Prevention A preventative approach to managing your horse's wellness begins now, before there is an issue. Our horses are athletes-even a trail horse carries the weight of his rider and the saddle while managing the trail. Whether your horse performs at competitive levels, takes you for a weekend ride, or is geriatric, routine body work will keep him going comfortably and soundly, as well as increase his longevity. A preventative approach to keeping your horse sound and working at optimal levels includes routine body work. A regular, monthly session offers me a chance to track your horse's 'normals', as well as head off any potential soft tissue issues before they become more serious. In these economic times, it has become imperative to support the longevity of the horse you have now-to keep him strong, supple, and balanced in his work; to keep him happy. Injury Returning your horse to work after an injury is a multifaceted goal, which takes patience and time. If your horse is recovering from an injury, there are several facets of rehabilitation body work will address. I mention these on my 'A Session' page. We will address compensatory gait changes resulting in uneveness, muscle memory/proprioception, muscle hypertrphy and atrophy, and finding balance through ground exercises. Let us not forget the whole horse! Optimum horse care is a multifaceted task, of which body work is just one! Conscientious management, proper training techniques, properly fitted tack, balanced and appropriate shoeing or trim, diet, and a close relationship with your veterinarian are all necessary facets to your horse's wellness. Management   Training- Are you training with your horse's longevity in mind?   Housing- Does your horse have adequate mental stimulation, companionship, and turn out? Properly Fitting Tack   Not just the saddle, but the girth, saddle pad, bridle and bit as well! Ill-fitting tack can be the cause of many lameness and behavioral issues. Shoeing/Trim   Have you kept yourself abreast of current farrier/trimmer science? Nutrition and Diet   Have you consulted with your veterinarian about the proper diet, including supplementation, for your horse? Age   Is your horse appropriately active for his or her age? Even the geriatric horse will benefit from regular, light exercise. Annual Wellness and Dental Exams   Its important for your veterinarian to keep tabs on your horse. Just as we humans like to check in with our doctor at least once a year, the same goes for our vets. Your vet helps to keep your horse sound and, through a lameness exam, diagnoses her when she is not. Your vet should know your horse, and you should depend on your vet to keep you updated with current, pertinent information regarding nutrition, dentistry, lameness, and management.

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