The philosophy of our modern day society is often described as impermanence. Instant gratification through acquisition of “things” is a common theme in life for many and accompanying this is the reality that things which are no longer useful are readily disposed of. Much to the chagrin of animal lovers, this is also a reality for many of the animals we keep in our lives....
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With today’s medical advances, research, and improved management, horses are living longer and longer lives. In the past, most horses were considered old when they reached their late teens. These days, it’s not uncommon for horses to live into their late 20s or even into their 30s, allowing us to spend plenty of quality time with our elder equine friends. Proper management is key to ensuring that the older horse is happy and comfortable throughout his golden years....
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Horses have an extraordinarily large digestive system — compared to humans they have more than double the length if you were to place them side-by-side, start to finish! This long path for food digestion is packed with twists and turns (and the inability to vomit), so it’s easy to see how digestive upsets can occur in our equine partners. Here's a quick overview to give you a better understanding of how we can feed to our horses’ needs while keeping in mind how they evolved....
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Each horse is an individual and will have their own specific nutritional needs. With that in mind, there are several categories into which seniors can be divided based on their nutritional needs....
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Ever since the wheel was first invented around 3,500 BC in Mesopotamia as a wooden disc with a hole in the middle for some form of axle, creative Sumarian minds were buzzing. They were, after all, already planting crops, herding animals, and had a pretty impressive social order. But getting the wheel contraption right took a bit of creative genius....
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High performance riders often attribute their success to a team of committed supporters and professionals who help them achieve their best while keeping their horse’s best interest at heart. But successful teams aren’t simply a collection of farriers, grooms, owners, saddle fitters, sponsors, sports psychologists, and veterinarians. According to three top-level Canadian riders — amateur jumper rider Stephanie Valdes, 2020 Paralympian dressage rider Winona Hartvikson, and veteran three-day eventing Olympian Kyle Carter — there’s a lot more to it....
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For generations, riders and horse lovers have been enthralled by the mystique of horsemen (and women), but many struggle to define what a “horseman” actually is. Is a horseman someone with a laundry list of skills such as starting young horses, nailing on shoes, being knowledgeable about horse care, and having the ability to train horses to the highest levels? Or is a horseman someone who lives in the moment, has mastered their emotions, and understands a horse’s mind? Perhaps a horseman embraces all of these attributes; perhaps none....
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Someone interrupted my rhapsody during a clinic last week praising the value of calisthenics for developing equine athletes. What exactly did I mean by calisthenics? the student asked. She was probably not alone in wondering, lost as I was describing the power of these exercises....
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Analysis can feel pretty good. Tearing apart the details of a problem or task tends to bring forward feelings of control. And as human beings, we all love being in control. Riders seem to enjoy it even more. It must have something to do with our very challenging sport, the fact that our teammates (horses) sometimes like to grab a little of that control themselves....
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Horses are naturally designed to live outside. With shelter from the wind and elements and access to fresh water and good quality hay, most horses can live quite comfortably surrounded by their companions without a stable. This is not always a convenient option for their human counterparts....
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Morris Animal Foundation is remembering the life and incredible impact of Betty White, President Emeritus, after news of her passing on December 31, 2021, at the age of 99 years....
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New legislation passed in France will require all horse owners to demonstrate sufficient knowledge of equine needs that promote well-being....
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The FEI looks at some of the best horse breeds to match with riders who have less experience. These seven breeds are often touted as ideal for novice riders....
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Regardless of the type of riding you do, the possibility of your horse picking up a leg injury is a reality. You can minimise that risk by using appropriate protection, like boots or wraps. When fitted and used properly, these can help protect against accidental knocks, scratches, and scrapes....
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