Sunday, June 28, 2020

Grazing with Muzzle Halters


Over the years never felt there was a need to use a grazing muzzle halter. This summer, the vet was at my farm and checked all the minis. Both he and the farrier agreed to reduce overeating (grass founder). 



The halters looked monster big when I got them, but after some adjusting, I think they are about the right size...lucked out with buying them at a special $10 price each, but it the delay took a month to get them here. Got them from State Line Tack.


Two minis spent 2 hours twice a day on the lawn in front of my house, then the rest of the time they are in dry lot. 
I watch them for the entire time. They don't mind my outside work such as driving my lawnmower and making a lot of noise.

All around my house on the lawn is good eating grass. Since the number of minis are reduced the lawn is large enough but also uses a dry fenced area.

Pharoah and Willow don't mind the halters. 


With all the minis I can look out and see them from anyway around the outside of the house.

Symptoms of the founder:Heat and pain in the foot causing the horse to avoid putting his weight on the affected feet. The
hooves will be hot to the touch."

 TreatmentThe veterinarian will give laxatives to clean out the digestive tract and inject anti-inflammatory
drugs and antihistamines. A special diet and hoof trimming care will be prescribed. In some
instances, nitroglycerine cream will be prescribed to increase blood flow to the feet.


1) Prevent obesity 

2) Do not allow a horse to eat black walnuts
3) Any diet changes must be done gradually
4) Avoid excess grain in the diet
5) Maintain feet by regular trimming
6) Early evaluation and treatment of fever- temp above 101F
7) Ensure that a mare passes her placenta within 3 hours of foaling


Copied from: Cruz Mini Horse