Wow-the battle of the bulge – not just a concern for us, middle- aged humans but our horses as well! There’s an increase in the number of obese horses found in the leisure industry in industrialized countries and it’s now recognized as a real equine health and welfare concern. Here are some highlights and suggestions … Read more
After a fall, the traditional prescription is to get back in the saddle. “Seven falls make a rider!”. Horse stops at a fence ? “Throw your heart over and your horse’ll go too!” As a young rider on a regular refuser, that adage didn’t inspire confidence in me! Despite approaching a fence with my jaw … Read more
I heard some riders joking that their barn policy is that anyone who falls off during a lesson buys their instructor a Coke. Cute, but does reveal and underlying assumption: Falling off is a necessary evil of learning to ride… but is it? Memories of my early days at the local riding school include eager … Read more
A subtle jerk and spur. An aggressive back-up. Barking out “WHOA!” with a scowl. As a judge I see them (and sometimes DQ them). As a coach I talk riders logically through them. And I sadly recall a few of my own! In the fishbowl of the horse show, it’s natural to lose it when … Read more
What are the welfare challenges facing pleasure and competition horses? A research study, led by academics at the University of Bristol’s School of Vet Sciences set to find out. I thought it was cool that experts from across the equine industry contributed to the research- vets, farriers, trainers, welfare charities, breed and competition associations. As … Read more