by Deidre Mcdowell

Created on: July 22, 2008   Last Updated: June 25, 2009

Understanding the sensitive physiology of a horse is very important for an owner and/or rider.If you know which body areas are particularly sensitive to touch, you will have a better relationship with your four-legged friend.You will understand how to touch and handle your animal, and it will trust you more because of this.According to experts the most sensitive areas of a horse are the mouth, flanks, feet, neck and shoulders. Therefore, to become a better horseman, a person should familiarize himself to these areas.

The horse,compared to many animals,has a low threshold for pain.This information is important when understanding the sensitivity of its mouth.The mouth plays a big part in riding and training the animal, because this is where the bit goes.If a rider uses too much force when pulling a horse's bit, the mouth will lose its sensitivity, resulting in "hard mouth". This will cause obvious difficulties in riding and training the animal.

The flanks, or sides of a horse are also very sensitive.A horse responds to not only the bit in its mouth, but also to the touch of a rider's legs on it side. Therefore, it is important for a rider to kick only when necessary. Continous or rough kicking to this area will only cause confusion. Also, because of the physiology of this area, it is important to have a well-fitted saddle. The most painful thing for these beautiful animals comes from a saddle that does not fit.

Never underestimate proper maintenance and care of a horse's feet. This is very important. A healthy companion has healthy feet. It is important to check the feet regularly to remove any dirt, rocks or foreign items. Stay clear of the V-shaped area of the hoof. This is a very sensitive area called "the frog". Proper care of the feet can help you to catch any lameness in the animal. Lameness occurs when feet become too sensitive due to injury or illness.

Also take care around the neck and shoulders of a horse.It is important to use good judgement when using a whip in these areas. If used correctly a whip on this sensitive area can cause the horse's muscles to shorten. This will cause the animal to slow down or shorten its stride. Do not use this technique unnecessarily, as you do not want to de-sensitize this area of the horse.

Knowing about a horse's physiology, and taking the time to understand it, will only make you a better horseman.Your joy for the companionship of these beautiful creatures will increase when you are always aware of these areas on its body, because the animal will trust you more. Therefore, this knowledge will benefit both you and the horse. It will help foster your relationship and lead to fulfilling times together.

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