horses

A horse isn’t steering correctly if they’re crooked in their body. They need to be relaxed, willing, and straight. The term straight can be misleading when working on a circle. It’s when the horse is bent through their body in the direction they’re traveling. If they’re traveling on a 50-meter circle, then their body should...

Positive reinforcement is a type of training. It has been known to have many benefits when used with horses. In simple terms, when the horse gives the desired response they receive a reward. A reward is usually a treat, though scratches can be used in some cases. Many trainers that turn to positive reinforcement or...

Most farms have chickens. They can be very beneficial to have around. Not only will you enjoy farm-fresh eggs every morning, but they’re great at keeping bugs under control. You can reduce the flies and ticks on your horse farm will a small flock of chickens and/or guinea fowl. You won’t believe the difference they...

With longer days here, your horse is likely shedding out their winter coat. The sunlight encourages them to shed. For horse owners, it means being covered in hair every time you go to the barn. It’ll be all over your sweater, pants, saddle pad, cinch, everywhere you can imagine. If you’d like to speed up...

Do you want a more responsive horse? You need to learn to ride with your seat and legs then. Often beginners are quick to grab the reins, but the bit should be used an as enforcer. Your seat and legs are your first cues! Once you master this, you’ll notice more fluid movements and better...

A Horse By Nature: Managing Emotional and Mental Stress in Horses for Improved Welfare By Mary Ann Simonds | (Trafalgar Square Books) Wild horses display a myriad of fascinating behaviors for anyone who has the time to sit at a distance with binoculars and watch.  That is precisely what horse ecologist, equine behaviorist, and author...

Those that own mares should familiarize themselves with their horse’s heat cycle. With spring in the air, your mare is likely to begin a 21-day estrus cycle. She becomes receptive to breeding. If you’re wondering why this matters to you, some mares become more difficult to handle during this time. They may need a day...

If you look inside your horse’s mouth, you’ll see a lot of teeth! Like us, they’ll vary in size and purpose. Most horses have between 36 and 42 teeth. Their adult teeth will continue to grow throughout their life. Riders often examine their horse’s teeth to determine an approximate age. The grooves and wear patterns...