15/06/2023
⚠HARD GROUND⚠
🐴We never seem to be happy with the weather, or the ground, but just a reminder to take extra care when riding in fields and on tracks at the moment.
🌵In some areas, it is so dry that we are starting to see cracks appearing in the ground.
❎We would not advise cantering, galloping or jumping on hard ground as it is the equivalent of jumping/doing fast work on the tarmac.
💡This however, does not mean you shouldn’t go and compete on grass, as many training centres and competition venues have prepared and watered their ground excellently.
✅BUT it is important to check the ground conditions before you ride; and ride to them – even if this means taking it slower.
😳We do understand that it is incredibly frustrating, especially after such a wet winter and spring, but doing strenuous work on this ground doesn’t ‘condition’ the legs – instead it can lead to a whole range of potential injuries.
⚠️Hard ground increases the potential for injury to all parts of your horse's body including concussive-related injuries, fractured pedal bones, splints as well putting the tendons, ligaments, joints, bones, feet, and muscles under increased pressure.
❎Excessive work on hard ground can also lead to bruised feet and concussive laminitis.
💡In addition to being careful and riding to the ground conditions, it is really important to know what is normal for your horse’s legs in terms of swellings, windgalls and inflammation.
⏰ It is good practice to check your horse's legs every day for any changes, swellings, or inflammation, and check for digital pulses (at rest), to help spot problems early.
📲 If you have any concerns at all, call us for advice 01577 841010.