life in the fields

a few cute pictures

2011-04-24T14:06:00.001-07:00

2011-04-12T08:31:00.000-07:00

Riding Without Stirrups: Training or Torture?

Author: Josie Amanii

Stirrups can be vital to a rider's balance. A small but quite useful item of horse tack, the stirrups are used from the moment we first mount our horse. They are used to help mount up, sit centrally, and now and again even just to stay in the saddle! So why, if the stirrups are such an important item of horse tack, do our horse riding instructors take great delight in encouraging us to ride without them?! This is a sentiment which is probably shared by most of the equine world (apart from the odd mad few!), and here we take a look at the benefits.

When you are asked to take your stirrups away, it is important that you cross them over the horse's neck, and lay them across the shoulders, not across your saddle. This is for the sake of you, the rider, as the bruised thighs that can result will ensure that you only make that mistake once! Don't worry, you won't cause the horse any discomfort, as if you lay the stirrups flat, they will move in harmony with your horse. Also try to pull the stirrup buckle out from the stirrup bar a little way, and lay this across the neck. By doing this, and pushing the stirrup leather flat under the skirt of the saddle, you can be sure that the buckle is also out of the way of your thighs, which will avoid pinching and bruising.

The main aim of work without stirrups is to assess and improve your balance and core stability. Any security taken from the stirrups is lost, and therefore your instructor will have a much truer portrait of your position's strengths and weaknesses. Without your stirrups, you must try to feel your seat bones, and sit back onto them. It can be very tempting to rock forwards to absorb the movement through the front of your body, however this will cause the horse to tense and hollow. You need to sit back, and really work at absorbing the horse's movement through your hips, pelvis and lower back. The rest of your body should remain still and upright, moving just a little to accommodate the horse. You should also aim to sit as centrally and evenly as possible.

If you are a nervous rider, taking away your stirrups can help to boost your confidence in the long term. You may find it daunting and terrifying on the spur of the moment, but on a quiet horse no-stirrups work will give you increased balance, and a better feel for applying the aids accurately and sympathetically. If you find it unbearably hard, there is no shame in asking to do the initial work in a walk. You can always build up to the trot and canter, and any amount of no stirrups work is beneficial in lengthening the leg and developing security of seat. It is best to admit your fear and address it rather than worry incessantly, and transmit negativity and tension to the horse.

For the more experienced rider, no stirrups work is also a useful way of developing feel and reducing tension. Often tension can build up without us even realising, perhaps through the ankles, or neck, back and shoulders. Being very aware of your body is a key part of being a good rider, and will help you to be more influential.

Stirrups were originally developed as military horse tack, to allow for greater stability when fighting the enemy. Before their development, everybody rode without stirrups, some even without any horse tack at all! If we're not fighting off enemies on horseback any more, you might argue that the modern horse world should perhaps not rely on stirrups as much as we do. However like so many gadgets, stirrups are a device which have made our lives easier, and for that reason are not going to change. However, if you strive to be the best rider you can be, as we all should, then riding without stirrups should be a significant part of your training.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/riding-without-stirrups-training-or-torture-4586786.html

About the Author The Equine Store is filled with quality products for horse and rider, including made to measure or standard size quality English leather dressage saddles. Take a look at the shop at http://www.equine-store.com and quote customer code 'cust01' for 10% off your first purchase.

2009-03-24T16:52:00.001-07:00

THE BENEFITS OF SNAIL FARMING

Author: Ismail AbdulAzeez

* Snail farming does not constitute nuisance to the environment;the droppings are generally firm and odourless.

* Snail are noiseless and easy to handle.

* Snail meat is recommended for patients with hypertension and heart attack due to its low level of cholesterol and fat.

* Snail blood is used during male circumcision,making tribal marks by native doctors.

* Snail blood and palm kernel oil in equal parts could be used to treat stroke and headache.

* The shell could be used for ornamental purposes.

* The shell is a source of calcium and phosphorus replacing bone meal and oyster shell in mixing rations for animals.

* Snail farming require little land or space.

* Feed for snails are cheap and could be source locally.

* Snail farming is not capital intensive when compared with other livestock farming.

* Snail meat contain anti tuberculosis qualities.

* Mucous of Helix Promatia favours action of penicillin.

* Slugs(snails) in coconut milk has curative properties for Asthma.

* Ortho calcium phosphate is a curative substance extracted from snails and used in medicine by Japanese for Kidney disease,anaemia,diabetes and circulatory disorder.

* Snail meat is cooked along with other local herbs,for pregnant women to ease labour.

* Snail farming can be done as a part time business.

*snail farming is less stressful compared to other livestock farming.

* Snail farming can be easily incorpoarted in other livestock farming like grasscutter farming.

Want to know more about THE BEAUTY OF SNAIL FARMING? Check this link:

http://www.thethyconsulting.com/thebeautyofsnailfarming.htm

Want to know more about Snail and Grasscutter Production? Check this link:

http://www.articlesbase.com/advertising-articles/the-thy-snail-grasscutter-productions-826655.html

By:

Ismail AbdulAzeez,

The Managing Consultant,

The Thy Consulting,

Website: www.thethyconsulting.com

Tel: 01-7653994,08023050835,07033632285.

About the Author:

* Experience: Ten years of business and managment consulting...
* Philosophy: "If it is to be,it is up to me."
* Primary focus: Provision of proven profitable business ideas.For more info on Grasscutter farming visit: www.thethyconsulting.com
* Hobbies: Reading and Teaching.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/small-business-articles/the-benefits-of-snail-farming-832736.html

2009-03-05T11:31:00.000-08:00

Why Are Tractor-Trailer Accidents So Dangerous?

Author: Evan Langsted

Why are tractor-trailer accidents so dangerous?

Accidents involving tractor-trailers are more dangerous than typical passenger vehicle accidents because of the size and weight of tractor-trailers. Most tractor-trailer accidents result in the death of the driver of the passenger vehicle involved.

What is the difference between a tractor-trailer accident and a passenger vehicle accident?

Tractor-trailer accidents are not treated in the same way as passenger vehicle accidents because the trucker and the trucking company are subject to different licensing and insurance laws. There are also different state laws that apply to commercial tractor-trailers.

Why do I need an attorney if I have been involving in an accident with a tractor-trailer?

The trucking company and their insurance company both seek to avoid a legal claim being brought against them, and to minimize any payment they may have to make on a claim. After you have been involved in an accident the trucking company’s insurance adjustor will most likely contact you in an effort to obtain a statement. It is not in your best interest to speak to the insurance company, and you are in no way obligated to by law. An experienced tractor-trailer accident attorney can analyze your circumstances and advise you on what steps to take in order to receive the compensation you are entitled to.

What if I was partly at fault?

The laws governing tractor-trailer accidents differ from state to state, but in some cases, even if you are at fault you may be able to recover damages. It is always best to seek the advice of an attorney regardless of your situation. Even if you don’t think you are entitled to compensation, only an experienced tractor-trailer attorney can fully advise you of your rights.

What causes tractor-trailer accidents?

Many things have been known to cause tractor-trailer accidents including:
• Driver fatigue
• Speeding
• Large blind spots
• Inclement weather
• Overloaded trailers

About the Author:

If you or a loved one has been involved in a tractor-trailer accident, please visit the website of Kalfus & Nachman today. We serve clients in Norfolk and surrounding areas of Virginia.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/personal-injury-articles/why-are-tractortrailer-accidents-so-dangerous-803360.html

What to Expect as a Beginner in Horse Back Riding

2009-01-30T07:53:00.000-08:00

One cannot simply jump onto a horse for the first time and gallop away into the sunset - at least not without injury. Horse riding lessons are required for a person to build up the skill and the confidence necessary to become a truly good rider. In order to learn any higher skills, whether it be show jumping or barrel racing, a solid foundation is required. Beginner riding lessons are designed to teach new riders balance, basic skills and confidence.

Balance is a fundamental element required in learning to ride a horse. Without a good seat, further skills cannot be developed. In learning to balance on a horse, one will learn to move with the horse instead of against it. The natural reaction is to brace one's self and tense their muscles in response to a horse's panic or even just the oddity of its movement underneath a person. This is a matter of time and practice. Often times, an instructor will lead or lunge a horse with a new student on its back. The rider can then take their hands off of the reins and saddle, release their stirrups and truly feel the horse's movement. This is a technique which many trainers employ when working with those new to horse riding. Gripping the saddle is fine for pony rides, but in real riding, one needs to learn sooner rather than later how to balance without this safety blanket.

Basic skills which will be taught in beginner horse riding lessons include the obvious stopping, starting and turning. Skills quickly advance past these necessities to other required skills. Riders must learn to guide a horse with not only hands and reins, but legs as well. This guidance with the legs will be essential in more advanced levels to perform movements such as half passes, leg yielding and other sideways movements.

Leg pressure is also necessary in learning to create bend in a horse - a rather fundamental principal. In beginner horse riding lessons, one will also be taught the basics of form which apply in most fields of riding. One must sit straight, neither slouching on the tailbone, nor perching forward. Legs should be stretched long, with heels down. Hands should be down, just off of the saddle, and elbows held close to the body. Eyes should always be up and looking where one wants their horse to go.

Confidence is a key factor in advancing beyond the basics. In beginner horse back riding lessons, one will learn to truly control a horse. Riders come away from these lessons with a sense of pride and confidence from the knowledge and skills they have gained.

Learn to ride a horse from the comfort of your own home. Lessons include a bonus horseback riding video.

An Overview Of The English Tack Items

2009-01-26T16:36:00.001-08:00

Horse tack is the name for every piece of equipment that is needed for the horseback riding enthusiast. There are two main styles of riding, the English style and the Western style. These two different styles each have their own set of tack; English tack and Western tack. Most shops carry both kinds, but some carry more of one style than the other.

There are several main components to the English tack that are different than Western horse tack. Of course, the basic elements are there; the saddle, bridles, stirrups, bits, and harnesses, but for English horses, many of these different items have their own unique twist. Horse riding has been a popular sport in Europe for many years, almost since horses became used for riding, so it is not surprising that they have their own styles of horse supply. The English horse equipment is used for most Olympic sports, and is also used for most other equestrian sports.

The English saddle is different from the western saddle because it is smaller and allows the horse a greatest range of motion. The English bridle has a Cavesson noseband, and is mostly used because it has the greatest functionality. Another English bridle, called the double bridle, has two bits for maximum control by the rider. English riders also use a breastplate to protect the horse in dangerous activities, such as jumping and fox hunting. There is also a difference not only in accessories between the English and Western styles of horse supply, but also in riding style. English riding focuses more on style and precision, while Western riding focuses more on abilities that the horse and rider can do together.

There are many different sources that offer English tack equipment for your horse. Most tack supplies shops offer both the Western tack and English styles. If new materials are too expensive for you, then there are also different discount tack shops that offer the same materials for reduced prices because they are used. Sometimes English horse tack can be a little harder to find, but there are still options. There are many shops that also sell things through the internet. Shipping is sometimes a big expense, so try and find the larger items nearer to home if possible. And of course, if you are new to the style, be sure to consult with a professional before purchasing any equipment.

For the English style of riding, English tack supplies are necessary for professional quality and safety. Riders in the English style need all of the English horse supply accessories to be competitive in the field. Most riding supply shops sell this kind of tack, so finding the right equipment should be pretty easy. Just remember that if starting this style for the first time, then consulting with a professional will ensure that you get the right supplies.

How Important Are Horse Blankets?

2009-01-26T16:32:00.000-08:00

It is a common practice to have domestic pets around. However, there are some who prefer to have those gigantic animals, like horses. Horses can be quite hard to manage but once you get the hang of, it can be very fulfilling. Taking care of horses includes providing proper shelter, having the proper horse supply items and keeping them warm. That is why having good horse tack supply items, such as horse blankets, is always practical.

Saddle blankets are made to keep horses warm. These blankets are also ideal for protection from wind and other elements. These types of blankets vary in sizes. In fact, most of them are custom-made to perfectly fit around the body of the horse from his chest to rump. Blankets for horses have straps that cross underneath their belly.

Although the blanket are heavily secured and fastened, horses can still move about freely. The most common of these blankets normally have one or two straps that securely buckle in front. However, there are also some designs with closed front, thus requiring it to be slipped over the head of the horse. Also, there are those that have smaller straps lightly lopped around the hind legs of the horse that help to prevent the blanket form slipping sideways.

By standards, horse blankets are normally kept on the horse when it is traveling or when at pasture or in a stall. These blankets are manufactured for different conditions of weather and there are some that are water resistant underneath. Most blankets are manufactured using more modern materials, similar to the ones used in human outdoor wear. However, these blankets are not only to keep horses warm and secure. There are some blankets for horses that are used to keep the hair of the horse short. When worn during the start of autumn and if the horses are kept in a slightly-lit area for at least sixteen hours a day, they won’t grow a winter coat, which is especially beneficial if the horses are being shown. However, if horses are given a partial trace clip or even a full body clip, then blankets are needed at all times if the weather is cool, since the horses no longer have the natural insulation of a longer coat of hair.

Coolers are another types of horse blankets. These are those square blankets that are tied and draped over the horse that has just had a bath or that has just completed an intense workout. These blankets are designed to help cool down a horse because it can provide a better air circulation. Always keep in mind the health of your animals. For horses, have the right blankets to keep them warm and safe.

Western Saddles - Used Is Good

2009-01-26T16:30:00.000-08:00

Do not always rush for new Western saddles, as there could be a few alternatives that would be worth looking through. Very often, you will have a better selection and get better value for your money if you buy a used saddle rather than a new one. The advantages of purchasing a previously owned saddle are many, among which quality is one of the most important. Go to places where you there is a “horses for sale” market and you should be able to find saddles in excellent condition being sold for a pittance. Another advantage with the pre-owned saddle is that it has been broken in, and it will be comfortable both for you as well as the horse. As you will learn from horseback riding lessons, the comfort of the saddle is an important aspect of good riding.

When you are looking for proper pre-owned saddles, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind, such as the brand of the saddle, the model of the saddle, the fit to the horse and the present status of the saddle. The brand and the model of the saddle will tell you the actual quality of the saddle. Good brands saddles, no matter how old, are as good as gold. The fit and status of the saddle is important, as this will influence your ride; the horse will not listen to your body language if it does not accept the saddle. This is why it is very important that you find a saddle that not only matches perfectly with what you have in mind, but also is comfortable for your horse.

Do not buy any used Western saddles over the internet, no matter how beautiful and perfect they look. Buying anything that is even remotely connected with horse supply should never be bought unless it is checked, by putting it on the horse, and also inspected for quality. The horse is not an animal that can be trifled with. Many horses refuse to listen to their riders if they are unhappy with their saddles and other gear. Check out the Western horse tack shops as well. For information on what to look for, speak with a veteran horse-rider or educate yourself online.

You want value for your money when you buy Western saddles, so go for used or pre-owned ones. These saddles should only be bought after they have been inspected in person. If horsemanship is important to you, then you know that a lot depends upon how you ready the horse for the ride; therefore, the saddle is an extremely important factor, as it influences the way the horse reacts to the rider.

Training Young Colts- First Steps

2009-01-26T12:27:00.000-08:00

Horses are a social animal, smart and generally eager to please their owner. They are not, however, born that way. A great deal of time, energy and patience goes into training a horse. Generally, the younger the colt the easier it will be to train him.

FIRST STEPS IN TRAINING YOUR COLT

Trust. Your colt must trust you. Go out and play with him, pet and groom him, get him used to you. Reward him with a treat when he comes up to you.

Halter. When he is used to you then you can halter him. Put the halter on and off a few times. Let him smell it, see it and learn that it won't hurt him.

Tie him up. When you have the halter on, tie him up. Tie him short so he can't hang himself up in the lead. Let him pull back and get used to the idea of being tied. Leave him standing tied for half an hour - it won't hurt him. Keep a close eye on him while he is tied.

Leading. When he understands the idea of being tied you can begin leading him around. Give a gentle tug - never a sharp jerk - and get him moving forward. When he steps forward give him slack as his reward but keep moving forward. If he refuses to step forward then use a rope looped behind his butt and pull gently until he steps forward then immediately let up on the butt rope. You could also lead him to the side until he takes a step.

Pet and groom your colt. Make sure you touch your colt all over. Play with his ears and muzzle, rub him over his rump and down the legs, stand on both sides of him. Walk towards him from different directions. Your goal here is to get the colt used to people coming at him from every direction and touching him everywhere.

Pick up the colt's feet. Start working with his feet. Pick up his feet. Be careful he doesn't kick or bite you and don't let him put his foot down until you release it.

Teach you colt some manners. Now's the time to set the rules. Biting, pushing and kicking are not allowed. A smack and a sharp word will let him know you won't tolerate any of that. They catch on fast.

When you have him tied start with the blanket. Let your colt see, smell and feel the blanket then put it on his back. Flop it across his neck and over his rump. Get him used to the feel of it.

When you have him comfortable with the blanket then start throwing it. Toss it at him gently and be prepared for the colt to jump. He will see the blanket coming in his peripheral vision and it will startle him. Be patient and talk your horse. Get him used to the blanket hitting him in the feet, around the head and over his back and rump.

Wave your hat or jacket around, play with a rope. Get your colt used to activity going on around him.

These steps may seem like small insignificant things but they are what make the horse. Do a good job teaching your colt the basics and you will have a sound horse to ride.

WHAT YOUR COLT HAS LEARNED

To stand tied.

To be led.

To be handled.

Manners.

To have something on his back.

Not to startle when something comes at him.

The last three steps are very important. You don't want to ride a horse that will go wild at the sight of bags flapping in the fence or birds flying out from under him. A startled jump - if that - and a quick recovery is what you're looking for.

Patience is a virtue and every animal learns at a different rate but keep at it. Gain the trust of your colt and he will be eager to please you.

Remember your colt is little and like a child he doesn't always want to go to school. He will argue with the teacher, play tricks and forget everything right before the test. Sometimes you will be able to work long and hard and other days you'll have to break early for recess. Be patient - some of what you are teaching him will stick!

Published: 2006-11-29
Author: Pam Stushnoff

About the author or the publisher

Source: ArticlesGratuits.com - Free Articles

Top tips for investing in your first Vintage Tractor

2009-01-06T10:43:00.001-08:00

As you are looking at this article, then its obvious that you have an interest in vintage tractors.
Make sure that your tractor performs all the basic tasks properly, so check the steering, gears, forward and reverse, PTO, lift, lights, indicators and hydraulics. Even if you want to work on it straight off, you may not be interested in a full reconditioning for some time and need to minimize the number of initial jobs. You should have a detailed check list which included at a minimum the following: does it start easily from cold, run well when hot, all the electrical components work well, does it have good traction If possible you should go to your test armed with a toolbox containing a compression tester, expensive Fluke digital multimeter, hydrometer, and other specialty tools. or bring somebody with you who has these tools.. If you don't have these tools, don't panic as these tools can end up costing more than the tractor itself.. You should in this case rely on your own common sense and your own observation skills.

Does it start from cold? - A tractor that starts easily from cold will eliminate several particular problems at once Good Battery, compression, ignition wiring / magneto, tune up, fuel flow, Carburetor can be assured (not guaranteed) by this. If it doesn't start quickly from cold, it still may be a good machine but you will have to spend some time and money on it. One thing you should be watch out for is if the tractor is out and warmed up when you arrived, you lose an important checklist item, namely the cold start, because as we all know a warm engine starts much more easily then a cold one..

How does it run when warm - Make sure you get it hot, as you will want to ensure it doesn't overheat. When warmed up you should watch out for a number of problems. Plan on spending a half-hour running it. Look for leaks, both oil and antifreeze. Lastly after warm up, shut it down and see if it will start.

How well do the brakes work - Although relatively inexpensive to replace, they are difficult to get at on many tractors and will require a lot of work to replace.

Does the tractor smoke - Blue smoke indicates many potentially difficult problems like rings, pistons, or valve guides. White or black smoke can oftentimes be corrected with carburetion or ignition changes but still represent work.

Does the engine run smoothly - A simple ticking from the top of the engine may be a simple valve adjustment but a deep thunk from the bottom or middle of the engine would point to very serious and expensive repairs. The clunk should be more pronounced under load. This may be an indication of problems with the bearings, crankshaft or piston rods. And mean a very expensive repair job.

Work the hydraulics - Check the full range of the power rams by extending them with a load. Let the load sit in the hold situation for a period of time to be sure that there is no slippage. Chattering noises from the pump while lifting indicate the pump is not getting enough supply of hydraulic fluid. The pump might have experienced excessive wear when run this way for long periods of time and may be ready to fail.

While many of the above examples may sound a bit negative, you should do your background research and understand the specific issues a tractor may have before you invest.Patrick Malloney is an internet entrepreneur who founded Youtractor.com which offers 1,000 of tractor videos showing Farm Tractors

Treating your horse for worms

2009-01-03T06:25:00.000-08:00

Submitted by artavia.seo
Mon, 1 Dec 2008

No one really likes to talk about worms, but they are a fact of life for most horses. They good news is that you can treat them quickly and easily. You and your horse will both feel a lot better. The downside, though, is that the worms aren't as dumb as we think they are. They find great ways to avoid what people use to try to control them, and they can make your horse sick. They cause diarrhea and weight loss and colic, and if they aren't treated a horse can eventually die from them. Even though most horse owners try hard to control them, vets regularly see horses that have worms, and it's becoming a real problem. Different worms cause different kinds of problems, and a low level of infection isn't going to be a big deal. It's almost impossible to keep a horse one hundred percent worm-free all the time. It is the high levels of infection that people have to worry about and that must be gotten under control.

When treating your horse for worms, being educated about horses and their problems can help you do much better in taking care of any difficulties that arise. Not all horses are the same, and individuals who are aware of this can do better in caring for their horses. Some horses are more likely to get worms than others, and owners who know this can treat their horses more aggressively. Some worms also have to be treated with different kinds of medications than others, so treating for one kind of worm won't get rid of all kinds of worms. In addition, some medications are only good for one lifecycle, so the worms might return. Owners who are aware of these kinds of things and prepared for them have much happier horses.

About the Author
This article was written on behalf of Hyper Drug a supplier of equestrian and pet medication and supplies such as Horse Wormers and Flea Treatment

How To Select A Horse Trainer

2008-12-27T16:53:00.001-08:00

Horses aren't considered domestic animals, but they are efficient assistants that could help owners perform different and complex activities.

For example, horses on farms are used to help transport commodities and carry heavy loads of crops and agriculture products to other locations. In far-away communities, horses serve as the essential and efficient mode of transportation because those areas are still not provided the basic infrastructure.

But horses in the wild aren't ready to do those activities in an instant. Horses when untamed are truly uncontrollable and wouldn't be helpful to people for whatever purpose.

Traditionally, horses have been trained for different functions, like for transport, for farm works, for sports and even for warfare. You might have seen those epic movies and sagas where warriors are riding horses during battle.

You might have been awed, at one point of your life, over the usefulness of horses to people and businesses. However, always be reminded that horses can be destructive when left untamed and untrained.

That is why it is very important that horses undergo training sessions, where they will be taught the basic skills and tricks to perform many different helpful tasks.

Hiring A Horse Trainer

Thus, for the horse owner who aims to turn his horse into a useful assistant and as an alternative to machines, it is imperative that a horse trainer be hired.

The horse trainer will help unlock the full potentials of the horse. He will be tasked to condition the mindset of the horse so it could be prepared for training sessions and could be open to learning tricks.

A horse owner will play a very important role to unlocking the horse's potential. That is because in him lies the efforts and the skills to help the animal embrace learning and action on queue.

If you are a horse owner and you are aiming to hire a good horse trainer, the first thing you can do is to seek for recommendations from peers and other horse owners.

Peer advice would be helpful in finding a good trainer for the task. If peers are unable to give such recommendations, the local veterinarian will be of great help. He should know about the best horse trainers in the community. The vet could tell if the horse trainer is doing good and on the right track.

Be advised that there are some vets who also offer horse training services, but in general, not all of them do so. That is because horse training requires a lot of effort and patience, which vets would understandably have lost as they practice animal medicine.

You could also directly hire a horse trainer. You could seek links and contacts from the online Craig's list or from the traditional and online classifieds.

You must do an interview and examine the personal and work history data of the horse trainer to ensure that the services your horse will be provided will be commensurate to the remuneration package.

Several accreditations from horse training bodies and industry groups are also being provided to certify a horse trainer's capabilities. If the applicant horse trainer holds one, then, you are assured that the horse trainer would be the perfect candidate for the position.

Choosing The Best Horse Trainer

When it comes to choosing the best horse trainer, it is a relative and case to case basis. What is good enough for the standard of one horse owner may not be good enough for another. Preferences and standards of horse owners vary.

That is why you can't rely on the experiences of other horse owners on horse trainers. Though, recommendations would be helpful, it isn't advisable that you entrust the overall welfare of your horses wholly to the horse trainer. Take heed from your personal discretion and insights.

Remember, when hiring a horse trainer, you should always look for the best candidate there is. However, the best don't assure that overall care for the horse is guaranteed. Through the interview process, you can get an idea at the overall disposition of the applicants.

Jolliness and genuine interest of horses would be the best trait a good horse trainer must have. The horse trainer applicant in your front may not be the best according to recommendations from vets and peers, but knowing the person through a sincere talk may indicate that he is truly interested in training horses.

That would be the best quality of a horse trainer.

This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.

Horses In Art, Literature And Mythology

2008-12-09T20:12:00.000-08:00

Few animals have influenced the history of human culture like the horse. These four-legged running machines gave us food, mobility, and enhanced success at hunting hard-to-catch animals. And the influence goes both ways: archaeologists say that horse skeletons dating from 2000-2500 BCE already show differences from those of wild horses that attest to the effects of breeding and (partial) domestication, while scientists theorize that the adoption of horses by Late Ice Age-era Eurasian tribes may well have saved these horses the extinction that befell their North American counterparts.

But with all else they've given us, horses have symbolized grace and power for thousands of years. Paleolithic cave art is some of the oldest known art on earth; what inspires awe, however, is - bluntly - that it's as great as it is old. Here at the dawn of art history we find images of animals so subtle in their artistry, in the mixing of the colors and in their observed details, and yet so grand in size and conception that they still transfix observers today.

The Lascaux cave paintings of southwestern France, near the village of Montignac, represent the most famous examples of this branch of art. Discovered in September 1940 by four French teenagers and a dog, these caves hold nearly 2000 figures, including animals (an estimated 900, of which 605 have been identified), some faint dot configurations which may represent constellations, and a single human.

The caves' bison paintings may rank among its most famous - one bison is 17 feet long, while another, "The Crossed Bison," shows a use of perspective that doesn't recur in painting again until the 15th century CE - but a visitor to Lascaux would see more horses than any other kind of animal: 364, in fact.

"Would see" because the caves were closed to the public in 1963 after twenty-three years of tourism left the paintings visibly damaged by carbon dioxide. However, the images can be easily found in books and on the Internet, while tourists to France can visit Lascaux II, a replica of two cave halls that opened in 1983.

Horses rear their powerful heads in much of ancient culture and literature; references to horseback riding appear, for example, in Mesopotamian documents that represent some of the earliest written remains of human culture. But no one could forget the myth of the Trojan Horse - the gigantic horse replica wrought by Epeius and presented as a peace offering to the unfortunate Trojans, who didn't realize this "gift" was stuffed to its pointy ears with heavily-armed Greek warriors determined to end the ten-year Trojan War with a sneak attack.

The origins of this myth, as with the larger narrative of the Trojan War, are shrouded in mystery, though it's possible that they reflect at least some genuine history. (Some modern commentators suggest that the Greeks might simply have made a horse-shaped battering ram, and that the story of the giant hollow horse arose from later oral historians' misunderstanding of surviving veterans' descriptions of a "horse."

Ancient Assyrians, after all, often gave animal names to their siege machines.) In any case, the story comes down to us from a brief vignette in Homer's Odyssey (the hero of which, Odysseus, came up with the scheme in the first place), and, most of all, from Virgil's achingly vivid depiction in Book II of his Aeneid. Here we learn of Laocoon's brave effort to warn his fellow Trojans - "Don't trust this 'horse,' Trojans! Whatever it is, I fear even gift-bearing Greeks" - and the midnight raid on Troy, from which Aeneas, the mythical founder of Rome, escapes with his life (but not, alas, his wife).

Among ancient painters of horses, the Tang Dynasty artist Han Gan deserves special praise. Hailing from Chang'an (the province of China we now know as Xi'an), or perhaps Shaanxi or Henan - accounts differ - the young painter came to the attention of the great Buddhist poet Wang Wei, who, like a modern-day Guggenheim Foundation or National Endowment For the Humanities, paid for Han's education.

He became a painter in the Han court, working with many subjects; however, he's most famous for his paintings of horses. His reputed ability to paint not only the body, but the spirit of a horse earned him the privilege of painting the Emperor Xuanzong's favorite horse, "Night-Shining White," among many others.

Finally, horses recur in Norse mythology, where they are as closely associated with particular gods and heroes as Silver with the Lone Ranger. There's Heimdallr and Gulltoppr, Odin and eight-legged Sleipnir. Little wonder, then, that horse racing is viewed, from time immemorial, as the "sport of kings."

About the Author:
TRP Services offers Thoroughbred horse racing and horse racing tips online for horse racing handicapping and those who love thoroughbred horses for the horse racing tracks.

All About Horses, Cowboys & Indians Western Decor

2008-12-06T07:25:00.000-08:00

A little bit about my store, Horses, Cowboys and Indians Western Decor. Since I love the western decor theme and being artistically inclined, I needed an outlet for my Gourd Art and Horseshoe Art, so I opened this store. I looked around for other products to stock here since it is a bit difficult to find quality western decor. I think I have done this as I have a nice selection of reasonably priced items to offer for sale. You can't just visit my store once and say that you have seen everything because I am constantly adding new items from my suppliers, and occasionaly taking some items off because they are no longer available, but I am constantly creating new Gourd and Horseshoe Art too, and no 2 pieces are alike. Most horseshoe items you can purchase more than one of because we can make more of most of them. But the site is always changing so come back often to see what's new.

I have found a source for nostalgic tin signs with a rustic country theme that I think are really nice. Also I have found a line of cast iron items that are pretty cute and reasonably priced. Now, the Liberty Bronze Collection of horses, cowboys and indians are great. They are made from alabastrite or stone resin and finished with a bronze-like finish that makes them look and feel like real bronze. From a distance you can't tell if they are real bronze sculptures or not. They are very nice and make great gifts.

The latest thing we have added is a free certificate with every purchase to join a Travel Club that offers discounts on cruises and hotels, two for one airfares. We think it makes a great thank you gift.

So come by and check out the store often for new items and rest assured that your ordering is secure. www.horsescowboysandindians.com

Source: Free Articles

How to Provide First Aid for Your Horse

2008-12-01T07:50:00.000-08:00

If your horse is in the field, and it suffers a severe cut, you will want to stop the bleeding as soon as possible. You will need to make a call to your vet, and there are steps you also need to take in order to provide first aid to your horse as soon as possible. You will want to stabilize the horse prior to the arrival of the vet.

The first thing you want to do is make sure you have a first aid kit available for the horse in advance. The first aid kit should have all the important constituents necessary for emergencies and small cuts. You always want to make sure that you have first aid readily available. You will want to make sure you have all the important tools you need, and you will want to know how to use them.

A commercially available first aid kit for horses will cost between $39 and $80. You will want to make sure the kit has a thermometer so that you can check the temperature of the horse. All horses should have a standard temperature of 99 to 115 degrees. The first aid kit should also come with a stethoscope so that you can monitor the heart rate of the horse. You can listen clearly to the heartbeat just under the elbow on the left side of the horse.

All first aid kits should have a flashlight, in case you have an emergency in the dark. You will also want to have electrolytes in case the horse becomes dehydrated. Warming up water and adding a small teaspoon of electrolytes can encourage water consumption by your horse. The first aid kit should also have neosporin, iodine, and hydrogen peroxide. Avoid using the hydrogen peroxide on wounds as it will destroy benign tissue.

You will also want to have wire cutters handy in the event the horse gets stuck in a gate or wire. You will also want to use a twitch which can calm your horse and keep him controlled in situations where it will be in great pain. You will also want to make sure you have a knife cutting bandages and other materials. You will want to make sure you don't injure your horse when handling the knife.

You will want to use the iodine solution to clean out any thick wounds. Any wounds which will be treated by a veterinarian within a hours of the injury should not have medications applied, and should only be flushed with iodine or clean water to prevent them from drying.

Article Source: http://www.ArticlesandAuthors.com - THE Premier Site for Articles AND Authors

About this Article Author:

Michael Colucci is an experienced horse competitor and writes articles for www.horsegathering.com - A free site that includes horse articles, buying/selling horse items, event calendar and a horse discussion forum.

What to Expect as a Beginner in Horse Back Riding

2008-11-30T18:35:00.000-08:00

The Magnificent Horse: From Transportation To Recreation To Pet

2008-11-28T06:23:00.000-08:00

A horse can be regarded as more than an animal to ride, more than a hobby. A horse owner can love that animal as easily as he can love a dog. The main reason for purchasing a horse is to ride but the horse/human relationship is much more than that. When a small child looks up and says, "Your horse is beautiful" the horse owner is filled with pride.

When a horse is well trained and accustomed to working "with" the rider it's almost as if the two are merged during riding. There is no better example of this than a "cow pony" (also called a cutting horse) which is a horse trained to follow, chase and cut a cow from the herd. The need for a horse to perform this duty dates back to the days when range cattle were branded and herds turned loose to roam without benefit of fences. Each rancher used his own brand as a method of recognizing which cattle he owned. During a cutting horse competition, the cowboy can guide his horse without touching the reins. The shifting of the rider's body weight in the saddle tells the horse what direction to take. The perfect communication between the two is amazing to witness.

Watching these competitions makes for a great spectator sport.

People watching can be an interesting pastime. Observing a herd of horses in a pasture is just as interesting in the sense that each has an individual personality just like people. In a herd of ten you might see two laying down, another two might be fighting with each other. A fight can be anything from nipping at each other to rearing up and lunging. If one horse approaches from behind, the horse who is crowded might kick out with one hind leg and sometimes both.

The remaining horses might turn to observe or simply continue grazing. Some will never fight even if provoked. Others seem to enjoy being disagreeable. When a horse lays its ears back it indicates anger against another horse and may result in a bite or a kick.

Every horse owner smiles when offering an apple or carrot as a treat. The warm muzzle and the soft whinny as the animal takes the treat from the open hand is a bonding moment. Petting the side of a horse's nose is like touching velvet.

There are many things a horse has to offer to a human. He can be ridden for recreation or in horse shows. He can be part of a team and pull a hay wagon. Some can be trained to jump and the Royal Lipizzaner stallions which have been bred to perfection for half a millennium perform dressage which has been described as "horses dancing."

Registered thoroughbreds are trained to win speed races. Registered quarter horses learn to run barrels and compete in other speed contests at the Western horse shows. Riding clubs take part in parades on the fourth of July and many Renaissance fairs feature exhibition jousting matches. The versatility and appeal of this magnificent animal can touch your heart if you let it. At that point the relationship becomes more than a joining of horse and rider; your horse has whinnied his way into your heart and become - your pet...

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About the Author: Tom Chapman

Checklist to Buy Used Tractor

2008-11-27T06:55:00.000-08:00

If your thinking of buying a used tractor have a look at the following checklist to help you to find the best fit from our used tractor range.

Here is a list of features that you need to consider when searching for a used tractor.

Horse Power - Does the used tractor that you are looking at have enough horse power to perform the job that you require it to do. Allclass equipment have may different used tractors with different horsepower's for you to browse. Click here to see our current range.

Tyres - Its important that the tractor that you are looking at not only has the required tread pattern for your required purpose but that it is not at the end or close to the end of its useful life. If your used tractor has only a fraction of wear left in the tyres it's an added expense for you to bear in the future. Please ask your used tractor consultant how much life there is in the tractors tyres.

Engine hours - Most used tractors have a long and useful life. You can get an idea of how much life is left in the tractor of your choice by looking at the engine hours. The engine hours will help determine a fair price for the used tractor that you are looking at as the more hours that it has the cheaper it generally is.

Age - the age of the tractor will also determine the price of the tractor to some extent. Obviously if two tractors are the same age you would refer back to the other areas to determine what was the best deal.

History - It's always good to know the history of the used tractor and the type of work that it was involved in in its previous life. This will help you to determine if it will be a reliable machine in the future.

Make and Model - Some makes and models attract buyers more than others. Some makes attract a premium because of their reputation for quality and reliability while others may have certain characteristics that may not be desirable for the job that you are doing. Always check with your used tractor consultant to check if there is anything about the model that you are looking at that may not be good for your application.

Cabin - Because your tractor is your office you need to make sure that you are comfortable working within the cabin. Does it give you the level of comfort that you are used to or need? Is there easy access to all the controls, does it have air conditioning, and any other features that you require?

4WD - 2WD - Do you need a 4WD tractor? Is your new used tractor to be used for an application that is in a location that necessitates 4WD or will a 2WD tractor be sufficient. If you don't need a 4WD tractor then its pointless to pay the extra cost so make sure you are clear what the tractor might be doing in the future so that you know which option to choose.

You should take all these factors into consideration but make sure that you ask our specialist Used Tractor consultants for their feedback on your application and needs. They are experienced at matching quality used tractors with new owners. Contact us now about your needs or view our catalogue of tractors online.

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About the Author: Author Bio:

Andrew Moore is an expert mechanic in evaluating used excavators & loaders, engines & generators for excavators and tractors, buy used tractors, excavator attachments, mowers, Toyota skid, kanga loaders, beeline technology.

Keeping Goats: Learn about Pet Goat care

2008-11-25T07:40:00.000-08:00

For those who have goats as pets it is very important for them to take care of these pets. They need very particular feed, not the rubbish you often associate with ‘goats will eat anything’. A pet goat also needs good shelter for all seasons and fencing to keep it healthy. There are also many goat health problems that you need to be aware of, and prevent in advance.

For such extensive care there are many books, manuals, and websites etc. that provide tips for complete goat care. These sources guide you to keep your goats in the best of health. A good manual would even help you to start your own goat farm with healthy goats. And thus you would generate more profits as a goat farmer.

And if you have pet goats because you need their daily products, you need expert advice to help you transform your poor milking goats into healthy and productive dairy goats.

Anybody keeping goats as pets needs to feel confident that they know how to best care for their precious pets. Without good advice, you can easily end up not only with a goat in trouble, but also very expensive vet care bills. You want to enjoy the experience of having a pet goat, so make sure you learn as much as possible about their feeding and care.

So you need to find the manuals that can teach you how you identify the health problems with goats, prevent them where possible. Like tips on how to avoid poisonous plants that could be fatal for your pet goat. They give a view of some of the important life saving questions that one must keep in mind before keeping goats. For instance, will you be de-horning your goat, to keep your kids safer around it? Then you will need detailed instructions and help to do this safely. Will you be breeding your goat? Then you need expert guidance in the whole process, right through to the birth. Are you keeping a pet goat because you need the milk? Then you will need help in creating milking cycles that would work to your benefit.

One can even discover different fencing types which would save on a great amount of money as well as time. These even give you tips on how you can earn money by extracting wool out of these pet goats.

If you have not already selected your pet goat, a good goatkeeping guide would even suggest what kind of goats would be suit a person in accordance to his/her requirements. Don’t make the simple mistakes so many people do when they first start keeping goats. Be prepared from the very start with all the information you will need.

If you are thinking of starting a goat farm, you would need to be an expert on milk yearling, dry yearling etc. among many, many other subjects on keeping goats healthy and profitable for your business. And from a good manual you would know how to treat any kind of illness or injuries that may occur so that your farm stays profitable from the very beginning.

Such tips could fetch you good profits. A good manual about keeping goats also help you in maintaining breeding and birthing for healthy kid and nanny. Such tips are essential for those who want to breed goats and suggest how to take care of the kid right after their birth.

Get your Guide for Keeping Goats right here. GOAT CRAZY reveals all about How To Have the Healthiest, Best Producing, Longest Living Goats in the Land. If you have a pet goat or even if you want to be a goat farmer, visit http://www.keeping-goats.com right now for your eBook all about the care and feeding of goats. You can also get a gift report on How to Make Goat’s Cheese just for subscribing to our free goat magazine!

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Horse riding summer camp

2008-11-13T07:05:00.000-08:00

Youngsters may have just seen horses in books, TV, or visiting friends who have horses. They may have a fascination of riding a horse but may not get an opportunity. Not only youngsters, but even women and men have a fascination for riding a horse. People who are Rhodes scholars and mentally challenged do enjoy the thrill of horses and the art of horsemanship. As summer is approaching you may be thinking of sending him to a summer camp but it may be difficult for you select the best one for your child, as there are many camps offering this program. You might be worried as, will the child be safe, what type of horses they will keep in the camp. Which horse would be right for your kid? So here are the answers to all your questions?
A summer horse camp is a summer camp with a focus on horses and riding. The camp may run from one day to eight weeks depending upon the program. Some camps do offer longer sessions. Some of them are also coeducational.
A horsemanship camp is an excellent way of teaching your kid as to care for other living creature. These camps teach children how to socialize with others and develop horsemanship skills. Some camps teach kids from taking care of them to feeding etc. In these camps, youngsters have classroom studies and seminars where they learn the basics of horse like feeding, care and riding. These programs last for three weeks. These camps will provide instruction on riding skills each day and offer other activities for a portion of each day.

Many camps focus on English riding styles. Safety is the most important activity.
Riders are asked to wear helmets and boots while they are riding the horse. Safety is very important because of their sheer size which can be dangerous in certain situations. The horses that are found in the camps are well trained and they are kept at the farm throughout the year. The campers are taught the cues that are necessary to communicate with the horses. The different breeds of horses are thoroughbreds, Arabians, quarter horses and walking horses. These breeds are mostly used in the camps. Summer horse camps are most often found on horse farms. Horse farms include horse stables, pastures, and show or performance arenas. Most of them have beautiful landscapes with white board fences and other pastoral farm amenities.

Campers stay in cabins. The camp has full time trainers who are experienced and keep the animals in shape so that campers get the best learning and riding experiences. The camp staff is generally qualified to provide quality instruction about horsemanship. Most of the camps generally use college students or graduates as counselors. These counselors are preparing them for careers in the equestrian industry. Certified Horsemanship association should certify each of these counselors as instructors. Every reputable camp will often give you a list of references. Talk to people who have previously enrolled in the camp who will give you an opinion about the facilities, the quality of the horses, about counselors and overall satisfaction. Mari milian is an Expert author for youth summer camps and coed camps. She has written many articles like Children summer camps,boys summer camps,overnight summer camps, horseback riding camp and music summer camps. For more information visit: paliadventures.com contact her at caterina.milian@gmail.com

Related Articles - Rock star camp, child acting camp, horseback riding camp, water sports camp, children summer camps, ATV racing camp, exercise camp, kids culinary camp,

14Kt Gold and Blue Topaz Horse Ring

2008-11-11T07:07:00.001-08:00

2008-11-09T18:03:00.001-08:00

The Lure of Manure: Energy from Farm Waste

It is well known that animals, and farm animals in particular, produce greenhouse gases. However, unless everyone becomes a strict vegetarian, livestock is not likely to go away any time soon. Knowing that, some enterprising people have turned a liability into a biofriendly asset by using farm waste as an energy source.

For example, a large Chinese chicken farm about 50 miles north of Beijing has converted a coal-powered electrical power plant into a plant powered by chicken manure. The farm has 3 million chickens that produce 220 tons of manure every day. That is a lot of manure and the anaerobic digester system plant is expected to generate as much as 14.6 million kilowatt-hours of electrical energy per year. In addition, this method of generating power is estimated to reduce CO2 emissions annually by 95,000 tons.

The monetary savings will be significant as well. "This biogas project will quickly pay for itself by meeting the customer's demand for cost-effective electricity and heat," said Jack Wen, President and CEO of GE Energy China. "We estimate that the customer will save more than US $1.2 million a year in electricity costs alone."

Meanwhile, back in Texas, an enterprising company, Microgy Inc., is putting microbes to work. The company builds anaerobic digesters, large tanks in which microbes break down organic material in an environment devoid of oxygen. The organic waste products decompose over time into numerous products, including so-called biogas, which contains a large amount of natural gas (methane) that can be burned to produce heat or electricity. There are other useful by-products as well, such as fertilizer and mulch.

At a composting center near Stephenville, Texas, Microgy is building eight 916,000-gallon digesters at a cost of $11.5 million, which will be able to process the manure of 10,000 cows. The plant is expected to start shipping methane in the third quarter of 2008. The plant will be capable of producing about a billion cubic feet of biogas per year and earn an estimated $4.6 million in revenue.

Biogas produced from farm manure is not only a renewable energy source, it solves the problem of waste disposal and can also be quite profitable, unlike many other methods of generating alternative energy that are heavily dependent on subsidies.

In a different, but related field, Biofriendly Corporation is doing its part in making an important contribution towards a greener planet. Their Green Plus® liquid fuel catalyst provides a cleaner, more linear fuel burn in internal combustion engines, resulting in fewer harmful emissions, increased torque and better fuel economy.

For more information about Green Plus visit the Biofriendly website at www.biofriendly.com.

Author:
Author, Peter Verhoeff, contributes articles on environmental issues for Biofriendly Corporation. More information on these and other topics can be found on the Biofriendly site.

Terms: Articles may be reprinted provided content is not edited and links are kept live

Source: www.articledepot.co.uk

top cow breeds in north america

2008-11-09T17:47:00.000-08:00

Top Cow Breeds in North America

We have our preferences, especially when it comes to raising cows and cattle and making it big in the market. It would depend on the country and its market to choose which cow breeds to favor above the others. Here are the top cow breeds in North America today:

Ayshires: This breed is generally red and white in color, with the red color varying from very light to very dark shades. There are cows and bulls that may be nearly covered all in red or nearly all in white. Brindle and roan colors are rare in Ayshires today, although it was once common.

The Ayshires possess great ability to rustle and forage for themselves when under adverse conditions. They can adapt to rugged terrains and harsh conditions better than most cow breeds, and this makes them an outstanding commercial cow breed. They are strong and easy to raise.

Brown Swiss: Also called Braunvieh, this cow breed is brown in color, with a creamy white muzzle and dark nose. This is another strong breed, well-balanced, with a good physique, and can also adapt to harsh conditions.

The Brown Swiss are used both for dairy and beef purposes, as they provide good milk and meat output. The Brown Swiss are also known among milk producers for their good milk, protein, and butterfat production. Their milk also makes great cheese because of their very favorable fat-to-protein ratio.

Guernsey: The Guernsey can vary from yellow to red or brown, with white patches. This is one calm breed, neither irritable nor nervous. Their appearance is that of an animal born with great physical form.

It is the Guernsey's behavior and individuality that attracts many breeders and producers towards it. Dairy and meat production is no problem with their well-balanced body. Their calm attitude and fine temperament makes them great for utility.

Holstein: The Holsteins are the most recognizable cow breed, with the trademark color of black and white. There are also Holsteins that are red and white. The Holstein is a desirable cow breed for producers, as the breed produces both milk and meat. Their milk production rate is observed to be constantly improving, too.

Jersey: The Jersey's color is light brown, though there are those with colors that range from grey to a dull black. White patches are also present, with some Jerseys almost covered by them. Perhaps the main distinctive feature of the Jersey is its black nose border by an almost white muzzle. Another defining trait is its hard black feet, which contributes to strong legs that makes the breed a sturdy and strong one.

Dairy Shorthorn: The Dairy Shorthorns can be red, red and white, white, or roan. The roan-colored Shorthorn has a specific shade of roan that cannot be seen in the other cow breeds. Despite their name, the Dairy Shorthorn can be horned or polled. The Shorthorns' milk is best for making cheese because of its most favorable fat-to-protein ratio.

The Dairy Shorthorns are gentle and quiet in nature, and they can fit well with the other breeds. The Shorthorns also have the ability to recover quickly and have few physical problems. They especially have strong feet and legs. The female Shorthorns make excellent mothers, and have been used as “foundation” females in the introduction of European breeds to Australia.

It is debatable which cow breed is the best. Perhaps, it will never be known which is the best among them because of each has individuality and benefits for the producer and consumer markets. Nevertheless, these remain to be the top cow breeds in North America.

Author:
The author of this article is currently working on Holstein Embryo. Feel free to contact her at keywriterm@gmail.com for any inquiries or concerns.

Terms: Articles may be reprinted provided content is not edited and links are kept live

Source: http://www.articledepot.co.uk/

What to Expect as a Beginner in Horse Back Riding

2008-11-08T17:22:00.000-08:00

Buying And Selling Horses

2008-10-21T09:19:00.000-07:00

Today it is often more difficult than going to the local stable to buy or sell a horse, in some cases it is even difficult to find a stable in the area. There is another way to buy or sell a horse today and that is on the Internet, there are reputable websites where advertisements can be placed to sell a horse and this is also a good place to begin looking for a horse to buy.

Horses, unlike most other things bought and sold, have a health history, a temperament and certain breeds are meant for certain tasks in life. The owner who is selling a horse has certain things that they can do to ensure the horse is sold in a reasonable amount of time and that it is sold to the correct new owner.Selling A HorseIt is important to match the horse with the best possible owner for several reasons, the first of course is that is it a smooth sale and the second reason is to ensure the horse will have a good quality life and be treated properly.Some ways to ensure this is to list the horse at a reputable website where it will attract quality buyers. Then the advertisement should also be properly written with a catchy title to attract views. Photographs should also be a part of this advertisement, an advertisement with accurate and clear photographs will have a much better response.

It should include the sex of the horse, the age along with the height and weight. In this advertisement it should also tell about the breed of the horse including any cross breeding.The advertisement should also have information about the horse that might not be seen from photographs, things that only an owner can know, including the horses’ temperament. The advertisement should also be filled with any other pertinent or interesting information about the horse and its background and his appearance.

This advertisement should also include accurate contact information so that interested buyers will be able to make contact and any email or telephone messages should be answered promptly. One thing that should always be done is to make a decision on the type of payment and stick with that, there are scams whenever selling anything and to avoid this a potential buyer should be checked out prior to accepting a check with their bank to ensure they are a member of that bank. There are also other ways of taking payment such as a cashiers check; this is an amount of money that has already been paid to the bank to draw this check. If selling the horse to a potential buyer that wants to send a check and have you send them the balance back, disregard this buy as a fraud. This is an Internet scam that has cost many unknowing and trusting people money because these checks are not good and the person is in a country that will not prosecute them.

The final step in most cases is done is to draw up a bill of sale that also includes buy back rights. In the event the buyer at anytime decides to sell the horse the original owner will have the option to buy the horse back. The buyer and the seller each receive a copy of the sale agreement.

Buying A Horse
When buying a horse there is as much information that needs to be researched as when selling a horse. One of the first things that needs to be decided is how experienced is the person who is looking for the horse and what they plan to use the horse for, such as riding, showing or racing.

This can determine what type of horse to look for when reading the advertisements for horses for sale. Depending on experience and what type of horse they buyer is looking for they also might want to read the listings of horses for sale to avoid the untrained horse. The untrained horse takes an experienced person and they can take months to train making this an unfit match for the new rider and even the intermediate rider.

The age of the horse is also a factor, the new rider in most cases are not suited well with the young horse, because this horse is not as well mannered or calm as an older horse would be with the new rider.If the buyer is going to look for a horse in the Internet they want to make certain that they are searching for the right horse on a reputable website. Each advertisement should be read over carefully, there are important facts that need to be known before purchasing a horse. The health records of the horse are as important as how nice looking the horse is, an unhealthy horse can be a great expense and also have a tragic ending. The breed of the horse in some cases can also be a factor depending on what the horse is being bought for, as well as its age. This also applies to the buyer who wants to breed the horse.

In many cases when a horse is for sale the buyer can arrange a trial period with the present owner to try the horse out in their surroundings to ensure that it is the proper horse to purchase.

When purchasing a horse from a website on the Internet it is important to have clear concise emails and then phone conversations with the present owner until the time a meeting is arranged.If this is the proper horse and the decision to purchase it is decided then a bill of sale should be drawn up that will protect the buyer in the case that the present owner has withheld any information about the horse that would have stopped the sale.

Above all when buying or selling a horse on the Internet it is important to ensure the site that is used is a reputable one and that they monitor their website to keep it safe for buyers and sellers.

About the Author
Chris Tischer is the owner of LiveryStable.net. If you're in the market to sell or buy a horse, LiveryStable.net is the place to start. They offer horse classifieds as well as detailed information on riding, selecting a good horse and much more.

How to Groom Your Horse

2008-10-19T17:10:00.001-07:00

How to Groom Your Horse

By: Susanne Malloy

There are two major components to grooming a horse and they are brushing the coat and cleaning the hooves. There is no right or wrong way to groom your horse, but it is a good idea to get into a routine and always do the process the same way, either feet or grooming first, so the horse can anticipate what you are going to do next.

Start with your horse secured in crossties that are attached to the halter. This ensures that the horse cannot move suddenly one way or the other, plus it frees up both of your hands to work with the grooming. If you are trying to both groom and hold the horse, you are likely going to find this much more difficult and there is a greater chance of injury. With the horse secured, start either on the grooming or on the hooves, whichever you prefer.

Many owners prefer to start by cleaning the hooves, then the horse can relax and enjoy the rest of the routine. To correctly position yourself, stand next to the horses left front shoulder, just to the front of the body. Run your hand, the hand you don t normally hold the pick in, down the front of the leg until you reach the hoof. Most horses that have had their feet cleaned will pick up their foot, but if they don t gently press your shoulder and upper body against the outside of the shoulder, which will slightly move the horse off balance and he or she will shift weight to the other front foot. When this happens pick the left foot up, bending the leg as it would naturally bend back towards the center of the horse s body. Hold the hoof firmly in your hand and use the pick to remove all the debris. Be very careful not to dig into the frog, the soft, triangular shaped center part of the hoof as this can be very sensitive. Repeat this process with the other feet until completed. Be sure to give a treat to the horse between feet to let him know he is doing a great job.

When grooming you can either start with the mane and tail or end with them, whichever suits you and your grooming style best. If the horse is dirty, muddy or has a winter coat, start with the curry comb and groom the entire body using gentle, circular shaped motions that follow the direction of hair growth. Work from the neck to the chest, over the shoulders, down the back along the sides and down the legs. Remember the curry comb is not flexible so be very gentle on the sides and down the legs. If your horse is flinching and twitching away, switch to the dandy brush over the sensitive areas. After the curry comb, follow with the same pattern with the dandy brush, this will flick away all the dust and dead hair. Follow up with the body brush for that shiny, sleek look, and also use the body brush on the face, but not near the eyes. A soft cloth that has been moistened with warm, clear water or a piece of sponge can be used to clean around the eyes and inside the nostrils.

Author Resource:-> Susanne Malloy is an avid equestrian and an editor for http://www.englishsaddleshop.com/, your complete resource for new and used English saddles, riding apparel, and tack.

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