Instructions and Care
Adjusting The Bal-Aid Equine Tactile Bracelets.
Your bracelets are initially set to the shortest possible setting.
Adjust the bracelets with the buckle opened, holding it by the toggle end. Pull the end of the cord out of the loop below the toggle to loosen the cord.
Adjust the cord to the desired length (approximately 1” range).
For horses under 14 hands or horses with slim fetlocks, you may have to remove one of the balls.
Once the desired length is achieved, secure the end by wrapping it around the cord and then pull the end of the cord back through the small loop on the bottom of the toggle.
Push the knot as close as possible to the toggle, keeping the cord from loosening and sliding through the toggle, this is the preferred method of adjustment when the bracelets are used on a variety of different sized horses.
If you do not need to adjust the bracelets between horses, you can also secure the cord's end with a simple knot. When choosing this method, make sure the knot is as close as possible to the toggle, as shown in the picture below.
Attention!
A simple knot will get tighter while in use and may become hard to open with the bracelets' use or if they become wet. Additional tools may be required to loosen the knot, such as a nail.
To shorten the bracelets, reverse the above process.
Placing the bracelets on the horse.
We suggest introducing your horse to the bracelets without out a rider mounted!
Place the bracelet(s) on the desired fetlocks making sure that the buckle is connected correctly and free of debris.
Make sure the bracelets are not too loose or too tight.
When attached to the horse, the bracelets should have some slack to achieve the desired effect; however, if the bracelets have too much slack, the breakaway buckle may open involuntarily while in use.
It is best to remove boots and bell boots when using the bracelets.
Slowly introduce your horse to the bracelets by hand-walking or lungeing or with a qualified ground person. Different horses may have different reactions, even if used to having objects placed on their legs, such as bell boots or pastern bands.
The bracelets are not intended for everyday use. Short sessions of max 10-15 minutes are recommended initially with some days without using the bracelets to avoid fatigue and muscle soreness. Always implement regular walk/rest breaks during the training sessions. Individual results may vary, and if any gait irregularity is noted, the use of the bracelets must be ceased immediately, and veterinary attention is advised.
For more advice regarding the use of Bal-Aid Equine Tactile bracelets and how they can support and help you with your horse’s training/rehabilitation, please contact us at info@fpequine.com
IMPORTANT!
• Before use, the bracelets must be securely attached to the horse’s leg via the safety clip
• Do not remove the bracelet by pulling the buckle ends apart; always release the buckle by pushing in the sides then open it.
• Examine bracelets before each use; if the bracelets appear flawed, cease immediately.
• Store bracelets away from direct sun and extreme heat or cold, in a dry area.
• Only use soap and water to clean bracelets. Do not use any petroleum-based products for cleaning. Always store your bracelet dry in the carrying case.
• Keep your bracelets clean by removing debris from the toggle and the buckles after using it.
Placing The XC Clip
The XC clip was developed for use outside of the arena or while galloping or jumping, as the breakaway buckle of the bracelets may open during such high impact activities. Implementing the XC clip will secure the buckle and prevent the bracelet from getting lost without compromising the bracelet's breakaway function.
While placing the bracelet on the leg, place the XC clip with the buckle still opened to reduce tension.
Insert the clip through both ends of the buckle.
Pull the end of the loop over the rubber ball and close the buckle, ensuring that the rubber band does not get stuck in the buckle.
To remove the XC clip, open the buckle first, then reverse the process.
DISCLAIMER
Bal-Aid Equine Tactile Bracelets should only be incorporated into mounted work when the horse is fully accustomed to wearing the Bal-Aid Equine Tactile Bracelets (as outlined in the user guide). Do not use the Bal-Aid Equine Tactile Bracelet on horses with undiagnosed lameness or clinical conditions. When in doubt, seek veterinary advice before using the Bal-Aid Equine Tactile Bracelets. As always, equine activities involve risk; by using the Bal-Aid Equine Tactile Bracelet, you agree to accept the risk associated with equine activities. Neither FP Equine nor any authorized distributor or retailer of the Bal-Aid Equine Tactile Bracelet will be held liable for any injury, damage resulting from the use of the Bal-Aid Equine Tactile Bracelets to either person or horse. Full responsibility lies with the individual who chooses to use the Bal-Aid Equine Tactile Bracelets for any horse under his or her care/training. Always wear a helmet when using Bal-Aid Equine Tactile Bracelets. Bal-Aid Equine Tactile Bracelets are not a gimmick. Our product is based on scientific research related to equine proprioception and how to improve equine locomotion, or in lay terms, how to help your horse become the athlete it was destined to be. We strongly believe that a straight and balanced horse is a sound horse.