Somehow the 6am starts are less gruelling when the light is beginning to break and being able to ride at the end of a work/school day brings much cheer.
As Spring is springing everywhere around us, from the cheerfully bright daffodils and beautiful blossom to the chirping birds . . . our four-legged-friends feel the buzz of this time of year even more acutely than we do. Which you might have spotted . . .
From spooking and other signs of anxious behaviour, to uncharacteristic bucking, there are a few changes that you might notice in your horses in the next few weeks. All are completely normal but good to be aware of so that those spicy moments don’t leave your confidence dented.
At the heart of this is the beautiful spring grass. Studies show that horses eat faster in the Spring, making up for the lack of grazing during the winter months and enjoying the nourishment the fresh grass has to offer. However, because grass stores sugars near the base, when your horse grazes this newly sprung crop, he is getting a very sweet, high-sugar meal that delivers a surge of energy which can lead to unwelcome behaviours.
So, what can you do?
?? Firstly, don’t panic. If you’re a little more nervous, then it’s worth talking with an instructor to guide you through this period. Have a few lessons or attend some clinics to boost your confidence and ability to tackle these changes.
??Lunge or loose rein before you get on. This will help your horse burn off any additional energy that he’s been building before you get on.
??Continue to offer hay in the field if you’re worried about your horse purely consuming this energy rich grass and restrict paddock time if necessary. Revisit your feeding regime to ensure that you’re taking the extra nutrition into account.
??Mix up your riding, a bored horse is more likely to misbehave so change the canter spot on your hack or try some different pole exercises to keep him focused.
??Change your turnout plan. If you normally ride in the morning and turnout afterwards, consider switching this around so your horse has had the ability to burn off some steam before you tack up.
??If this spiciness is also reflecting in your horse’s in hand behaviour, then spend time bonding with him on the ground and establishing boundaries. This will also help support your relationship when you’re in the saddle.
For helpful hints and tips throughout the year, keep tuned to our blog and don’t forget to subscribe to PADDOX for all your horsey-adventure information.
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