Wiki Horse

The program lasts approx. 20 minutes.

Through the massage, vibration and relaxation, the use of the back muscles stimulates blood circulation without any compulsion. This leads to the necessary supply of oxygen and the removal of waste products. Only with optimal care is the muscle able to make new muscle fibers and increase in size visibly.
This alternation of massage forms has, what has been very importantly reflected in the extensive testing, an important synergy effect as a result.

The horse finds it nice, comforting and relaxing. Use the warm-up while grooming to loosen up the back. No tight back when mounting the horse, but an already relaxed and working horseback during the solution phase.

It can be used every day, for example for riding and / or after riding, but also during an (injury) break it is also very nice to keep the back muscles in shape.

Quick assistance with problems of tendons and ligaments. A varied pressure / massage phase with a relaxation phase. The pressure can be regulated. The air cushions in the boots can also be flexibly adjusted and optionally attached next to the tendons or the fetlock head. A cooling pad can be inserted in front of the air cushions and fixed using a Velcro pocket.

The Cool + Press Boot combines regulated cooling and pulsating massage, which are both universally accepted therapeutic procedures. It can be used when the horse is standing still, and when it is moving. It does not require plugging in while in use due to its efficient and powerful battery! It enables fast, effective treatment of the aches, pains and strains that can occur during training and in competition. In addition, it provides prophylactic physiotherapy. It allows alternating heat treatment and cooling pain relief, which makes it especially suitable for the treatment of injured tendons, tendon sheaths and suspensory ligaments. Other therapeutic applications include: the treatment of swollen legs (inactivity edemas) and acute traumas. Because of its compact design and remarkable portability, Cool + Press Boot can be used in a variety of settings instead of complicated and cost-intensive technologies such as water baths and cooling-compressor treatment systems.

20 minutes

Laminitis is a painful and serious condition in horses where inflammation occurs in the lamellae of the hoof. The lamellae are small structures in the hoof that connect the hoof wall to the coffin bone.

In laminitis, the blood supply to the lamellae is disrupted, which can damage the lamellae and detach from the coffin bone. This can lead to very serious complications, such as prolapse of the coffin bone and even total rotation.

Laminitis can have various causes, such as obesity, nutritional errors, infections, stress, medications, and certain diseases such as EMS (Equine Metabolic Syndrome) and PPID (Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction, also called Cushing's disease).

The symptoms of laminitis include:

Lameness or stiffness in the front or back legs
Warm hooves
Decreased appetite
Changes in the position of the legs or the horse's posture
Rapid, shallow breathing
Laminitis is a serious condition that requires immediate veterinary treatment. It is important to avoid risk factors and provide regular hoof care to reduce the risk of laminitis.

As a horse owner, you want to make sure that your horse gets enough exercise and stays in top condition. A treadmill for horses can be a useful tool for this. Everything you need to know about treadmills for horses, including the benefits, use and safety guidelines is below in the text.

What is a treadmill for horses?
A horse treadmill is a machine designed to allow horses to walk without moving them. It consists of a platform that can be adjusted to the size of the horse and a treadmill on which the horse can walk. There are several types of treadmills available, including flat and incline treadmills.

Benefits of a treadmill for horses
A treadmill can provide several benefits for horses. For example, it can provide regular exercise and muscle building, improved fitness and endurance, and it can also help with the rehabilitation of injuries. In addition, a treadmill can reduce the rider's workload by keeping the horse in top condition, even when the weather isn't ideal for riding outdoors.

How do you use a treadmill for horses?
It is important to use the treadmill correctly to ensure your horse stays safe and gets the most out of its benefits. Here are some guidelines:

Start with a short time and build up slowly. Do not allow the horse to walk on the treadmill for more than 30 minutes per day.
Make sure the horse can safely step onto the treadmill and that there is enough space between the horse's chest and the front of the treadmill.
Always supervise the horse while it is walking on the treadmill.
Make sure the treadmill is set to the correct speed and that the horse is walking comfortably.
Safety guidelines for using a treadmill for horses
To ensure that the horse remains safe while using a treadmill, here are some safety guidelines:

Only allow healthy horses to run on the treadmill and avoid using the treadmill on injured or sick horses.
Make sure the floor around the treadmill is non-slip and free of obstacles.
Check the horse regularly for signs of fatigue or overheating.
Always use protective clothing, such as gloves, and hold the horse's hair to prevent it from getting caught in the machine.
Conclusion

A horse treadmill can be a useful tool for horse owners to give their horses regular exercise.

A horse solarium is a specially designed device to help horses dry and warm up after heavy training or during cold weather. It is an investment that quickly pays off because a horse solarium offers numerous benefits.

Improved Health and Well-being of Horses
Horses are sensitive animals and are susceptible to muscle soreness and other ailments after heavy training or during cold weather. A horse solarium helps to warm up the horse's muscles, reducing the risk of injury and muscle soreness. Additionally, the warmth from the solarium improves the horse's blood circulation, speeding up the recovery process and promoting the horse's overall well-being.

Increased Performance of Horses
A horse that is well warmed up will perform better. A horse solarium helps to warm up the muscles, making the horse better able to perform. This is especially important for horses that participate in competitions and other events where high performance is required.

Improved Hygiene and Health in the Stable
A horse solarium can help to reduce bacteria and fungi in the stable. It dries the horse off after showering, reducing the chance of fungal and other infections. It can also help to dry wet blankets and saddles, reducing the chance of mold growth on these items.

Savings on Heating Costs
A horse solarium can also help to save on heating costs. When horses are warmed up with a solarium, the stable needs less heating, which can result in lower energy costs.

Increased Relaxation of Horses
Horses can become stressed after heavy training or during cold weather. A horse solarium can help to relax the horse, as it warms up the muscles and improves blood circulation. This will make the horse feel more comfortable and relaxed.

Increased Drying Time of Horses
A horse solarium can help to shorten the drying time of horses after showering. This is especially useful during cold weather, as the horse would otherwise remain wet for a longer period of time. The warmth from the solarium helps to dry the horse off more quickly, reducing the chance of infections.

In summary, a horse solarium offers numerous benefits for horses and their owners. It promotes the health and well-being of horses, improves their performance and relaxation, and also saves on heating costs.

Introduction:
A crucial aspect of horse care is choosing the right ground surface for a horse exerciser. Various ground materials offer diverse benefits and must be carefully considered to ensure the well-being of the horses. This article discusses different ground options, ranging from natural sand surfaces to modern artificial grass alternatives.

1. Sand Surface
A commonly used choice for horse exercisers is a sand surface. Sand provides natural cushioning and is gentle on the horses' joints. Regular leveling and replenishing are necessary to maintain the quality of the surface.

2. Rubber Tiles
Rubber tiles are renowned for their excellent shock absorption. They are durable, easy to clean, and provide a comfortable surface for horses. While the initial costs might be higher, rubber tiles are an investment in the safety and health of the animals.

3. Artificial Grass
Artificial grass is a modern and sustainable option for horse exercisers. It offers good grip and drainage throughout the year, which is especially beneficial in varying weather conditions. Although it can be expensive, artificial grass minimizes the risk of injuries and requires minimal maintenance.

4. Geotextile Mats
Geotextile mats are often placed on top of existing surfaces to improve stability and cushioning. Choosing this option requires ensuring that they conduct electricity well to maintain safety and proper drainage to prevent muddy conditions.

5. Wood Chips
Wood chips provide some cushioning and are a cost-effective temporary solution. However, they require regular maintenance as they can sink and become muddy in wet conditions. Wood chips are best suited for drier climates.

6. Plastic grid
Plastic grid is an innovative ground option consisting of plastic grid panels filled with sand, gravel, or grass. These panels offer stability, cushioning, and drainage. However, a potential drawback is that due to horses repeatedly walking the same path, the edges of the panels may lift. Regular maintenance and monitoring are necessary to prevent this issue and ensure a safe training environment for the horses.

7. Paving
Another possible ground option for horse exercisers is paving. Paving with materials such as stones or bricks provides a flat and stable surface for horses to walk on. Paving is easy to clean and requires minimal maintenance. It prevents muddy conditions, especially in rainy climates. However, the lack of natural cushioning can increase impact on the horses' joints. To address this, providing sufficient cushioning, such as a layer of sand approximately 5 cm deep or other shock-absorbing materials, is essential to guarantee the comfort and safety of the horses.

Conclusion:
When selecting the right ground surface for a horse exerciser, factors such as cushioning, drainage, durability, and budget must be taken into account. Consulting with a horse ground expert or a veterinarian is recommended to make the optimal choice, ensuring that horses can train and move in a safe and comfortable environment.

This Wiki article provides an overview of various ground options for horse exercisers, highlighting the specific benefits and considerations of each option. It is crucial to consult with experts to choose the most suitable ground surface tailored to the specific needs of the horses.

The photoperiod, or the duration of daylight and darkness in a day, significantly impacts the lives of horses. These sensitive animals rely heavily on natural light cycles for their behavior, health, and well-being.

For horses, the photoperiod plays a key role in their physiological processes. It regulates their daily routines such as eating, resting, and activity. More importantly, it affects their reproductive behavior. For instance, mares need a specific photoperiod to come into heat during the appropriate season.

During the shorter days of winter, horses adjust their behavior. They might spend more time indoors and might require additional lighting to ensure they receive sufficient light for their daily activities. Lack of natural light during winter months can cause similar symptoms in horses as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in humans, such as lethargy and decreased alertness.

Horse owners and caretakers need to be aware of the changing photoperiod and may need to take measures to ensure their horses receive adequate light, especially during the darker seasons. Understanding the photoperiod in horses is crucial to safeguard their well-being and help them thrive regardless of the season.

The Rhythm of Nature: The Wonders of the Circadian Rhythm

In the seemingly endless cycle of day and night, the circadian rhythm plays a crucial role in the lives of all living beings on Earth. This natural rhythm, lasting about 24 hours, not only regulates our sleep-wake pattern but also influences our mood, energy levels, and even our health. In this blog, we will delve into the fascinating phenomenon of the circadian rhythm and explore the amazing ways it impacts our daily lives.

The circadian rhythm is like an internal clock found in almost all living organisms, from plants and animals to humans. This clock synchronizes with the external environment, particularly with daylight and darkness. When the sun rises, we wake up, feeling energetic and alert, and when the sun sets, our body prepares for rest and restoration.

One of the key components of the circadian rhythm is melatonin, a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain. Melatonin is also known as the 'sleep hormone' because it helps us fall asleep and experience deep, restorative sleep. It is primarily produced when it is dark, and its levels decrease when there is light.

Apart from regulating our sleep patterns, the circadian rhythm also influences other aspects of our health. It affects our metabolism, immune function, and even our ability to cope with stress. When our circadian rhythm is disrupted, such as by irregular sleep patterns or exposure to artificial light at night, it can lead to sleep problems, fatigue, and even more severe health issues in the long run.

To keep our circadian rhythm in balance, it is important to maintain regular sleep patterns and promote exposure to natural light during the day. Spending enough time outdoors and reducing artificial light in the evening can support our natural rhythm and help us lead a healthier, more balanced life.

The circadian rhythm reminds us that as living beings, we are deeply connected to the natural world around us. By paying attention to our sleep patterns and respecting our circadian rhythm, we can not only sleep better but also enjoy better health and well-being in our daily lives. So, let's heed the wisdom of our internal clock and let ourselves be guided by the rhythm of nature.

With horses the conversion of sunlight into vitamin D occurs in the skin. The process is explained step by step below:

Ultraviolet radiation (UVB): When a horse is exposed to sunlight, particularly the UVB radiation from the sun, the vitamin D synthesis process begins. UVB rays are essential to initiate the conversion of a precursor of vitamin D into active vitamin D.

7-dehydrocholesterol: In the horse's skin, there is a precursor of vitamin D called 7-dehydrocholesterol. Under the influence of UVB rays, this substance undergoes a chemical reaction and is converted into previtamin D3.

Vitamin D3: Subsequently, previtamin D3 is rapidly converted into vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) by the warmth of the sun.

Liver and kidneys: After vitamin D3 is produced in the skin, it is transported to the liver, where it is converted into calcidiol. It is then transported to the kidneys, where it is ultimately converted into the biologically active form of vitamin D, calcitriol.

Calcitriol: Calcitriol is the active form of vitamin D and plays a crucial role in regulating calcium and phosphorus balance in the body. It aids in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the intestines, ensuring proper bone formation and maintenance.

It's important to note that the degree of vitamin D production in horses depends on various factors, including sunlight intensity, exposure duration, coat type (light coats allow more UVB rays than dark coats), and geographical location. In areas where horses receive limited sunlight, supplementation with vitamin D through dietary supplements may be necessary.

Mimicking sunlight with UV lamps for horses can be complex, as natural sunlight consists not only of UVB rays but also other wavelengths. Additionally, the exact amount of UVB radiation required for vitamin D synthesis depends on factors such as lamp intensity, distance from the horse, and exposure duration. Here are some general guidelines:

Type of lamp: Use UVB lamps designed for reptiles or specifically for promoting vitamin D synthesis in animals. Ensure that the lamps emit the correct spectrum of UVB rays.

Intensity and distance: UVB radiation intensity decreases as you move farther away from the lamp. The horse should be within the range of effective radiation. Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the recommended distance between the horse and the lamp.

Duration of exposure: The duration of exposure to UVB lamps may vary. It's essential to start slowly and gradually increase exposure to prevent the horse from getting burned.

Monitoring: Observe the horse's behavior and skin during lamp exposure. If the horse shows signs of discomfort or if the skin becomes red, exposure to UVB lamps may need to be reduced.

It's crucial to understand that using UV lamps to stimulate vitamin D synthesis is not a perfect substitute for natural sunlight. Horses have different needs than reptiles, which often bask directly in sunlight in their natural environment.

Always consult a veterinarian before deciding to use UV lamps to ensure that you are using the correct lamps and that the horse is safely exposed to UVB radiation.