Leaving the ride

["Carlos F. Crespo" <ccrespo@nigma.com>]

Living in Southern Florida requires that we trailer long hours to any ride.
Our closest ride is 5 hours away and our farthest is 19 driving hours away.
Consequently we usually are required to make at least one overnight stay
along the way to a ride.

Five years ago, on the way to ride my friend and I set camp for the night
by a hotel in Georgia. That night his  horse got into some weeds and
started to colic. Luckily, him being a Vet, he treated the horse and
everything was fine later that evening. That caused an impression with me
as I wonder what would I have done if I had been alone. From this and other
experiences I have formulated the Endurance Certainty Principle... YOU WILL
NEVER FIND A VET OR A FARRIER WHEN YOU REALLY NEED ONE.

I believe that all endurance riders should learn some basic equine first
aid, know how to give injections (IM and IV), bandage a cut and in general
deal with an emergency until expert help can be found. Because horses are
so peculiar and their needs  so unique, I have found that , in an emergency
in remote areas, you may be able to find a Vet to help you but he may not
be set-up to handle horses. I make it a point to always travel with an
entire box of lactated ringers and at least 2 IV Kits. I also carry
Banamine as a first line of defense in case of a Colic until help can be
found, electrolytes and water. Luckily I have never had to use either but
it is reassuring to know it is there if needed.

Further, I believe that it is imperative to know how to remove and/or  nail
a horse shoe.  This is a simple procedure that can make all the difference
during a trail ride or an endurance event. Just this past weekend we camped
100 miles away from home for a training ride. My son's horse lost a shoe
and mine had one come loose. They were just shod 8 days ago but, it
happens. Had I not been able to take care of the situation it would have
been a lost weekend (and a beautiful one it was, 70 degrees , sunny and dry
with a light breeze). I also make sure that I always travel with a full set
of farrier tools. 

You don't have to be a VET or a Farrier to do these things and it can make
all the difference. Take the time to ask your Vet and your Farrier what to
do in an emergency and to teach you how to do it. I have always found both
very willing to cooperate and it will do wonders for your peace of mind and
enjoyment of the sport.

Happy Trails,

Carlos
Florida