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  Discussion on Uncooperative horse
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Posted on Wednesday, Mar 1, 2000 - 10:47 am:

I recently bought my first horse and realize that it's time to clean him out! Unfortunately, my horse is not very cooperative when I try to get near his sheath. He tries to kick at me. When I first start picking around there, he lifts his hind leg up high, like it's uncomfortable or like a dog when you scratch something that feels good. Then, however, he kicks out at me. He hasn't gotten me (yet!), but I think it's just a matter of time. Due to weather conditions and this little problem, I haven't gotten down to business yet in sheath cleaning, but soon I will have to. Should I just go forward as best I can? If this continues to be a real problem, would a tranquilizer be an option?

Posted on Wednesday, Mar 1, 2000 - 10:58 am:

I just read some forum discussions which answered most of my concerns. However, as far as tranquilizing goes, are there certain drugs or amounts that make it more likely that he would DrOp down for me? I've had him tranq'd in the past for mane pulling (he hates it) and though he seems pretty sedated he doesn't DrOp down.

Posted on Wednesday, Mar 1, 2000 - 12:21 pm:

Do you have your vet out for spring shots, teeth float, etc.? If so, you could ask him to show you how to clean the sheath, etc. Your horse may be a little sensitive back there if he hasn't been cleaned recently and require a tranq.

Now, in preparation for sheath clean, you can get him used to being handled in the area by grooming, TTOUCH, etc. every time you come out to ride.

Once he is not so senitive to being handled back there, you can try squirting warmish mineral oil or sheath cleaner up in there to loosen things up - your picking around all the dried goo may feel about as good as pulling a bandage off of a sensitive area.

Your vet won't mind educating you. Just be sure to tell him/her as you are making the appointment so there is plenty of time allocated.

Cheers.

Posted on Wednesday, Mar 1, 2000 - 12:35 pm:

I'm new to the Horseman's Advisor and so I don't really know what's been suggested or reported in the past, but I can say what's worked best for me. I start by making sure I can touch/rub my horses everywhere, including their sheaths so that when it comes time to do this necessary job, they don't end up being surprised and anxious.

I've also found that a lubricating jel like KY works quite well for sheath cleaning. It's water soluable and non-irritating so although you would want to rinse out as much as possible, it isn't quite as critical to remove as soap. It tends to loosen all the crud (smegma?) and my horses have actually come to not mind this at all. I apply the jel with my hand, using a disposable glove and gently work it around thoroughly inside the sheath. Depending upon the amount of crud, you may need to make several applications. I keep a bucket of warm water with an old cloth handy for rinsing. Removing the bean can be a little more tricky, but it's not difficult if you know what you're looking for.

I'm not familiar with drugs to have them DrOp, but I do feel that having your horse's trust and respect will go a long way in helping them to accept this unpleasant, but necessary chore.

Posted on Wednesday, Mar 1, 2000 - 2:20 pm:

Thanks Chris & Donna! I'm not looking forward to the task, but I've got to give it a shot. I will have my vet out to help me a bit and I've actually heard that KY works well, so I'm going to pick some of that up, too. Hopefully I'll be able to do this without having to ask for so much assistance, but it's great to know I've got good people to ask!

Posted on Tuesday, Aug 1, 2000 - 10:44 pm:

Just happened to stumble on the best TIME to clean a horse's sheath which is after a long, exhaustive trail ride. Our horses were muddy, sweaty and happily fatigued while enjoying a nice shower when I decided to take a few swipes at a hanging sheath. At one point, my horse retracted, but still cooperated for a thorough cleansing. And, I even found a yellow, waxy bean!! Good Luck!!

Posted on Wednesday, Aug 2, 2000 - 7:37 am:

Hello Marge,
You have stumbled on a excellent technique that should be obvious but often gets overlooked. This is the best time to do a lot of things, including introducing a horse to new stimulus. Post it in the Tips section and you will probably be rewarded.
DrO

Posted on Wednesday, Aug 2, 2000 - 5:03 pm:

LOL.

The old adage - "a tired dog is a good dog" must apply to horses, too.

GRIN. (Where is Dr. O's smiley face when I need it?)

Posted on Saturday, Jun 2, 2001 - 3:57 pm:

I have a two year old who let me clean last year but when i tried yesterday he kicked out at me several times. any tips?
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