Confirmation
of the horse refers to the "putting together" of the parts
which, collectively, compose the structure of the animal. Not only
should the parts be well formed individually, but they must fit
and blend with other parts in order to make the whole structure
symmetrical and sound. The strength of a chain is measured by the
strength of its weakest link. Unlike a chain, however, the parts
or units of conformation in a horse are not identical. Some are
of greater importance than others, and interfere more with serviceability
if they are deemed defective.
There
are many reasons why we study confirmation of the horse, but for
the most part we attempt to uncover those conformation faults or
undesirable characteristics which will lead to serious ailments
or unsoundness at a later date. Naturally, we evaluate a horse’s
conformation prior to purchase. It is essential that you master
the parts of the horse before you begin to evaluate any horse. To
assist the reader in determining what faults to look for in a horse,
refer to the illustration provided.
Don’t
make the common mistake by starting out to fault the individual.
Look for what is good. If you do this some faults will naturally
show up along the way. Each horse must be judged on their own merit
as an individual. The method I use to evaluate conformation is broken
down into three (3) basic steps:
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A. Close-Up Inspection
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The first phase of conformation
evaluation is considered by most as the most important. During
your Close-Up Inspection you are actually laying your hands
on the body of the horse feeling the heat, sensitivity, swellings
etc. The feet are my first consideration. If I find no abnormalities
I continue on to the next phase. If for some reason I find something
like corrective shoes or wedge pads it may be an indication
the animal has Navicular Disease and my evaluation ends at that
point. |
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B. Observing The Horse
At A Distance |
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After my Close-Up Inspection
I will step back and observe the horse from a distance of about
20 feet. You must take a total of four (4) positions to properly
evaluate any horse at a distance. |
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1. Front View
2. Rear View
3. Right Side View
4. Left Side View |
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If all goes well at this
phase of the evaluation I move on to the last and final phase. |
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C. Observing The Horse
In Action |
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This final phase of inspection
involves observing the horse moving. This includes: |
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1. Walking
2. Trotting away from you and towards you
3. Backing the horse in a straight line
4. Actually riding the horse |
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Throughout the evaluation
process you may make notations on all that you find wrong with
the horse to assist you or your trainer in making your over-all
decision to purchase a particular horse. It is very important
that you obtain the services of a Veterinarian to examine your
final choice for soundness BEFORE you purchase the horse. Conformation
evaluation is an area of horsemanship where we can all practice
and improve our skills, an area where we can improve but can
never fully master. |
Article
Provided By Ted Landers
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