THE HORSE'S MOVEMENT
When observing a horse’s movement you will need someone to lead the horse.
It should be done on a level firm surface with no stones, in an area large enough to see the horse coming towards, past and away from you, in a straight line.
The leader should walk towards you past you and away from you (you should move out of the way so the horse can keep straight).
This should be repeated, turning in the opposite direction each time.
When you have observed enough then the leader should turn and, once straight, trot towards, past and away from you. Make sure they are back to walk before turning again. This should be repeated as many times as necessary for you.
THE LEADER SHOULD-
Make sure the horse is active.
Keep in a straight line.
When turning, which should be observed in both directions, keep to the outside of the turn so movement can be observed easily and they do not get trodden on.
Keep a loose rein so head movement can be observed.
LEG MOVEMENT
When observing the horse should:
A- Be straight in movement in front and behind.
B- Flex all the joints equally on both sides.
C- Not drag their toes on the floor, but pick them up with energy.
D- Bring his hind leg forward and under on the turn, shuffling or a backward step is a good indication of an issue.
MOVEMENT FAULTS
I must take this oppertunity to apologise for my drawings. I will definitely never make an artist, and any horse who has legs like I have drawn has definitely got issues!!
bRUSHING
This is when the horse knocks one foot on to the other leg.
Damage can be prevented by wearing brushing boots.
Overreaching
This is when the hind leg strikes the back of the front leg.
Damage can be prevented to a certain extent by using over reach boots.
FORGING
This is when the hind leg strikes the underside of the front foot and generally makes a clipping sound.
It can be reduced by the blacksmith cutting back the toe of the hind foot, and by making sure the horse is not pushed faster than his natural gait.
PLAITING
This is when the front legs cross in front of each other, not necessarily injuring themselves but often brushing.
DISHING
This occurs in the front legs when the horse bends its knee the hoof appears to stick out to the side.
Final Thoughts
It is important to know how your horse moves so you can be aware of any problems that could occur.
With many movement issues, provided they do not cause actual injury, horses can live with them and have no problems as a result.
It is worth considering though, that any mis-alignment causes pressure and strain all the way up the leg and, as the horse’s legs have to carry so much weight, this is not desirable.
These faults could cause sprains and strains and issues, such as arthritis, at a later date.