Have you ever noticed your horse reacting negatively to being saddled? Girth aversion, commonly known as girthiness in horses, can affect any breed, from working horses to athletic sport horses. Often caused by issues like poor saddle fit, gastric ulcers, or musculoskeletal discomfort, it can significantly impact a horse’s comfort and performance. I’ve seen this …
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed managing an excitable or anxious horse, you’re not alone. Stressful situations like traveling, vet visits, or competitions can challenge even seasoned horse owners. Drawing from over 25 years of personal experience with Thoroughbreds and Quarter Horses, as well as extensive research and insights from professional trainers and equine studies, I …
Ever find yourself wondering which are the best horse supplements for your equine companion? Like you, I’ve often asked myself this, especially when trying to manage things like stiff joints or digestive issues. It can be frustrating to see a horse struggle. A good diet needs to start with high-quality forage, with concentrates added when …
⚠️ VETERINARY DISCLAIMER: This Is Educational Information Only Digestive issues such as colic, impaction, and founder can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. This article explains how horse digestion works—it does NOT replace veterinary care. ALWAYS consult your equine veterinarian before changing feed programs or treating digestive symptoms. Emergency colic symptoms require immediate vet attention. …
Every stride your horse takes contributes to their strength and vitality. But not all exercise is created equal. Carefully designed horse exercise programs are essential for developing strength, flexibility, and endurance while preventing injuries. This guide explores tailored routines to promote equine health and soundness, offering actionable advice and personal insights to help you get …
Veterinary disclaimer: The information in this guide — including the ice protocol and triage steps — is based on Miles Henry’s 30 years of professional equine management and is intended for educational and first-aid purposes only. Laminitis is a critical medical emergency. This content does not replace professional veterinary diagnosis, radiographs, or individualized treatment plans. …
Performance horses — especially Thoroughbreds in heavy training — commonly run short on Vitamin E, selenium, magnesium, zinc, copper, and hoof-support nutrients when fed primarily hay-based diets. These deficiencies often show up first as poor hoof quality, dull coat, muscle stiffness, anxiety, or slow recovery after work. After 30 years managing racehorses in Louisiana, I’ve …
A horse’s coat reflects its overall health. A glossy, vibrant coat signals vitality, while dullness or irritation often points to underlying issues. Various skin conditions can impact your horse’s coat, affecting their appearance, comfort, and well-being. This guide explores common horse skin conditions, their effects on coat health, and actionable solutions for prevention and treatment. …
⚖️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides owner-level parasite management information based on practical experience and current veterinary guidelines. It does not replace consultation with your veterinarian. Always work with your vet to develop appropriate deworming protocols for your specific horses and property. I’ve managed parasites across Louisiana for three decades. I’ve dealt with strongyle-induced colic …
Owning a horse is a rewarding journey, but it comes with significant responsibilities. This guide provides a comprehensive horse care checklist broken into daily, weekly, and monthly tasks. Alongside practical tips, it includes engaging stories and helpful resources to make horse care easier and more enjoyable for new and experienced owners alike. Daily Horse Care …