02/18/08 Spring fever and competition

February 19 2008 Spring Fever and Competition For many horse owner's spring marks the start of the competitive season but are your horses ready to compete? I'm Jeff Keane and I will be back after the break with some tips on preparing the performance horse. Whether you rope, rein, cut or event the importance of a fit horse can't be over emphasized. Here's Susan. That's right Jeff; spring fever has caused many a horse owner to push an out of shape animal too hard often with serious consequences. Those looking towards a competition packed season would be wise to schedule a spring physical for their horses (along with routine shots and worming) to discuss any limits their animals might have with their vet. Time invested in conditioning is well spent and many forget that includes the warm up. Jeff, I can't count the weekends I've watched team ropers unload the horse and hit the arena at a hard run. Loosening muscles tight from trailer or stall confinement is so important , imagine if I made you to hop out of the rig and run full speed! ! It wouldn't be a pretty picture. Besides I don't do full speed! They tried to make me run a mile in college to get in shape for rodeo season. I thought that was why I had a horse. I'll play basketball and workout to get in shape , but I just can't run a mile. Seriously though, getting yourself and your horse in shape is a good idea. I'm Jeff Keane.