>>>> If your horses were shod with winter shoes they would be fine - a bit >>>> like the difference between driving a car in summer tyres or with >>>> studded winter tyres. I don't think there's any problem with riding in >>>> icy conditions providing you are well prepared for them.
Really...? Can YOUR car feel pain from arthritis? Does your horse have WHEELS that roll on ice, or bones/joints/muscles that take the brunt of concussions? Hard and slippery surfaces are known risk factors for bone spavin, and considering that this breed is known for that disorder, I don't think you can say it's harmless. Karen Thomas, NC
