Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Caring For Your Horse in Winter - Pat Holl Equine Chiropractor in Billings Montana Animal Chiropractor


Well, it’s just about winter, and when it’s cold to us, it’s cold to our horses. Though horses adapt incredibly well to winter and grow ‘winter coats’ for added protection and insulation against the elements, we still need to ensure that they are adequately prepared and fortified throughout the winter months. If you keep your horse in a stall or barn, always be sure that the bedding is clean and changed regularly. Be sure there is good ventilation, as this is vital for your horse’s respiration, however be aware of ‘drafty’ areas, particularly in frosty temps. If you winter your horse outdoors, be sure to provide a wind block. Most horses accustomed to being outdoors adapt and will grow long, warm coats which retain body heat for insulation, but a frigid wind can penetrate most things. Additionally, rain and ‘wet cold’ can be challenging to withstand. You may want to consider blanketing your horse. Blankets are particularly helpful for the older horse, or perhaps one that is injured and cannot run around freely. There are many wonderful types of blankets, ranging from lightweight to heavy, depending on the need, and there are numerous resources online delineating these distinctions. If you ride your horse throughout the winter, remember these tips: Always prepare your horse by warming up, particularly a horse that has been corralled for any length of time. As with us, freezing temps can injure improperly prepared tissues. A comprehensive grooming will warm the muscles, tendons and ligaments by promoting circulation. Also, don’t neglect your horse’s hooves. Packed snow and ice buildup in the hoof can be treacherous, particularly in terrain that might also be snowy or icy. Warm the bit and tack before use. Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, remember to check the water in your horse’s watering areas. Automatic heating waterers are great if you have them, but if not, try insulated buckets. These are just a few of the reminders that will help provide your horse with the love and care they deserve, even when ‘Old Man Winter’ is in town! Have a comment? Join in, and stay warm!

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Chiropractic Maintenance and Preventative Care - Pat Holl Animal Chiropractor Billings Montana Equine Canine Chiropractic


Hi guys. Been busy these days, but thought I'd send out a reminder on the benefits of preventative care and consistent chiropractic maintenance.  You know that regular chiropractic management can not only help the body heal, but also facilitates a healthier, stronger and more resilient patient. Well here are some other benefits to think about: chiropractic care can increase circulation and help eliminate lactic acid. It increases delivery of oxygen and nutrient supply, helps reduce muscle spasms and adhesions, increases flexibility and can improve overall health. Additionally, chiropractic care can address the micro injuries resulting from everyday stress, assisting recovery and enhancing overall quality of life. And what goes for us, goes for our pets. So, a little maintenance and prevention can make a big difference, and regular chiropractic care can markedly improve your life! Have a comment? Join the conversation!

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Brain Health - Patricia Holl Animal Chiropractor in Billings Montana Equine Canine


Hi all! I know it’s been a few weeks since you’ve heard from me, but I’ve been busy. Most recently, I was attending an advanced ‘Functional Neurology’ course in Milwaukee, exercising my brain. That’s right, my brain! In order for our brains to perform optimally, they require a regular fitness program, just like the rest of our bodies. Our brains function most efficiently when they are in a balanced state. This includes a balance between neurotransmitters like Glutamate and GABA, balanced calcium ions and cellular stability. As we age, some of our brains’ processes can become less active, resulting in loss of memory function and mental disorganization. So, here are a few things we can do to maintain optimal brain fitness:

1.      EXERCISE. According to Harvard Psychiatry Professor John Ratey, author of  Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and The Brain, ‘nothing beats exercise for promoting brain health’.

2.      DIET and NUTRITION: James Joseph, neuroscientist at the Agricultural Research Service writes: ‘vitamins and minerals in plant foods provide protective antioxidants, but fruits vegetables, nuts, seeds and grains contain thousands of other types of compounds that contribute significantly to the overall dietary intake of antioxidants.’ Antioxidants help to provide energy for brain cell activity. And avoid smoking and excessive alcohol intake, as toxins can build up and break down cellular integrity.

3.      KEEP YOUR MIND SHARP: Read, learn a new language or learn to play a musical instrument. Increased focus can improve brain fitness by promoting concentration, alertness and blood flow to the brain.
 
So, when you’re thinking about your fitness, don’t forget about your brain. After that 'Crossfit' workout, go home, eat a balanced meal, and read an article or a book. Start those piano lessons you've been thinking about. Learn a new song. Oh, and by the way, what goes for us, goes for our pets. Make sure their diet is high in nutrient supply and they have plenty of clean water. Maintaining a strong, dependable and healthy brain will ensure years of productivity and health! Have a comment? Join the conversation.

Saturday, September 7, 2013

The Importance of Water - Pat Holl Animal Chiropractor in Montana


Let’s face it, water is vital to your health. It is the main component of the human body, and every cell requires it. Water assists metabolism and helps remove toxins, particularly from the digestive tract. It cushions and lubes joints and muscles, and transports nutrients and oxygen into cells. It regulates body temperature, and reduces risk of disease and infection. Researchers at Loma Linda University in California found that people who drank more than 5 glasses of water a day were less likely to die from a heart attack or heart disease. When your body becomes dehydrated, harmful effects can ensue. Chronic cellular dehydration leaves the body in a weakened state, leading to vulnerability and imbalances. These may include fatigue, migraines, muscle cramps, dry skin, exhaustion and poor metabolism. Benefits of drinking water include losing weight, as drinking water reduces hunger. Additionally, thirst can be mistaken for hunger, so it might be a glass of water your body is craving, rather than that afternoon snack. Water is a natural remedy for headache pain, as dehydration is a common headache contributor. It relieves fatigue, as your body works harder when dehydrated to pump out the oxygenated blood to cells, Also some studies show that drinking appropriate amounts of water may reduce the risks of bladder and colon cancer by diluting the concentration of cancer-causing agents in the urine and shortening contact time. And how much water should we be drinking? 8 glasses a day? AT LEAST! Try half your body weight in ounces! You can’t have too much water. It is the single most important element for cellular integrity. Oh, and what goes for us, goes for our pets, but they tend to be smarter than us regarding water. Just leave them plenty of clean water, and they’ll be sure to drink it. Have a comment? Join in!

Thursday, August 22, 2013

'Hunter's Bump' in Horses - Pat Holl Animal Chiropractor Equine Chiropractor Canine Chiropractor Billings Montana

Named after the sport which instigates the condition, “hunter’s bump”, also know as ‘jumper’s bump’ is a painful pelvic condition in your horse that may cause gait abnormalities and can affect performance. It most often occurs in jumping horses, hunters, and steeplechasers. A ‘Hunter’s Bump’ is a protrusion of the tuber sacrale. This is the area of the hip that will appear elevated along the lower part of your horse’s back, just above the croup. Technically, this is a subluxation of the sacroiliac joint, which may involve injury to the ligaments securing the pelvis and the spine. Once this happens, the ilium (one side of the pelvis) can shift out of place, resulting in the distinguishing ‘bump’. This uneven hip is sometimes referred to as a ‘dropped’ hip

This injury is commonly the result of previous and repetitive trauma to the sacroiliac joint, rather than a single precipitating incident, though it is usually one event that pushes it over the edge. Best viewed from behind during gait, your horse will tend to be very stiff in the hindquarters, ‘unload’ weight on the affected side, display a shortened stride on the affected hind limb, and may resist movement in general. Symptoms may also manifest in areas far from the affected area. Your horse may display altered neck movements, and oppose turning in one direction or another. There may be evidence of pain at the poll, as well as resistance to take the bit, or even wear a halter.

When diagnosed early, treatment for a ‘hunter’s bump’ can be highly effective. Stall-rest for several weeks is indicated to allow time for the ligaments to heal and scarring to occur to provide stability. Anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxants are often prescribed by your veterinarian to reduce spasm and manage inflammatory processes.  Chiropractic management can help re-align the pelvis and relieve neurologic interference. Additionally, integrative treatments including acupuncture and massage can be highly effective in controlling pain and supporting the healing process.

Recovery will depend on accurate diagnosis, degree of injury and speed and quality of treatment. Remember the importance of proper conditioning, weight management and stable footing. Above all, become familiar with your horse. Learn their behaviors, and observe when they’re communicating that something’s wrong. If you suspect something is amiss, don’t delay. Help is available. Have a comment? Join the conversation!

Thursday, August 1, 2013

'Get Moving' Patricia Holl Chiropractor Billings Montana Equine Canine Chiropractor Billings Montana


Movement is fundamental, and a necessary aspect of life. When we move our bodies, we affect everything, from circulation to digestion to metabolism. Through movement, our bodies regulate hormone activity, detoxify, and respire. Daily movement promotes chemical changes in the body and fires up neural pathways, which stimulate the body’s healing capacity and boost immunity to ward off disease.

When joints move, muscles expand and contract. The systems in our bodies rely on this movement to function. For example, the lymphatic system relies on the contraction and expansion of our skeletal muscle, so it can circulate and pump toxins out of our bodies.

Movement disciplines have been prevalent in eastern societies for thousands of years, and practices such as yoga and t’ai chi have gradually permeated into the western world. What was once taught principally for spiritual customs has evolved into healing instruction and therapy. Movement is more than just exercise or physical exertion, and though it requires action, it does not necessarily require strenuous effort.

Stretching is a form of movement which can improve the body’s defenses by making it more adaptable to stress. Maintaining good posture is another form of movement. When we are standing or walking, the processes throughout our bodies are hard at work. And while the musculoskeletal system is the most observable recipient of healthy posture, the additional benefits of appropriate posture can impact lung functioning, heart health and even energy levels.

Society no longer requires excessive movement for everyday tasks and activities. As a result, our very design is changing. It has become normal to expect that when we reach a certain age we will experience conditions such as arthritis and osteoporosis. Even chronic pain has become something to “expect” as we age, not something we can avoid and prevent.

Our systems were built on movement and motion. We move to dress ourselves, to eat, and to work. However today’s culture promotes sedentary lifestyles. Methods of communication including computers, televisions and cell phones encourage a lack of physical movement. Activities such as cutting grass, raking leaves and shoveling snow have been replaced with electric lawn equipment and snow blowers. Our bodies are becoming inert. Consequently, the health of our bone and tissue declines, circulation becomes sluggish, systems break down, and overall wellness deteriorates.

So it’s time to move again. Take a walk. Use the stairs. Ride your bike to work. Ask yourself if change is needed, and if so, get going. Discover what moves you! Have a comment? Join the conversation!

Thursday, July 25, 2013

Subluxation in the Horse or Dog - Pat Holl Equine Canine Chiropractor in Billings Montana


 

 
A ‘vertebral subluxation’ refers to a loss of normal positioning and motioning of the bones of the spine. When this happens, simultaneous neurologic, mechanical, biochemical and physiologic changes occur throughout the spine and body, and combine to contribute to what chiropractors refer to as the ‘Vertebral Subluxation Complex’. A ‘VSC’ in the spine can result in muscle spasms, nerve irritation, inflammation, adhesions, and of course, pain. As this happens in humans, it also happens in our pets. Pain behaviors in your animal will depend on the severity and duration of compromise, however common observable changes in your dog may include stiff motion, inability to be weight-bearing, reluctance to rise, agitation, ‘puppy-sitting’, whimpering and changes in appetite. Equine pain behaviors may include changes in gait, reluctance to move or be handled, flared nostrils, muscle tremors and ear-pinning, among others. Chiropractic care can help restore function and mobility and improve muscle tone. Additionally, chiropractic treatment helps to break down adhesive tissue and assists the nervous system in coordinating the body’s ability to heal and regulate itself, thus helping the body perform at its highest potential. So remember the importance of chiropractic care when considering overall health, both for you and your pet!

Thursday, July 11, 2013

The Importance of Neurology in Your Pet - Patricia Holl Animal Chiropractor in Billings Montana Horse Chiropractor Dog Chiropractor


Hi all! It's been awhile, but I've been busy, ensconced in continuing education in none other than...Neurology! Yes, Neurology. Neurology is at the root of all health conditions, and this extends to our 4-legged friends. As animal chiropractors, we understand the importance of having a healthy functioning nervous system. We also understand that animals act instinctively for survival, so it's not uncommon for a horse or dog with neurological problems to present with multiple behavioral, cognitive and gait abnormalities. Subtle neurologic problems may be masked by musculoskeletal challenges and can often present as some form of lameness. For example, a quadriceps injury in your dog can adversely affect the femoral nerve, resulting in collapse of the stifle. As compensation is often unavailable, this can result in the dog being unable to bear weight in the associated limb. An injury to the radial nerve can manifest in different ways. The radial nerve innervates the extensor muscles of the elbow, carpus and digits, as well as the skin of the dorsal surface of the forearm and paw. A proximal injury to the triceps muscle may result in difficulty bearing weight on a limb, however a distal injury can cause 'paw flipping'. Radial nerve avulsion is common in dogs that have experienced lateral traction injuries. Neurologic exams can be done quickly and efficiently and can provide critical information regarding the health of your animal patient. So if your horse, dog or cat (or other pet) is experiencing unusual behaviors, be sure to ask your practitioner if there may be a neurological problem. Caring for every aspect of your pet will ensure a lifetime of health and wellbeing. Have a comment? Join in!


Thursday, May 16, 2013

The Horse and Dog Athlete and Chiropractic - Pat Holl Animal Chiropractor in Billings Montana


Is your horse or dog an athlete? Is competition and training part of your life? Whether you’re the owner of a world class athlete or a weekend warrior, proper training can improve your pet’s health, nurture communication, and promote wellbeing. Competitions vary, whether it’s dressage, jumping, barrel racing or roping for your horse, or agility, obedience, or confirmation for your dog. Training for these events requires attention to every detail, and preparation strategies often include attention to diet, exercise and equipment. An area often overlooked however, is the health of the nervous system. Animal chiropractors understand the importance of a healthy, functioning nervous system. A vital nervous system is central to the conditioning of your 4-legged athlete, as well as to performance outcome. Chiropractic care for your pet will facilitate a healthier, stronger and more resilient animal. Chiropractic can help restore function and mobility, and improve muscle tone and endurance. It increases the delivery of oxygen and nutrient supply to help develop speed and accuracy, as well as enhance recovery. It helps reduce muscle spasms and adhesions, and increases flexibility to improve overall performance. Additionally, animal chiropractic can address the micro injuries resulting from everyday stress, helping the body heal optimally and enhancing overall quality of life. So a little treatment can make a big difference, and regular chiropractic care can markedly improve your animal’s life!

Monday, May 6, 2013

What is Animal Chiropractic? Pat Holl Animal Chiropractor Billings Montana Equine Canine Chiropractor

What is Animal Chiropractic?


Animal Chiropractic is a field of animal health care that focuses on the health of the neuro-musculo-skeletal system. Nerves control everything that happens in your animals, and anything affecting the nervous system resonates throughout the entire body. When nerves become entrapped, this can interfere with the signaling to their destination tissue, including muscles and organs. As this occurs, the health of your animal can be affected, resulting in stiffness, tension, pain and even organ dysfunction. Additionally, when normal movement is affected it can impact your animal’s wellbeing and quality of life.

The goal of an animal chiropractor is to restore function and mobility to the bones of the spine, known as 'vertebrae' in an effort to re-establish nerve communication. This allows the body to perform at its optimum potential. Animal chiropractors use their hands to identify areas of restriction and apply a precise thrust on the immobile vertebrae in an effort to restore motion and remove nerve interference. When nerves efficiently communicate with all the structures in your animals’ bodies, healing and recovery results.

Animal Chiropractic is not meant to replace traditional veterinary care. It is not an alternative treatment, but rather an integrative method that, when used in conjunction with good traditional veterinary care, will provide years of healthy living. This is the beginning of a contemporary, comprehensive approach to your animal’s healthcare. It is an effective and valuable means of restoring and maintaining strength, vigor and well-being. By exploring and treating the root causes of your animal’s aches, pains and illnesses, you will ensure maximum improvement, top performance and an exceptional quality of life for the animal companions we love. Have a comment? Join the conversation!

Thursday, May 2, 2013

Stress and Your Pet! Pat Holl, Dog Chiropractor Horse Chiropractor Billings Montana 59102

Stress. We all know it, most of us are ‘under’ it, and we all want to get rid of it. But did you know that your pet can also be significantly affected by stress? Animal stressors can result from many things, such as poor diet, inactivity, loneliness, illness, injury and even genetics. Left unmanaged, prolonged stress can lead to increased heart rate, changes in sleeping patterns and even anxiety. Chronic stress can cause the body's systems to breakdown and malfunction, resulting in increased blood pressure, poor digestion,  and can instigate skin reactions. A more noticeable affect of stress in your pet's life is weight gain or loss. Stress can disrupt the nervous system and cause neurotransmitter imbalances, which can lead to loss of energy and fatigue. And, as with humans, our pets can become depressed. If your pet is showing signs of stress, there are positive ways to deal with it. Remember to provide healthy food regularly. Be sure to have lots of CLEAN water available to help flush toxins through the body and to help reduce the risk of disease and infection. Exercise your pet regularly, as movement enhances blood flow to the brain, promotes the flow of body fluids and improves metabolism, not to mention that exercise helps to maintain a healthy weight. Be sure your horse has company in their pasture, and that your cat's litter box is cleaned regularly. If your pet is a ‘nervous’ critter, talk to your vet and discuss supplementing their diet with natural calming remedies. And just as humans crave love and affection, provide plenty of that, for love just may be the secret to optimal health. Stress occurs more commonly in our animals than we may think, but it can be managed. Have thoughts on the subject? Post a comment and join the conversation!

Monday, April 22, 2013

Proper Saddle Fit! Pat Holl Animal Chiropractor Horse Chiropractor Dog Chiropractor Billings Montana


Saddle Fit is one of the most important considerations for any rider, anywhere. The purpose of the saddle is to distribute the weight of the rider evenly, provide a stable base, and to allow the horse to move independently from the rider. If a saddle is the wrong size, positioned incorrectly or defective, it can cause pain and even lameness. Signs of a poor-fitting saddle include head tossing, sores on the back, abnormal head carriage, difficulty changing leads, hair loss or white hairs along the withers under the saddle (indicating blood circulation being cut off), saddle avoidance or striking when saddled, bucking, swelling after removing the saddle and uneven sweat patterns. Over time, the horse’s efforts to compensate in an effort to maintain mobility and balance can result in muscle strain, pain, stumbling, abnormal gait patterns and even lameness! Poor saddle fit can result from improper placement, broken or worn trees, uneven panels and incorrect size of saddle to rider. When saddling your horse, here are some things to consider: First, place the saddle on the horse’s back without padding, put it forward on the withers and then slide it back to where it sits ‘at home’. Saddle should be fit with nothing underneath initially, then rechecked with the padding you’ll be using. There should be a 3-finger clearance between the pommel of the saddle and the withers. Points of the tree should be 2 inches behind the shoulder blade. Run you hand under the panels. Be sure there’s room under the stirrup bars to slide your hand. Check for ‘bridging’ or ‘rocking’, and be sure the saddle is level. Ensure a 3-finger space for gullet clearance. The weightbearing part of the saddle should not extend beyond the last rib. Re-check all systems with the padding on, and remember that good padding is essential. Additionally, know that multiple pads act to functionally narrow the tree, so use one good pad. These are only some of the variables involved in proper saddle fit, but they should get you started. Remember that saddle fit is not stable and not static. You need a rider in motion to accurately and comprehensively assess for proper saddle fit. Have questions? Recommendations? Post a comment, and join the conversation. See you next week!

Thursday, April 11, 2013

Dog Agility and Competition - Pat Holl Canine Equine Chiropractor in Billings Montana


Is your dog an athlete? Is agility competition and training part of your life? Whether you’re a professional handler of a world class athlete or a weekend warrior, agility training can improve your dog’s condition, nurture communication, and promote health. Agility courses vary and can be complicated, whether it’s weave polls, teeter-totters, crossovers, tunnels or jumps. Training for these events require attention to every detail, and preparation strategies often include attention to diet, exercise and sleep patterns. An area often overlooked however, is the health of the nervous system. Animal chiropractors understand the importance of a healthy, functioning nervous system. A vital nervous system is central to the conditioning of your dog, as well as to performance outcome. Chiropractic care for your pet will facilitate a healthier, stronger and more resilient animal. Chiropractic can help restore function and mobility, and improve muscle tone and endurance. It increases the delivery of oxygen and nutrient supply to help develop speed and accuracy. It helps reduce muscle spasms and adhesions, and increases flexibility to improve overall performance. Additionally, animal chiropractic can address the micro injuries resulting from everyday stress, helping the body heal optimally and enhancing overall quality of life. So a little treatment can make a big difference, and regular chiropractic care can markedly improve your dog’s life!

Saturday, March 2, 2013

Montana Skijoring Finals - Pat Holl -Animal Chiropractor in Billings Montana


Imagine being dragged on skis around a 900 foot course from a tow- rope attached to a galloping horse at 25 miles an hour. All the while screaming tailgaters cheering you on. Congratulations. You’ve just been indoctrinated into the sport of skijoring. Originally developed in the Scandinavian countries as a form of transportation, skijoring has morphed into a popular western sport. It is an unusual combination of western and Norwegian traditions, often blending teams of ‘old-time western cowboys’ with ‘modish’ skiers, negotiating through an outer snow-covered slalom course with gates and jumps on skies, and an often muddy inner course by the horse. The race is timed. The horse gallops around the inside of the track, pulling the skier who grabs onto a rope. The fastest times go home with the trophy. As a chiropractor, it is difficult not to recognize the absolute necessity for my professional skills, both for the skier and the HORSE! Navigating muddy or icy turns at high speeds can often result in crashes. However, despite the wipe-outs, it is definitely a winter adventure sport unlike any other. The skijoring circuit passes through communities throughout the west, including Wyoming, Colorado and Montana, and Red Lodge Montana hosts the national championships, coming up next weekend! So, if you’re looking for some winter excitement combining athletic skills with sheer strength, be sure to check out the Skijoring Finals in Red Lodge Montana next weekend. But chiropractors beware…it’s subluxation city!!! Have a comment? Join the conversation!

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Canine Hip Dysplasia - Pat Holl - Animal Chiropractic in Billings Montana


Hip dysplasia is a malformation of the hip joint, usually beginning with a subluxation of the femoral head in the acetabular cavity. What this means is that the thigh bone (femur) isn't sitting appropriately in the hip joint (acetabulum). This leads to premature wear and tear of the joint, and left unattended, can evolve to progressive degenerative joint disease. This condition can cause hip and leg pain, stiffness, lameness, reluctance to rise, abnormal gait, ‘bunny hopping’, and muscle atrophy. Secondary symptoms may include neuralgia, sacroiliac joint pain, facet syndrome and spinal subluxations. Though predominantly found in larger breeds, hip dysplasia can be seen in any breed at any age. The standard diagnostic technique is x-ray, which is critical for visualizing bone degeneration. The causes of this condition may include genetic, environmental and/or nutritional components. Additionally, chronic wear and tear caused by aggressive training or competition may prematurely wear down the joints. Treatment may include weight control and gentle exercise such as long walks, to stimulate cartilage growth and help prevent muscle atrophy. Other options include Regenerative Injection Therapies, such as Prolotherapy and Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy to help regenerate and reinforce the ligaments and tendons surrounding the joint. Depending on the severity of this condition, medication may be indicated to control pain and reduce inflammation. In the more advanced cases, surgical intervention is an option to modify, repair or replace the joint. Remember that these pups will usually benefit from chiropractic management in the neighboring joints and spine to stimulate the nervous system and boost immunity! Have a comment? Join in!

Monday, January 14, 2013

Caring For Your Horse in Winter - Pat Holl - Horse Chiropractor in Billings, Montana

Hi everyone, and Happy 2013! Well, it’s January, and when it’s cold to us, it’s cold to our horses. Though horses adapt incredibly well to winter and grow ‘winter coats’ for added protection and insulation against the elements (see picture of my filly, below), we still need to ensure that they are adequately prepared and fortified throughout the winter months. If you keep your horse in a stall or barn, always be sure that the bedding is clean and changed regularly. Be sure there is good ventilation, as this is vital for your horse’s respiration, however be aware of ‘drafty’ areas, particularly in frosty temps. If you winter your horse outdoors, be sure to provide a wind block. Most horses accustomed to being outdoors adapt and will grow long, warm coats which retain body heat for insulation, but a frigid wind can penetrate most things. Additionally, rain and ‘wet cold’ can be challenging to withstand. You may want to consider blanketing your horse. Blankets are particularly helpful for the older horse, or perhaps one who is injured and cannot run around freely. There are many wonderful types of blankets, running from lightweight to heavy, depending on the need, and there are numerous resources online delineating these distinctions. If you ride your horse throughout the winter, remember these tips: Always prepare your horse by warming up. As with us, freezing temps can injure improperly prepared tissues. A comprehensive grooming will warm the muscles, tendons and ligaments by promoting circulation. Also, don’t neglect your horse’s hooves. Packed snow and ice buildup in the hoof can be treacherous, particularly in terrain that might also be snowy or icy. Warm the bit and tack before use, and remember that if your horse has been corralled for any length of time, it is vital they have appropriate warm-up. Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, remember to check the water in your horse’s watering areas. Automatic heating waterers are great if you have them, but if not, try insulated buckets. These are just a few of the reminders that will help provide your horse with the love and care they deserve, even when ‘Old Man Winter’ is in town! Have a comment? Join the conversation, and see you next week!