A horse's nutrition for the most part these days is largely dependent upon the experience, knowledge, but most importantly the "attitude" of its owner.  Attitude plays a key factor in almost everything we do, and often determines our successes or failures in our relationships, our work and, in this case, the horses we love and care for.

 

As I continue to work with horse owners in helping them with balanced nutrition plans for their horses, I find that it is…

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Rescuing a horse is a noble cause, and it seems that there is always a horse in desperate need of a good home. But before you agree to rescue a horse, it is important to consider whether you are really ready to take on a rescue. Below are just a few of the resources that you will want to have before you consider taking on a rescue horse.

Adequate Barn…

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I’ve been thinking about the words we use to label our relationship with the animals in our lives. It isn’t politically correct to say we own a horse; instead, we are its caretaker. That dog doesn’t belong to you, you’re its guardian. Swell.

Referring to an animal as a family member is the norm; it’s common to hear someone in the barn refer to themselves as Big Red’s Mom, or say that Bandit is their fur-child. No shortage of Fur-Daddies either. I understand the intention and if the…

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Its been almost a year since I first started out, and I am about to complete my level 2 Equestrian.  I am so happy with the progress, but most of all, so grateful for the horse that has become a true friend. We have learned how to 'talk' with each other, or I should say, we continue to learn, and he now respects my 'leg' as a rider.  How far we have come, given that initially, I couldn't even find my balance, and hadn't even understood that the process is life-long, not a matter of 'levels'…

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So one thing that really grinds my gears is when ignorant people jump into the ownership of horses (or any animal really) just because they've ridden a few times and hey- there's nothing to it, right? They think that having a horse will be a fun thing to do a weekend or two out of the month, and it'll sure make a pretty lawn ornament when it's not in use! Kind of like a pretty sports car. But then they get their my little pony home, and discover that not only do they not know how to ride, but… Continue

In light of recent events I feel compelled to write about "responsible horse ownership". While this may seem best suited for the new or first-time owner, I have seen hard evidence that many "experienced" horse owners may benefit from the following as well.



A common state amongst professionals serving the equine community is one of bewilderment. Many of us visit farms, barns & private acreages, seeing what I describe as "WWYT syndrome"; or, "What Were You Thinking?" While I…

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