Height at 6 months - can't find the thread, help!

Spot_the_Risk

Spot_the_Risk

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I know this has been posted before, but of course can't find the thread!

How do you work out an approximate matured height of a foal? Ours is six months old on Saturday, I'm sure there's some mathematical equation that I can use to work out a guestimate of her grown up height. Anyone care to enlighten me, please?
 
Is this the string test you mean?

You take piece of string or bailing twine and measure from the fetlock to the elbow then double it....i think
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It used to be said that if you measured from the coronary band to the flat part (middle) off the knee - what ever that was in inches would be the mature height. If its 12in - its 12hh mature etc - however, bear in mind that different breeds mature at different ages.

(Here comes the science bit).

As foals/young horses grow obviously their bones change, due to bone forming cells called osteoblasts & chondrocytes. These cells lay down calcium & phosphorus (mineralisation) which in time make bones stronger, denser, longer etc. For some breeds (notibly the warmbloods) this can take up to the age of seven. This is due to the "ends of the long bones" laying down cartilage - namely the epiphysial or growth plates.

Overworking the youngster can actually inflict upon this development, and affect its mature height, as can poor nutrition. Adversley, never working on concussive ground doesn't give the youngster the "forces" required to stimulate bone growth.

So, in order to acheive optimum height? Feed well for its breed, (don't over top it) - take it in hand over tarmac, never over lunge (tortional forces) long rein on slightly rougher ground (approx 2yrs) & hope for the best...;)

Scotia
 
ground to point of elbow and double it is what I've used and it's been right

so 31inches ground to elbow means 15.2 when grown
 
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