by Rhui Chatar

Created on: August 05, 2009   Last Updated: August 06, 2009

Guide to using a horse muzzle

Sometimes circumstance puts us in the awkward position of restricting our horse's intake of grass. This could be due to weight, overeating or other medical issues, but whatever the reason, we can still offer our equine friend to the benefit of exercise, fresh air, and sunshine, found turned out in a comfortable paddock. Stall confinement has it's uses, but where the only requirement is to restrict grazing intake, then a properly fitted grazing muzzle will do the trick nicely.

Grazing muzzles are just that; they are designed to restrict the amount of grazing by only alllowing a small amount of grass through the hole in the muzzle, while not restricting water intake. Some muzzles come with a halter attached or they can be fitted to an existing halter via snaps. The fitting part is crucial to success when using a muzzle. Too loose and the muzzle can be stepped on, too snug and it can cause rubs, or worse, discourage drinking.

The easiest muzzles to fit are the types that come with the halter already attached. These will cost a bit more than just the muzzle attachment, but are easier to adjust and have less hardware to get caught up in things. All muzzles come in a variety of sizes. Select the size best suited for the size of horse in question. Also, be sure that the muzzle comes with a breakaway feature designed to pull apart should the horse struggle to free itself in a moment of panic.

There are other uses for a grazing muzzle too. The muzzle will prevent the horse from biting while in the company of other horses or humans. Of course it's best to prevent unwanted behavior through training, but sometimes this isn't possible due to circumstances. Some stallions, when breeding, feel it is appropriate to bite their partner. A well-fitted grazing muzzle will protect both horses and humans during this situation.

It's not always the stallions that are at fault though. Some mares with alpha personalities or foals at their side can find it equally appropriate to bite any and all offending parties. Although it is in their nature to do so out on the range, it's much less convenient for more confined social gatherings, be it with other horses on a trail ride, or folks just going about their chores in the barn. Such personalities may require a muzzle to be kept at hand until other resolutions can be found.

Using a properly fitted muzzle should provide a safe and pleasant experience for either our overeater, or over-aggressive equine partner.

Learn more about this author, Rhui Chatar.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.