Looking, but not Seeing...

From Jim: Donna and I do the chores twice a day-everyday. We feel pretty strongly that we need to do them ourselves because it's when we can take some time to observe the critters. We try to keep a constant assessment of each animal's condition and status. Those on the "watch-list" get an extra long look. It is a regular topic of conversation to compare what we're each seeing. Sometimes, we'll walk back out to look over a concern together. When we have our doubts, we get the vet and the farrier involved in the process. We not only look, we really try to see how the individual animals are doing. So, What are we looking for? Well, any change in overall condition, behavior, or mannerisms. Lameness, appetite, demeanor with herd mates, chewing, quality of manure, frequency of urination, skin and coat condition, new wounds, hoof shape and quality, alertness and state of well being is part of it. Taking a few minutes to check out how well they travel, the brightness of their eyes, their personality count into it. If there are changes, How much?, How quickly did it occur?, Was it expected?, Is it part of the normal life cycle? In order to know the answers to these questions, you have to know the animal and have a frame of reference to work with. If the critter has an old injury and has always been short on the left hind or turned in on the right front, you know that and aren't worried. If this mare or that gelding is a little standoffish and always has been, well, OK then. We don't know of any shortcuts to gaining the kind of knowledge that lets you see, not just look. It just takes time and a willingness to pay attention. It becomes second nature to sum up what you're seeing. Most of the horse people I've known can tell in about a second if their horse is having an issue. It's the same here, we just have 80 of em to get to know. Next time you're around your horse, make yourself think about what you're seeing. Make a few mental notes. Look, because that's always nice to do when we're with these beautiful animals, but make it a point to see, as well!