10/20/08 Layoffs aren't just for people

It used to be when the weather got colder it signified a break in the rigors of training horses but today, due not only to the proximity of indoor arenas but the fact more riders head south for the winter many horses are kept in training year round. What is best for the working horse? I'm Jeff Keane after this quick break we'll share some information on the benefit of layoffs. With today's economic climate layoffs are a dirty, word except when it comes to performance horses. Then it's a good thing, why is that Susan? Despite the fact you want to perfect that sliding stop or heel loop, your horse, like you, needs time off from its job. Veterinarians like Wendy A. Schofield who was recently interviewed for Horses Incorporated and who specializes in sport horse medicine will tell you that horses under constant stress whether it be in training, traveling or showing are more at risk for gastric ulcers, colic, injury, fatigue and poor performance. A lay off period, a short break two to three week break or even cutting training back to one or two days a week can help immensely. And the younger the horse the longer the break should be. In a perfect world every horse would get two to three months off. Remember that these horses still need exercise, ideally pasture time, but even changing the riding routine can help keep horses mentally fresh. Don't layoff your employees, lay off your horse! I'm Jeff Keane.