pets
Courtesy: Madhurima Handa / Pixabay
  1. Offer plenty of fresh, cool water.
  2. Run the AC; do not rely on just a fan.
  3. Make sure any pets in cages are away from all windows. Pull the shades to keep the heat out.
  4. Brush them often to remove old, excessive hair.
  5. If your pet begins to overheat, slowly cool them down and contact your vet.
  6. Keep a closer eye on pets susceptible to heatstroke including:
    a. Brachycephalic breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers.
    b. Pets with heart issues.
    c. Overweight pets.
    d. Very young or very old pets.
  7. Remember humidity adds to the overall heat index so be extra vigilant!
  8. Know your pet so you notice if they are not drinking enough water and whether they are overheating.

Extreme Heat: 6 Things NOT to Do!

Extreme heat affects our dogs
Courtesy: Artem Beliaikin / Pexels

Doing any of the six things below could harm your pet (rather than help) during extreme heat.

NEVER:

  1. Shave your pet!
  2. Immerse your pet in very cold water! This may cause shock and even death and stop all cooling.
  3. Leave your dog or other pets outside!
  4. Exercise your pet during the hottest parts of the day. Avoid hot pavement, asphalt and parking lots. Walk your dog on the grass or dirt.
  5. Leave your dog or any other pet in the car!
  6. Leave pets unattended around a pool!

Always work with your veterinarian on how best to keep your pet cool during heat waves based on their breed, age, overall health and condition.

A Rabbit Getting Groomed
Courtesy: EquiGroomer

Regularly brush out your pet’s old, excessive hair with EquiGroomer tools to help them keep cooler during the hot days.

EquiGroomer Grooming Tools: Easy and Pain-Free Grooming!

Click here or on the image to watch the video!

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.

Posted on by equigroomerllc

Should you shoe your horse?

Or should you let your horse go “barefoot?”

For humans, going barefoot supports:

  • A more natural foot control, position and gait.
  • Better “mechanics” for feet, hips, knees, joints and core.
  • Stronger balance and posture.
  • The avoidance of foot pain and/or deformities.

Will horses realize the same benefits in going “barefoot?”

FUN FACT!

Hanging Horseshoe

Many believe horseshoes bring good luck! BUT, if you are looking for good luck, avoid hanging the horseshoe with the open side on the bottom … all your good luck will flow out!

The Barefoot Horse

The “simple” answer, according to the Horse and Rider, is that “under the right circumstances, many horses can go barefoot as long as their owners are armed with the knowledge to make the right decision.” A Barefoot Horse Hoove

A healthy and strong hoof can provide all the protection, traction and support a horse will need. Barefoot horses build up stronger hoof walls and a thickened sole to protect the hoof over prolonged use.

When it comes to shoeing your horse, the answer is not always on one extreme or the other. There are many available options whether to shoe or not to shoe your horse!

So, what knowledge does the horse owner need to make the right decision when it comes to their horse?


To Shoe or Not to Shoe Your Horse: Why

There are several things to consider based on your horse and his individual needs. Horses with naturally strong, Shod Horse Hoofhealthy feet may be able to go without shoes while other equines may need the additional support and protection.

According to Practical Horseman Magazine, “while some horses have naturally strong, healthy feet and can go without shoes in many situations, others need additional support and won’t benefit from being barefoot.”

When trying to determine whether to shoe your horse, consider the following questions.

  • What is your horse’s level of activity?
  • What surfaces is your horse exposed to?
    • Hard, stony or rough ground/trails? Rodeo Horse Doing Barrels
    • Softer surfaces like sand, pastures or grass?
    • Does your horse need to optimize its performance in difficult conditions or competition? 
    • Harder surfaces may require shoes for increased support, protection and traction. Rocky, rough, icy or snow-packed surfaces or the need for optimized performance can cause foot soreness, bruising, and decreased performance for the barefoot horse so horseshoes offer the horse more benefits.
  • Does your horse have conformation faults or medical conditions that need to be corrected or addressed?

If you have decided to shoe your horse, when whould it be done?

Closeup of Horse Hoof on Rocky Ground

 

Did You Know?

The hard exterior of your horse’s hoof is made of a durable protein called keratin.

That’s the same material that makes up your fingernails!


When to Shoe Your Horse

Farrier Shoeing a HorseFor horses wearing shoes, the RSPCA recommends: “shod horses need to re-shod every four to six weeks irrespective of whether they have worn the shoes out or not. Hooves grow continuously and when shod, the hoof cannot wear down as it can with an unshod horse.” 

According to the EquiMed website, “a general rule of thumb is this: if a horse’s hooves grow faster than they wear, they only need to be trimmed.”

So, remember, when deciding to shoe or not shoe your horse, the decision should always be about what’s best for the horse. Always work with your regular vet and farrier to make the best-informed decision for your equine!

EquiGroomer Kits for Horses

Get started with our EquiGroomer Starter Kits for your Retail Pet Shop, Tack Shop or Barn today!

16-Piece Retail Pet Shop Kit

16-Piece Tack Shop Kit

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.

 

Posted on by equigroomerllc

How well do you know horse coat colors? There are a variety of coat colors which all stem from just red and black pigments!

When it comes to horse coat colors, most people recognize black, brown and white horses. But there are a wide variety of colors a horse can show off! Horses also can be recognized as a color breed that is primarily based on their coat color regardless of their breed or genetic pedigree.

Horses have various Coat Colors

Want to test your knowledge first? Click here to access a quiz for horse coat colors!

Many Coat Colors from Just 2 Pigments!

Interestingly, despite the wide variety in equine coat colors, horse hairs only contain two basic pigment colors, red (a reddish-brown color) and black! Every horse has a (dominant) gene for either of these colors which ultimately influences the horse’s specific coat color through gene modification or dilution.

Common Horse Coat Colors
Dandelion Team from Pixabay


The 9 Most Common Coat Colors

According to the iHeartHorses website, below are the commonly recognized horse coat colors. (Depending on who you speak to, there may be more or fewer “common” horse coat colors!)

CHESTNUT OR SORREL
Features brown that ranges from pale (light, flaxen or blonde) to reddish to deep dark brown (liver chestnut) with no black horse hairs.  The mane and tail must be the same color as their coat color.

Sorrel horses are lighter than the Chestnut.

BAY

Brown with black mane, tail and “points” (including the mane, tail, muzzle, tips and rims around their ears and lower legs).

BLACK

May be true black (with no red hues to the coat color) or fade to reddish-brown in the summer. The mane and tail are black and there are no white areas of hair.

PALOMINO

Palomino is a unique cream-color on horses
MrKlean from Pixabay

A cream-colored coat with a white mane and tail. While the color comes from the red gene color, palominos possess a genetic dilution mutation resulting in the cream coat color.

BUCKSKIN

The golden coat is produced much like the palomino, but with the base color of bay (instead of red). Buckskin horses also sport black points.

DUN

This equine coat color is unique and not commonly seen. The genetic mutation provides a black dorsal stripe (the back or upper side) and sometimes even black zebra stripes down the legs.

GRAY

These horses are usually born another base color and over time, lose their hair’s pigment resulting in a light gray or even white coat from the grey gene modifier.

ROAN

Rebecca Scholz/Pixabay

This horse coat color from the base black color with white hairs scattered throughout the coat. There are 3 typical roan colorings: strawberry or red, bay and blue.

PINTO

Typically multi-colored, typically brown and white or black and white. The pinto color only describes the markings of a base color with scattered white patches.

These common colors can be found in almost any breed. The first four coat colors can be found in all breeds that are not color-based.


The Rarest Equine Coat Color

A white horse has the rarest coat color with white hair and primarily pink (or unpigmented) skin. White horses are typically born white with blue or brown eyes. However, the majority of so-called “white horses” are actually grays with a fully white coat of hair.

The white horse coat color is the rarest color.
Omer Yousief from Pixabay

Want to Know More? Click here for the Practical Hoseman’s Guide to Equine Color Genetics & Coat Color!

EquiGroomer.com

Regardless of your horse’s coat color, frequent brushing with the right tools will not only keep your horse comfortable but also support his coat’s beat health and color! The EquiGroomer tools offer easy and pain-free brushing with NO pulling or damage to your pet’s topcoat or skin.

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.

Posted on by equigroomerllc

While the old saying, “you are what you eat,” was talking about humans, the premise is just as important for the animals in our lives, including horses! Keep reading to learn how the quality of hay directly affects your equine.


In our April 28th blog post, we mentioned how feeding older hay (or even store-bought hay) may leave your horse lacking valuable nutrients including Vitamins A and E, biotin, silicon, zinc and copper requiring dietary supplements.

Since the quality of hay directly affects your horse’s health, overall well-eing and performance, it’s critical for horse owners to clearly understand the quality and benefits of different hays before choosing what to feed their horse since it makes up the majority of an equine’s diet.  

Hay is Hay, Right?

Sorry, it’s not that simple; it’s all about meeting your individual horse’s specific needs. These needs include:

  • Energy needs based on activity levels
  • Breed
  • Body type and weight
  • Age
  • Metabolism

So it’s critical to know the differences between grass and legume hay when it comes to your horse’s specific needs as well as the availability of hays in your area.  


Choices of Quality of Hay

Most horse hays are generally categorized into grass or legume.

Common grass hays include:

  • Bluegrass
  • Orchardgrass
  • Timothy

In addition to horses, timothy grass/hay

is a popular source of food for rabbits,

guinea pigs, chinchillas, deer, and even

livestock. It can grow to 3-1/2 feet tall!

Not only is Timothy hay good for digestion

it also supports good dental health!


Qualities:

  • Lower in protein and energy; higher in fiber.
  • Helps buffer stomach acid, adds roughage without excess calories or protein.
  • Less nutrient-dense and filling so horses often eat more.
  • May not be nutritious enough for hard-working horses, a growing foal or a pregnant or lactating mare.
  • Best for horses who engage in light work or are retired.

Common legume hays include:

  • Alfalfa (most popular)
  • White clover
  • Red clover
  • Birdsfoot trefoil

Qualities:

  • Higher in protein, minerals and calcium.
  • Provides more energy.
  • May be too rich in nutrients for lightly worked or retired horses and lead to weight gain.
  • May need to add a high-phosphorous mineral supplement to balance the calcium-to-phosphorous ratio.


Quality Hay: The Must-Haves

Regardless of which hay you feed, make sure it is high-quality and:

  • Sweet-smelling and have a fresh-cut odor
  • Bright green (or golden) with little fading
  • Soft and flexible in your hand
  • Free of all mold
  • Free of weeds
  • Free of foreign materials
  • Free of excess dust/dirt


Quality Hay: What to Avoid

It is also important for hay to be properly baled to maintain its best quality. Keep the following tips in mind when selecting hay.

  1. Avoid hay with more than 15% moisture. Baling wet hay results in mold and toxin growth and lower quality. Avoid moldy or musty-smelling hay.

Learn why you should NEVER feed your horse moldy hay according to the University of Minnesota!

  • Avoid older, stemmy hay. Young, immature hay plants contain more nutrients. More flat leaves and fewer stems offer the best digestibility and nutrient content.
  • Avoid seed heads or blooms.
  • Avoid bleached, yellow, brown or black-colored hay.

With hay responsible for the largest percentage of your horse’s daily feed, supplying high-quality hay will support your horse’s best health. Remember, harvesting, wrapping, storage, moisture levels and the overall age of the hay are all critical factors for the highest quality hay!

Unsure which hay to choose?

Work with your regular vet for your horse’s best health, energy, comfort and longevity!

THE Grooming Tool Your Horse will LOVE!

Do you clip your horse? Another great use for the EquiGroomer comes after they’ve been clipped. Imagine all those tiny fragments of loose hair on your back and then covered with a blanket. Talk about being itchy! The EquiGroomer will bring those loose ends to the surface so they can be brushed off. 

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email. 

Image Credits

Rihaij from Pixabay

Rihaij from Pixabay

AnnaAr from Pixabay

Imklatte from Pixabay

Michael Schwarzenberger from Pixabay 

Christel SAGNIEZ from Pixabay 

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