Re: [RC] Fw: OT - Petition against the use of Buckles and bands on Morgans - Jeanne Slominski
Thanks for your clarification, however the original intent was to
allow horses with bands for therapeutic purposes to be shown in the ring.
Obviously, these bands will be used on sound horses for the purpose of allowing
the use of the thickest pad and shoe with the longest allowable hoof length -
not something responsible Morgan owners would like to see in the show
ring.
Subject: Re: [RC] Fw: OT - Petition
against the use of Buckles and bands on Morgans
Just to clarify.....
Banding is common is any breed that shows "park"
(arabs, saddlebreds and walkers as well). The band's actual purpose
is to allow you to "stack" (several layers of wedge pads, to boost the heel,
thus the hoof angle). The band attaches to the heel of the shoe, ground
side of the pads, to help hold the bulk and weight, as nails can't complete
the job. In many shows/organizations "padding"
is prohibited. Thus enters the weighted shoe, rocker bars, and now
the weighted band. The concept behind all these contraptions is to
burden the front hooves, so the horse will lift his entire leg extremely and
tuck in under the knee.
Yes, banding is done for theraputic reasons also,
though not very often. Horses requiring bands to be sound, wouldn't be
competing at this level anyway. (generally speaking -- there is always
that exception)
Not condoning, just clarifying. I will
share, I have worked on several ex-padded show horses that were
completely sound and no worse for wear. I own a sound 29yo arab mare that
was shown padded until 10yo (not by me, I don't do rings!). I'm sure
others have different stories they can share to shed some light on the
issue.
Subject: [RC] Fw: OT - Petition against
the use of Buckles and bands on Morgans
This is OT, but it does involve horses, Morgans, to be more specific,
and this would never be allowed at an AERC ride. The AMHA has decided that
it's now okay for Morgans to be shown in the ring with metal bands on their
hooves. These bands are cut hose clamps which are attached to the heels of
the shoe and run up and over the top of the hoof. Ostensibly this is for the
purpose of being able to show a Morgan with hoof problems. The reality is
that these bands will be used on sound horses with the intent of
accentuating the Morgan's natural 'park' action. This new rule is now before
the USEF for a final decision. Please take a moment and sign the petition
against this proposed action.
