Protection for horse out hunting for first time

[Cadaran]

Happy New Year to everyone!
I wonder if you can help? I would like to take my TB to see hounds for half a day, just to stay at the back and get some initial experience. I am worried about his legs and wondering about what boots he should wear for the best protection. Out hacking he wears brushing boots at the front and when schooling he wears brushing boots all round. Would you also advise fitting a hunting breastplate?
Thanks in advance for your help.

www.petsinmemoriam.co.uk

 

[Maesfen]

Definitely a breastplate! I'm of the old school that say these should be obligatory for any cross country work but a lot disagree with me, you don't have to use a martingale attachment if it's not needed. I think if you have seen the carnage that can happen if a saddle slips a few times then they might change their minds, but to each their own. If he normally wears boots then I would continue but you must watch that mud and grit don't get between them and cause problems; from choice, I wouldn't use them at all unless horse has a real problem with brushing. Also, might be an idea to have either a green (for young horse/novice) or a red (if at all likely to kick out, even just in excitement) ribbon on the tail too.

Hope you enjoy!

 

[Cadaran]

Thanks for your helpful advice. I will certainly get a breastplate and it would be a good idea to put a green ribbon on his tail.
Regards

www.petsinmemoriam.co.uk

 

[RunToEarth]

Oh yes, agree with MFH_09, I like breastplates too. I don't like boots out hunting but I do think they have a place on some days- TBH only you know your horse, and whether he really needs them, often if he doesn't they can only hinder.

 

[harleyandjasmine]

for my first time out on jasmine i wore pull on overeach boots and brushing boots on all 4 legs
my view is that its better to be safe then sorry on your first meet at least then you know if you need them

 

[Starbucks]

Thing is with brushing boots - what do they actually protect from?? They are meant to protect from brushing, so if your horse brushes then use them, if not don't!

Same for over reach boots - it's just the same as normal jumping.

If you are worried about tendons etc. then I'd invest in something a bit more supportive.... only my opinion though and my horse doesn't wear boots so i'm a bit clueless!

Breastplates are good and make sure you have something to stop him in bit wise!

Good luck!! have fun! :grin:

 

[molehill]

I dont like boots for hunting as mud tends to get in under neath them and causes rubs.
As for staying at the back,i think you may be asking for trouble.I would advise putting a green ribbon on your horses tail,so everyone knows its a young horse,and put him in the middle of everyone.My experience of hunting youngsters/horses new to hunting is that if you keep them at the back they are more likely to play up.

 

[Cadaran]

Thanks everyone for your useful and helpful advice.
Regards