VMD 511: Animal Welfare, Ethics and Jurisprudence (2+0)

HANDLE YOUNG LEGS WITH CARE

Young horses have bones that are still growing and developing, so it’s important that you don’t work them too hard at an early age. If a youngster is lunged on hard ground or galloped too much he may develop arthritis later on. You may also damage his delicate tendons and muscles.

If you back a horse at two, stick to slower speeds and don’t do too much with him until he’s a bit older. Many sport horse people start horses under saddle when they turn three. And it’s not a great idea to jump a horse until he’s at least four because you can put too much stress on his young bones