I am a novice to
endurance, only 700 mi. to date. I have learned more about horse
physiology in the past 2 years than in the 40 yrs of horsing around
before. I sought out that information because I wanted my horse to do
well & I wanted to protect my horse & I didn't let my ego get in
the way. It seems that most people in endurance are passionate about
their horses and the sport but there will always be the person whose ego is
bigger than their brain.
I've been reading
all the banter since Stagg's original question of what can be done to cut
down on treated horses at rides. So, sticking to the subject, I don't
think we necessarily have to change all the rules but rather play by them
& look at what else we can do to just improve on what is currently
done.
1. I like
just coming in, getting HR & vetting. HR 64. If
there's a problem that I haven't recognized then I'll know it immediately.
Rider DDS (Distance Dementia Syndrome) can set in at any time.
2. Great
idea - pulse out - 50? If not, back to vet. Poor CRI -
PULL. I never took the pulse going out but I will now even if it's not
required.
3. Holds
- I like the 30 - 45 -30 for 50's. Can't speak to 100s because
I've never done one. Tack on or off depends on weather conditions &
should be determined by the vets.
4. Holds -
If there are only 2 then maybe 50 & 50 min. and entrants
having minimum mileage requirements for both horse &
rider.
5. Holds -
If there's only one hold it better be at least an hour & absolute
minimum mileage requirements for horse & rider - 500 mi.? A real
novice entering a ride with 1 hold could be a real disaster.
6. AERC
could put out a recommended reading list for new members.
7. Vets
should just pull a horse when the signs indicate the horse is in
trouble. I was surprised at how apologetic the vets were at one ride when
they pulled my horse for lameness in the hind. I hadn't felt
it & couldn't see it while I was trotting him out. I was
disappointed but thankful that they pulled him. I was able to start
treating the problem immediately. The point is, the vet is there to
protect the horse, not the rider's ego. When it's iffy - Vets speak
up - tell the rider what you think, make suggestions & make them come
back for a second check.
8.
Lower HR criteria - might identify horses in trouble, might just
increase time. Any research to back up this
idea?
Lastly, I ride a 19 yo black bay QH and he pulses down as fast as
any Arab. Resting pulse is 36-38. Is there any valid
research to show differences in recovery rates between
breeds?
