Saddling a horse might seem like a straightforward task, but its implications run deep. Safety for the rider is paramount and an incorrectly saddled horse is a hazard. If the saddle slides, tips, or even falls off during a ride, the consequences can be severe, ranging from minor injuries to …
The terms “founder” and “laminitis” are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different stages and severities of a similar hoof-related condition in horses. Both involve inflammation and damage to the sensitive laminae that connect the hoof wall to the coffin bone within the hoof capsule. The key difference between …
Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) is a condition in horses characterised by a group of metabolic abnormalities that increase the risk of developing laminitis. It’s similar in some ways to metabolic syndrome in humans, which is a risk factor for diabetes and cardiovascular disease. EMS is particularly prevalent in pony breeds …
Cushing’s Disease, widely recognised within the equine community, is a common hormonal disorder that predominantly afflicts older horses and ponies. While the name ‘Cushing’s Disease’ is borrowed from a similar condition in humans and dogs, the equine variant is distinct in its pathology, targeting a different facet of the pituitary …
The journey to becoming a confident rider is often riddled with fear and anxiety, especially for beginners. The enormity of the animal you’re faced with in your first lesson, paired with the unpredictability of the experience, can be as daunting as it is exciting. I wanted to go over some …
The classification of horses as hot, warm, and cold bloods can be confusing. As mammals all horses are warm-blooded – they don’t need to lie around in the sun to summon energy for the day, although some do like to! These classifications are based on their temperament, build, and historical …
Jousting is a medieval sport that has captured the imaginations of people for centuries. It is a competition between two armoured knights on horseback who charge at each other with lances, with the goal of knocking their opponent off their horse. Jousting was a popular sport in the Middle Ages, …
Horseback riding is a wonderful way to experience the natural world. Riding through fields, woods, and along the beach allows you to connect with nature in a way that few other activities can. The rhythm of the horse’s gait and the sound of its hooves on the ground create a …
Horses, like humans, have a sweet tooth. Treats are a great way to reward your equine friend for good behaviour or to just show some love. However, store-bought horse treats can be expensive and may contain ingredients that are not healthy for your horse. Horses are perfectly happy eating simple …
Deciding when to wash your horse depends on various factors, including the horse’s activity level, the environment, health conditions, and specific events. To help you determine the right times to give your horse a full bath, consider the following: However, there are a few things to keep in mind when …
Grooming (brushing) a horse is an essential part of horse care and bonding. It helps keep the horse’s coat clean and shiny, stimulates blood flow to the skin, and allows you to check for injuries or other issues. For a basic kit you don’t need a lot. Other things you …
The Kentucky Derby, also known as the Run for the Roses, is one of the most prestigious horse races in the world. It is a Grade I stakes race for three-year-old Thoroughbreds, held annually on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The race is the …
