Muzzling a Shetland - urgent advice needed please

[Sarah1]

Hi

I have got to muzzle my fat little shetland - I had hoped I might get away with it as there were 2 ponies and half a dozen sheep grazing a small area but the sheep have been removed and I just don't want to risk her getting laminitis.

So, I'm ordering a dinky rugs muzzle today but what I really need to know is this - a friend said that when they wear a muzzle they need to be on long grass or it won't reach into the holes of the muzzle and they'll get nothing?

We don't have any long grass - the orchard she's in has been well grazed but now that the sheep have gone she's getting all of the fresh shoots which is what is concerning me...?

Help please!

 

[charleysummer]

Not sure about the long grass thing- ive found that the long grass just bends over on itself and is actually quite difficult to reach through a muzzle! the shorter, richer grass is much easier as it sticks up in to the muzzle

 

[Mrs B]

She should be fine getting the new shoots with a Dinky, just not so many of them in one mouthful!

We've got 4 or 5 on the yard with this make and they all manage just fine, although some take a little longer to work out than others.

They are soft, but as with all muzzles, don't leave them on 24/7 and keep an eye out for any rubs, especially when everything's wet.

Good luck with your little one!

 

[Sarah1]

Thank you both for your replies - have ordered the dinky muzzle today & asked for a speedy delivery!
Pony is going to hate me though...!

 

[pixie]

Mine is muzzled 24/7. He would be a heffalump if he wasn't. Farrier is very impressed with his condition.
Duct tape or sheepskin round the edges helps reduce rubs. Rather a few rubs than laminitis anyways.

 

[dalidaydream]

You'll be able to tell if she can get the grass or not - before you put the muzzle on her, stick it on the ground and if the grass pokes through the hole bingo

 

[Beentheredonethat]

Dinky Rugs muzzle works fine with short grass. If you wash it regularly it will stay nice and soft so shouldn't rub>

 

[Orson Cart]

Actually, if you place a muzzle over long grass you will find that it bends the grass down and allows very little, if anything, through the holes. They work much better with short grass.

Good luck - my mini shettie got the hang of her muzzle straight away. They're clever little beggars!

xxx

 

[Twinkley Lights]

Good luck hope it stays on I have the world's greatest muzzle shredder on loan from Bransby

 

[Sarah1]

Thanks everyone - the muzzle should be here today so we shall see...