Every horse leaves the track eventually. I was reminded of that recently, watching my Goldencents colt get tacked up for the first time — one of those moments that makes you think about the whole arc, not just the next race. Retirement plays out in many different ways, and most of it depends on decisions …
What are the greatest horse racing tracks in the world? Churchill Downs, Saratoga, and Keeneland anchor the American championship calendar — from the Kentucky Derby in May to the Breeders’ Cup in October Royal Ascot, Epsom, and Cheltenham define British racing across flat and jump disciplines — the original Derbies, the Gold Cup, and five …
There’s nothing like a well-worn pair of cowboy boots. Whether you’re kicking up dust at the rodeo or working around the house, your boots are essential for every journey. But scuffed, dried-out leather won’t stand the test of time or the rigors of the trail. Keeping your boots in prime condition doesn’t have to be …
If you’ve ever had a horse that’s “just not quite right,” you know how frustrating it is when everyone sees something different, and nobody can put a finger on the problem. AI lameness detection in horses gives owners and vets another way to measure small movement changes that can be hard to see with the …
Found your dream horse after a thorough vet exam? Now, it’s time to learn how to buy a horse the smart way—by negotiating every detail: from the price and trial periods to the horse sale contract itself. With over 25 years of buying horses, including a barrel racing prospect where I secured a 14-day trial …
Finding the right horse is exciting, but this is also where many buyers get in trouble. The horse may look great, ride well, and come with a story you want to believe – but you don’t really know what you’re buying until you’ve had a proper pre-purchase exam. What is a horse pre-purchase exam? A …
Horse breeds by color capture the imagination with their striking and unique appearances. While many horses come in a wide range of hues, some breeds are defined by a single, signature coat — like the jet-black Friesian or the golden Haflinger. This guide explores these distinctive breeds, offering insights into their origins, genetics, and care. …
Experience & Veterinary Disclosure This guide draws on 30+ years of hands-on experience managing horses at every stage of life — including senior Thoroughbreds and other breeds managed in Louisiana, where regional forage quality varies significantly by season. I am not a veterinarian. Always consult your equine vet before making significant changes to the diet …
If your older horse is stiffer in the mornings, slower through the turns, or losing topline, you’re probably wondering how much exercise is still right for him, and what kind will help rather than hurt. Quick answer: Most senior horses do best with regular, gentle movement: daily turnout plus light, low-impact work several days a …
If your horse has arthritis, you may already have Bute in the tack room. You may also have used Banamine when your vet was treating a different kind of pain. You want to keep him comfortable, but you’ve also heard these drugs can cause ulcers, kidney trouble, and colon problems. Quick answer: NSAIDs such as …
