14
Horse & County
Just Ask
January 2010
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Alpacas:Great companions and grazing partners due to their toughness
Funny Feet
My horse really objects to anybody picking up her front feet. Could this be due to stubbornness or could this be caused by something physical. What do you think? Liberty, 22, Pembroke There are many reasons why your mare might not pick up her feet up. •
She might feel some sort of pain when one or other foot is lifted up.
Could I graze my pony with alpacas? I have recently lost my beloved old mare who was a companion for my grandson’s pony. Since, the pony has become very unsettled, pacing back and fore most of the day and continuously looking miserable. Our local vet has suggested trying to find another companion as he believes it is just a matter of pining. A nearby neighbour breeds alpacas and says that they make great grazing partners for horses. I have always been a fan of them, but would this idea be suitable? Do horses and alpacas graze together? And are alpacas easy to look after? Liz, 60, Tenby Firstly, I am sorry to here of your loss Liz. Concerning your queries I am pleased to say that yes alpacas make excellent companions and pets for that matter. Closely related to the Llama species, alpacas will quite happily graze and live amongst other animals such as horses and sheep. They are easy to look after as they are tough animals, but would require shelter in harsher weather conditions, shearing and vaccinating. They are popular amongst farmers and smallholding owners as they are renowned for their skill of chasing foxes away by spitting and stamping on the spot. For anymore information visit The British Alpaca Society (BAS) at www.bas-uk.com or phone 08453 312 468.
• She might have been previously frightened in some way. • She might simply have learnt that she can do what she wants.
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I would suggest that you start with the basics and get your mare used to having her legs and hooves handled on a daily basis until she is comfortable with the thought of these areas being touched. If she will allow this, then try to pick up one front foot and reward him profusely when he does. Repeat the exercise, gradually increasing the amount of time that the foot is off the ground. If she is genuinely frightened and is a danger risk when having this done, I recommend that you have your vet attend to see if some sedation might help in the early stages until she becomes more accustomed to the activity. It might take you some time to change her behaviour whatever its cause, and you will need to be patient and understanding, however remain firm.
Many horses are subject to being affraid of having their feet touched
Can my Appaloosa gelding be shown? I have been thinking about the idea of showing my 15hh Appaloosa gelding. However, I am unsure which classes I could enter him in. Please could you help me? Anne, 36, Haverfordwest The British Spotted Pony Society states that they only accept ponies up to 14.2hh and as your horse is 15hh, he would not be adequate. Although, he could be registered as a part-bred with the Appaloosa Society. The society’s rules mainly state that horses must be over 14.2hh and must be of Riding Horse type and ability. If you do decide to show your gelding horse within the Appaloosa Society showing classes, he must be plaited, trimmed and presented as a Riding Horse. As your gelding is 15hh, he would meet the required height standards. This would make him acceptable under the rules and regulations for the Appaloosa Society. Good luck.