I just had a thought. Maybe you guys have seen the studies using one Bell boot on a “weaker” leg to help the horse have more awareness to use it. He’s definitely weaker in his right hind. I wonder if trying a bell boot could help?
Vet gets back into town next week 🤞
Yes it can improve proprioception. I don’t know if you need to go there yet with his age and inconsistent work. I’d first try to just work him more. Long working walk and working trot sets. Start with some poles for both proprioception and strength. Try to get him moving more consistently. Start teaching him about contact at the walk. Sometimes the stifles feel weaker just because they are trailing the hind end because they don’t know how to work over the back into contact.
If, as you work on the basics, you don’t see improvement or things actually worsen, then it’s time to investigate whether there is a problem not just a weakness.
Improving nutrition can’t hurt either. He’s young and needs balanced vitamins and minerals. Possibly more vitamin E and magnesium. More amino acids. More fat
for cool energy.
I have noticed the one bell boot does indeed help. Well worth utilizing.
@IPEsq yeah maybe not but useful to think about for later. He is back in work, but probably hasn’t been long enough yet. I’m working with a dressage trainer a few times a month and we definitely are working on encouraging him to use his back and hind end more, into the contact. He’s very good and tries but I can tell sometimes really using himself sure tires him out. We do a TON of walking and adding more trot. I have started using poles twice a week as well as lots of hand walking and backing when I can’t ride.
We are revamping his diet, he previously was on just hay (roundbale) so he definitely could use better nutrition. It’ll be interesting to see how he does.
Still having my vet out just to have a little guidance/reassurance.
By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. You may also receive promotional emails from The Chronicle of the Horse. You can opt out at any time.
For Customers
Company
Terms of Use
