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Strategies for Achieving Optimal Health beyond Appearance, as Suggested by Max Corcoran

Horse grooming: A focus on horse health over cosmetic polish, emphasized by Masterclass instructor.

Tips by Max Corcoran on Enhancing Overall Health (Not Only Physical Appearance)
Tips by Max Corcoran on Enhancing Overall Health (Not Only Physical Appearance)

Strategies for Achieving Optimal Health beyond Appearance, as Suggested by Max Corcoran

Max Corcoran, a renowned international event groom with decades of experience and the current President of the United States Eventing Association, emphasizes the importance of planning horse care seasonally. This proactive approach helps in crafting a comprehensive horse care plan, rather than reacting to problems once they arise.

In his Masterclass, Corcoran provides detailed information about each season and how to best approach the challenges they present. He also offers numerous how-to's and checklists to ensure a well-rounded approach to horse care.

One key aspect of seasonal horse care planning is maintaining a yearly calendar. This calendar should include horse care and training plans, as well as appointments for lessons, the farrier, vet, dentist, truck and trailer maintenance, and medication withdrawal dates prior to shows.

A thorough leg check is an essential part of every grooming session. This includes looking for irregularities and feeling for ticks, scabs, filling, warmth, etc. Paying attention to a horse's cues is crucial in grooming, as it helps in understanding the horse's comfort and overall health.

Photos of a horse's feet and legs should be taken periodically to notice changes in hoof angle or the presence of lumps/bumps. It's also important to note dates of absence or unavailability for riding and training.

Maintaining a weekly calendar is beneficial for tracking successful patterns and the horse's condition. This regular monitoring allows for timely adjustments to the horse's care plan, ensuring its continued health and well-being.

In addition to physical care, it's crucial to keep track of paperwork expiration dates. This includes important documentation such as vaccination records, health certificates, and competition permits.

Corcoran emphasizes that grooming is primarily about maintaining the health and soundness of a horse, not just making it look shiny. A detailed check of a horse's body and mood, with a brush in hand, is an integral part of this process.

By following Corcoran's advice and implementing a seasonal horse care plan, horse owners can ensure their horses remain healthy, happy, and ready for any challenges the seasons may bring.

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