Re: wide gait in hind end

[Chaco L <ChacoL@aol.com>]

In a message dated 98-01-20 08:15:10 EST, wood.cameron@acd.net writes:

>  I've always been taught that
>  straight movement is best, and any other way of going causes strain on
>  tendons, joints & muscles. 

It has always been my impression (and would like to hear confirming/opposing
views) that horses traveling at a fast trot or climbing a steep hill will
widen the placement of their hind feet to avoid overreaching and striking the
front feet/legs.  It is not a conformational thing.  And I've also been
taught, as Shannon says, that this way of going is hard on the tendons and
ligaments especially and should be avoided.

Linda
San Francisco