Shires Equine Scratcher

Product Information

Our horse didn’t have to go through this procedure because he wasn’t scratched by the vet; rather, it was a steward’s decision. DIY brush scratching posts the roughest textured option, and is especially great for horses with intense itches or long coats. Most of the racehorses running in the Derby are shipped in, and the veterinarians want to ensure they are in proper condition to race.

Why Are Racehorses Scratched? Secrets At The Starting Gates? Why Are Racehorses Scratched? Secrets At The Starting Gates?

Which is fine – it still works great as a scratching post – even though it’s so loose now that I can lift it right out of the ground if I want to!A texturised, flexible panel that can be mounted on a fence post or stable wall allowing horses to safely scratch without the worry of potential injury. I think this may work well for older horses, but my two-year-old stallions tore their Pillow Post off the post and stomped it into the ground – it was a toy for them, rather than something to itch themselves on! Even if your horse does have scratchable objects, they may not be your first choice for self-grooming. This horse is elevating his head and leaning forward to encourage scratches on the base of the neck. Give your horse a chance to decide if they want a different body area scratched, or whether they’re just not in the mood.

Equine Scratcher | Shires Equestrian

Lack of trees, hot wire fencing and smooth paddock rails leave horses looking for the most abrasive thing they can find, resulting in undesirable spots to scratch. To “steal a purse” occurs when an owner or trainer hopes to sneak a fast horse into a claiming race with inferior horses to win some easy money. If they look content or interested, pause your scratching with your hands close to, but not touching, your horse. Here’s what these re-purposed grooming tools look like after I screwed them onto a 6″ diameter post I had pounded into the center of my pasture. I grew up with horses as integral parts of our daily activities—be it working with cattle, trail riding, or even hunting.So if you can set up a sturdy self-scratching area (the edge of a barn, a designated post, a big tree) this can help prevent your fences and gates being destroyed by itchy butts, heads and necks. Brushes with flat, smooth tops are necessary for this project because they’ll lie flat against the board. To prove he is sound commonly requires proof from the racehorse’s private veterinarian, official workouts, and a follow-up exam by the track vet to confirm the horse is sound. When creating a scratching post or area for your horses, you can choose from some great professional solutions, or you can utilize old brushes, curries and grooming massage tools.