To better understand horses and the challenges they face, it is important to learn about the dangerous predators that threaten their safety. By doing so, we can approach training and handling with empathy and respect, setting the foundation for a successful partnership. In this article, I share the top 5 predators of wild horses and …
I’m in a family of horse and music lovers. We like hanging out at the barn, riding, and working with our horses. One thing that makes it even more enjoyable is listening to music while we ride. I’ve found that music can significantly affect how we ride. An upbeat and energetic music playlist is great …
I was at the stables, examining the young horses for sale, when a friend of mine asked me if I was buying a horse as an investment. I laughed and told him that I was making an investment in my own happiness. But as I looked into the eyes of a chestnut filly, I couldn’t …
The symptoms were subtle at first: a slight stiffness in the hindquarters after a routine workout and a strange “tying up” sensation that looked like simple fatigue. But for a draft-cross or a heavy-muscled Quarter Horse, these aren’t just quirks—they are the flashing red lights of Equine Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy (EPSM). I’m Miles Henry (Louisiana …
A horse’s well-being hinges on preparedness. Emergencies can escalate quickly, and knowing how to respond effectively can make the difference between a minor issue and a life-threatening situation. This guide equips you with essential horse first aid skills, covering common emergencies, preventive measures, and actionable tips. Assessing Vital Signs: The First Step in Horse First …
Are racehorses given steroids? Yes. Racehorses have been given anabolic steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs, although anabolic steroids are prohibited in modern horse racing. These substances have been used to increase muscle development, speed recovery, and get a performance edge, but they can also create serious health risks for horses. Drug use in horse racing …
I’ve spent years around racehorses, trail horses, and new riders. The safest beginners aren’t necessarily the boldest ones; they’re the people who take lessons, ask questions, learn the basics patiently, and ride horses suited to their current ability. Start at a lesson barn with a qualified instructor, not on your own or on a horse …
Quick Answer: A horse’s diet must be built on forage first, requiring 1.5–2% of their body weight in hay or pasture daily. Supplement this with 24/7 access to clean water (5–15+ gallons) and a consistent feeding schedule. Pro Tip: Always feed hay before grain. This buffers the stomach and is a key step in preventing …
While walking through a friend’s working barn here in Louisiana, my son heard a horse whinnying and a donkey braying from the same pasture. He pointed to the pair and asked why they were kept together. The answer was simple: the two animals were being used for crossbreeding. Horse and donkey breeding is the intentional …
Spanish horses are renowned for their athleticism, intelligence, and beauty. As a lifelong horse owner, I’m particularly drawn to the Andalusian. I’ll never forget watching one execute a perfect piaffe—it was a moment of pure power and grace that left me in awe. These breeds have shaped equestrian traditions worldwide. In this article, we’ll explore …
