In a message dated 2/11/2005 12:59:13 P.M. Mountain Standard Time,
neyska@xxxxxxxxxxx writes:
My
question is, have other horses performed well with this kind of a
conformation issue? I don't expect that he will ever do much more
than 50 since my husband is not as 'in to' riding as I am, but I would
like to have him be able to some 50s with my arab and
I.
Hi Nikki,
The number of horses who have "performed well" with
conformational deviations of one kind or another are quite numerous.
Recognizing what cost the "deviation" might engender and
"managing" it from the beginning is key.
What you are describing is a biomechanical manifestation
of a conformational deviation.
So, realize that the greater number of miles one does
with a horse who evinces a biomechanical abnormality due to said conformation,
the more that horse will begin to show the wear and tear associated with doing
this sport. The typical result of a gait deviation is slight ringbone, or
ossification in other areas of the hoof. If the horse does a couple of
thousand of "competitive" miles, the ringbone will be more pronounced.
Proper trimming or shoeing is integral in keeping this
horse sound and on the trail. (But, of course, that's true of all
horses.)
NOTE: In my opinion, there
is no reason why a horse with a biomechanical deviation of this sort, cannot do
fifty's and remain sound. It would only (typically) become an issue if you
were to do a significant number of miles of competitive endurance riding.
"Significant" mileage (IMO) would be more than a couple of fifty's a
month.
You asked, that's my opinion.
I wish you, your husband and your horses the very
best.
Have fun and don't sweat what "might"
happen...recognize your strengths, minimizing the weaknesses, and it'll be
okay.
