Winter can feel long, dark, and repetitive — for both riders and horses. But enrichment doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. From sensory play and puzzle feeders to confidence-building exercises and mindful grooming sessions, small activities can make a big difference in your horse’s mental well-being. These simple winter-friendly ideas are designed to keep your horse engaged, curious, and emotionally balanced, even when turnout and riding time are limited.
10 Things Every Horse Owner Learns Eventually… Usually the Hard Way
Every horse owner eventually discovers that barn life comes with its own set of unwritten rules—many of them learned through experience, humor, and a fair bit of mud. This week’s article highlights ten universal truths we all come to understand, from the mystery of disappearing grooming tools to the reality that horses will always outsmart even the best-laid plans. Lighthearted, relatable, and rooted in real barn-life moments, this is the perfect read for anyone who loves the joys (and chaos) of horses.
Debunking the Myths About Palestine: History, Identity, and the Truth Behind “There Are Other Arab Countries”
Understanding the symbols tied to Israel and Palestine is essential for untangling a conflict often clouded by misinformation. This article breaks down the difference between religious symbols, national symbols, cultural symbols, and political ideologies—clarifying what the Star of David actually represents, why the olive tree is deeply rooted in Palestinian identity, and how visual maps illustrate decades of land loss. Clear, accessible, and grounded in history, this piece helps readers distinguish identity from ideology and symbolism from politics.
Is Riding Horses Ethical?
Riding horses is a tradition thousands of years old — but in today’s world, with growing awareness of animal welfare and widely publicized training controversies, many people are asking a difficult question: Is riding actually ethical? This week’s article takes a balanced, science-based look at what horses experience physically and emotionally, how riders can unintentionally cross ethical lines, and what responsible, horse-centered partnership truly looks like. Riding isn’t inherently harmful — but it becomes ethical only when we listen to the horse, understand learning theory and biomechanics, and make choices that support welfare, clarity, and soundness.
The Thoracic Sling: Why Your Horse Falls on the Forehand (and How to Fix It)
Most riders focus on getting the horse “round,” “long and low,” or “more forward,” but none of those things fix the real reason horses fall on the forehand: a weak thoracic sling. This week’s article breaks down the science behind the muscle system that lifts the ribcage, explains why long and low often makes the problem worse, and shows why it’s completely normal for horses to come above the bit when they’re learning real self-carriage. With clear biomechanics and practical exercises, this post offers a true roadmap to helping your horse move lighter, sounder, and more balanced.
Debunking 5 Common Myths About Palestine: What the World Needs to Understand
Misinformation about Palestine has shaped global perception for decades, often overshadowing the real history, lived experiences, and human rights issues Palestinians face every day. This week’s article breaks down five of the most common myths — from claims that the conflict is “too complicated,” to misconceptions about 1948, Gaza’s status, Palestinian identity, and the idea that supporting Palestinian freedom is antisemitic. Each myth is clarified with accessible, factual explanations that help readers understand the reality behind the headlines and the importance of speaking truthfully about Palestine.
Winter Supplements: What Your Horse Actually Needs (and What You Can Skip)
Winter is the season when many riders start to panic about their horse’s nutrition — but most horses need far fewer supplements than we think. This week’s article breaks down what winter actually changes in a horse’s diet, which supplements are truly backed by science, which ones only help in specific situations, and which products are mostly just clever marketing. I also share what Lucas stays on during the winter months and why Grand Meadows remains a trusted part of his routine. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed in the feed room this time of year, this guide will help simplify your choices and support your horse more effectively.
Cloning Elite Horses: Progress or Ethical Problem? What Riders Need to Know
Cloning has officially entered the dressage world — and with it comes a wave of excitement, controversy, and ethical questions many riders have never had to consider. As elite competitors begin cloning their top horses, scientists are now suggesting that clones may even retain “phantom memory” from the original horse. But what does cloning really mean for sport-horse welfare, genetics, and the future of our sport? This week’s article breaks down the science, the risks, the promises, and the ethics behind equine cloning, and why thoughtful conversation is more important than ever.
The New Year in Palestine
While much of the world begins January with resolutions and fresh-start energy, the new year looks very different in Palestine. There is no reset button, no pause in hardship—yet hope still appears in quiet, powerful ways. This week’s article reflects on what the new year means under occupation, how Palestinian families hold on to resilience and tradition, and what we can learn from a people who continue to greet each year with dignity, strength, and unwavering hope.
Improving Rider Fitness in Winter: Small Changes That Make a Big Difference
As riders set their goals for the new year, improving fitness often lands at the top of the list—but winter makes staying motivated feel harder than ever. This week’s article breaks down how small, realistic habits can make a big difference in your strength, balance, and confidence in the saddle. No gym memberships, no pressure, and no guilt—just simple, sustainable ways to support both you and your horse through the colder months.
Dressage Discussions 