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At Equimade, we’re always looking for ways so you can to improve horse care and safety. That’s why we’re excited to tell you a bit more about how you can make cross tying safe with EasyConnects – the very horse-friendly tie-ups or cross ties.
These innovative devices are changing the game when it comes to securing horses safely and comfortably. In this post, we’ll explore how EasyConnects work and why they’re a must-have for every horse owner.
What Are EasyConnects?
A Revolutionary Tie-Up System
EasyConnects represent a significant leap forward in horse handling and securing technology. These innovative tie-ups feature a unique Velcro Safety Release for emergency situations, releasing under panic to protect the horse and handler. This smart design provides horses with a quick escape route during panic situations, dramatically reducing injury risks.
The SafeConnect Carabiner: Strength Meets Lightweight Design
At the core of the EasyConnect system lies the SafeConnect aluminium carabiner. This component is reliable and steady, capable of handling 24 000 Newton (more than +2000 kg). Such a combination of strength and reliability transforms how handlers secure their horses.
Comfort and Durability in One Package
EasyConnects use 100% polyester twill in their construction, striking an ideal balance between durability and comfort. The soft material makes it easy for handlers to grip, ensuring reliability during regular use to make cross tying safe. This material choice also contributes to a quieter environment, as it produces minimal noise compared to traditional systems.
Adaptable for Various Equestrian Needs
EasyConnects come in lengths ranging from 50 cm to 200 cm, making them suitable for diverse stable, horse-trailer and competition settings. Users can apply them in stalls, trailers, or lorries, showcasing their versatility. The design of the SafeConnect carabiner allows for reliable attachment, further expanding its utility.
These features address common safety concerns associated with traditional cross-ties while offering practical benefits for both horses and handlers. As the equestrian world continues to prioritize horse safety and comfort, innovations like EasyConnects lead the charge towards more responsible and effective equine care practices. In the next section, we’ll explore the specific safety advantages that set EasyConnects apart from conventional tie-up systems.
How EasyConnect Enhances Horse Safety
At the core of EasyConnect’s design lies a commitment to revolutionize cross tying safe. This innovative tie-up system addresses critical concerns that have long plagued traditional cross-ties.
Panic-Proof Protection
The cornerstone of EasyConnect’s safety features is its unique Velcro® release mechanism. This ingenious design opens when pressure exceeds 900 Newton, approximately 90 kg (198 lbs), providing a quick escape for frightened horses. This feature significantly reduces the risk of injury during panic situations, a common concern among horse owners and handlers.
In practice, this means that if a horse spooks or pulls back suddenly, the EasyConnect system will release before the force becomes dangerous. This prevents potential neck, spine, or poll injuries that can occur with rigid tie systems. It’s a game-changer for nervous or young horses still learning to stand tied.
Light Weight Design
EasyConnect’s streamlined design minimizes the risk of a heavy object in the face or on the body, a hazard often associated with traditional cross-ties. The smooth, lightweight SafeConnect carabiner and the flat twill band work together to prevent any hardware that could come flying towards the horses, or the handlers body.
This light weight design proves particularly beneficial in busy stable environments or during grooming sessions where horses might shift their weight or move around. It allows for natural movement without compromising safety, reducing stress for both horse and handler.
Quick-Release for Emergencies
In addition to the automatic Velcro® release, EasyConnect features a manual quick-release mechanism. This allows handlers to disengage the tie-up with less than 1 kg of pressure, far away from the horses head, enabling swift action in emergency situations.
This dual-release system provides an extra layer of safety, allowing handlers to quickly free a horse if needed, even from a safe distance. It’s an essential feature for professional stables (where staff safety should be paramount) and for individual owners who prioritize quick response times in potentially dangerous situations.
Adaptability and Versatility
EasyConnect’s design allows for use in various equestrian settings. From stables to trailers, and even competition arenas, this system adapts to different environments with ease. This versatility ensures that horses can benefit from enhanced safety measures regardless of their location or activity.
The system’s adaptability extends to its compatibility with different horse sizes and temperaments. Whether you’re working with a calm, experienced horse or a young, spirited one, EasyConnect provides a consistent level of safety and control.
As we move forward in our exploration of EasyConnect, let’s examine how this innovative system translates into practical applications for everyday horse care and management.
Practical Applications of EasyConnect in Daily Horse Care
Efficient Cross-Tying in Stables and Trailers
EasyConnect simplifies cross-tying in various environments. Its versatile design allows for quick setup in stables and trailers. Users can attach the EasyConnect loops to wall fixtures in stables or tie rings in trailers. The system offers lengths from 50 cm to 200 cm, accommodating different spaces and horse sizes.
A significant advantage is the reduced injury risk during transportation. A lot of horses have gotten their jaws broken due to unsafe chains or cuts in their mouths due to dangerous “fish-hook” carabiners. If a horse is difficult to attach/detach the SafeConnect carabiner is easy to handle, proves particularly valuable for young or nervous horses, still acclimatising to travel preventing them from potential neck injuries.
Safer Grooming and Tacking Up Sessions
EasyConnect makes grooming and tacking up safer and more comfortable. The system’s light weight design allows horses to shift their weight naturally without extra weight on the horses neck. This freedom of movement benefits longer grooming sessions like clipping, or during transportation.
The quick-release feature proves invaluable if a horse startles during grooming. Handlers can disengage the tie-up from a safe distance, preventing escalation of potentially dangerous situations. This added safety measure allows grooms to focus on their task with greater confidence.
Effective Training: Habituation vs. Desensitization
Key Differences
1. Habituation:– Gradual, fear-free learning process– Horse becomes accustomed to stimuli without stress– Focuses on positive associations2. Desensitization:– Involves reducing an existing fear response– May initially trigger stress or anxiety– Can leave residual associations with fear
EasyConnect serves as an excellent tool for training exercises, particularly those aimed at prioritizing habituation for horses being tied up. If we can create a more positive and less stressful learning environment for horses, this leads to better long-term outcomes for both horse and rider, ensuring a higher standard of welfare and a more harmonious relationship.
The system’s gradual release under pressure helps horses learn to yield to tension without panic. This feature instructs young horses to stand quietly while tied. The sound of the Velcro opening is often an unfamiliar sound, so this makes the tie-up learning journey smoother.
For advanced training, EasyConnect incorporates into exercises that simulate real-world scenarios. Trainers can introduce controlled distractions while the horse is cross-tied, building confidence and calmness in various situations.
The system’s quiet operation contributes to a calmer stable environment. Unlike traditional metal cross-ties that create startling noises and are heavy if they come flying, EasyConnect’s soft materials minimise sound, allowing horses to focus on the moment without worrying that something is going to hurt them.
Versatility in Different Equestrian Settings
EasyConnect adapts to various equestrian environments (e.g., grooming areas, competition arenas, lorries, trail riding areas). Its lightweight design makes it easy to transport and use in multiple locations. This versatility ensures horses benefit from enhanced safety measures regardless of their location or activity.
The system’s adaptability extends to its compatibility with different horse sizes and temperaments. Whether working with a calm, experienced horse or a young, spirited one, EasyConnect provides a consistent level of safety and control.
Make Sure the Tie-Rings is High Enough
The tie-rings should be attached to the wall or post at a distance higher than the withers of the tallest horse.
Final Thoughts
EasyConnects – horse-friendly tie-ups or cross ties – revolutionise equine safety and care. These innovative devices address longstanding concerns in horse handling, offering a blend of safety, comfort, and practicality that sets them apart from traditional cross-tie systems. The unique SafeConnect, Velcro® release mechanism, light weight design, and quick-release functionality dramatically reduce injury risks for both horses and handlers.
EasyConnects prove their versatility in various equestrian settings, from stable grooming to trailer loading. They allow horses more natural movement while tied, which contributes to a calmer environment and facilitates effective training. The system adapts to different horse sizes and temperaments, cementing its position as a universal solution for responsible horse care.
We at Equimade encourage all horse owners and handlers to prioritise the wellbeing and safety of their equine partners. You can explore our full range of innovative equine products at Equimade. Our commitment to safety, performance, and sustainability in equestrian equipment continues to drive our innovations.