Hard Ground

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Rachael_jack

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I know with a youngster it is not advisable going to these events with hard going but this is sometimes not practical.

I normally "Like Ice" frostys legs after horsetrials or if i have been doing stressful work on hard ground. But is there any thing such as gel pads that you can put on just for the day? (But this would not be ideal as i cannot get the farrier out that easy or do you not need a farriers assistance?)

I was just wondering how people cope eventing their horses on hard ground?
Thanks Rachael x
 
My friend uses like ice and it works for even her most fragile ones - talk to your farrier about the gel pads though. I wouldn't fret too much if your horse is usually sound because you seem to be doing the right things!
 
You can get a machine from Zamar that pumps fluids around boots at a preset temperature if you really fancy gvetting flash
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Thanks Thistle!!
Its just i know he is a baby but i am really eager to have a go now!! We have a few lined up but this is a close one to have a go at intro rather than pre novice!!

Ohh Rambo is there a sort of cheaper less complicated form??
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You can get rubber pads put between the sole and the shoe. I had this done on one of mine once who had sensitive soles at one point but he was lame, so I have no idea if they do this long-term (ie. for competition use). I would *think* rubber would take away some of the concussion?
 
And I think you can get plastic shoes which apparently can help lessen concussion (since metal shoes are very jarring), I know someone who used them for endurance but they dont last long at all!
 
like someone said earlier if they're still sound you must be doing ok! And the horse will let you know if thinks the ground is too hard for him. i either use ice tight, or bandage, or just cold hose for ages. And if pos i like them to go out and stretch their legs in the field when they get home for a bit, rather than stand in all night right after working on firmer ground.
 
Gel pads just help if your horses is flat footed, will do minimal effect on concussion down the leg. TBH, the only thing that will safe guard horses legs is not running on hard ground at all! They only have 4 legs and unless you have brought to sell you have a whole lifetime with them.... so avoid! But, if you do run on hard ground, do the minimal required, as warming up has an effect too, and also make sure you dont go flat out, keep it steady even if it means time penalties!
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