A racehorse is a valuable asset for breeders and owners. Investing in a racehorse is a big decision that requires endless considerations. A $50,000 racehorse would look great on your asset portfolio, but what about the downsides? Unfortunately, there are cons to owning such a valuable animal. One downside is the risk of injury. Something as simple as a bump could result in disqualification. The primary priority when owning a racehorse is injury minimization. Is it possible? Absolutely, with the proper tools, your racehorse will be good to go for every competition. Learn more by reading the content provided in the article below.
Polo Wrap – Minimize Bowed Tendon Injury
A polo wrap is a type of protection for the racehorse’s leg. The method utilizes a flexible material, such as fleece to wrap around a racehorse’s legs. The primary purpose of a polo wrap is to protect the legs during racehorse training. With this said, a polo wrap is only as good as the placement. The improper placement could result in too much pressure on the superficial flexor tendon, suspensory ligament, and extensor tendon.
The polo wrap is a great alternative to the neoprene horse boot. Some racehorse breeds are hypersensitive to the neoprene material found in horse boots. Neoprene is a type of synthetic material that acts as an allergen trigger for some racehorses. While neoprene has some very important benefits, it is a common allergen for some racehorses. If hives, itching, edema, and redness are noted at the sight, it is important to take immediate action. A fleece polo wrap combined with an appropriate allergy treatment should ease the symptoms and offer protection when needed.
To ensure your racehorse crosses the finish line first, she must start with a clean bill of health. Even a minor injury can alter the outcome of the horserace. Avid investors are only interested in healthy racehorses. If not, they will turn to สล็อตไม่ผ่านเอเย่นต์, where the odds of winning are better.
Splint Boot – Minimize Split Bone Injury
Horses are prone to splint bone injuries, which are more commonly related to excessive training. Racehorses undergo extensive training between races. A splint is an inflammatory condition that generally occurs in the racehorse’s forelimbs. Unfortunately for the horse, the splint bones are thinly tapered, making them prone to moderate and severe injuries.
A very important ligament is situated between the splint bones and the cannon bone. In foals, weanlings, and yearlings, the ligament is somewhat elastic. As the young horse matures, the ligament will begin to ossify (replaced by bone). The process, known as ossification results in the cannon bone and two split bones becoming fused. Young racehorses between 2 and 5 years of age exhibit pain and inflammation during the ossification process. Working the young horses can generate further irritation.
The key to protecting the splint bone is proper positioning of the splint boot. Place the boot against the racehorse’s leg and gradually slide down to force the hair into a flat position. Be careful to not overtighten the boot to ensure good blood flow throughout the lower extremity.
Fetlock Boot – Minimize Fetlock Injury
Racehorses, mules, and other quadrupeds have a joint located between the pastern and cannon bone. Fetlock injuries are more commonly reported in the hind legs, not the forelegs. When a racehorse hyperextends the joint between the cannon bone and pastern, it can result in a fetlock injury. Repetitive motion is also linked to fetlock injuries.
To protect your racehorse from such injuries, utilizing fetlock boots are key. Fetlock boots are designed from quality leather or alternative synthetic material, with a sheepskin lining. While the fetlock boot is a great tool for protecting a racehorse’s hind legs, they are only effective with proper placement.
The fetlock boot is designed with buckles that have the tendency to catch onto the racehorse’s tail and other objects. They can also catch each other if the buckles are facing. Make sure the buckles are facing outward, not inward. Another alternative is a fetlock boot, with a Velcro fastener. Some owners prefer this design because the Velcro fasteners are less likely to get caught in the racehorse’s tail or other items.
Summary
Racehorses undergo extensive training in preparation for competitions. Utilizing the tools above will reduce your racehorse’s risk of leg injuries.
