If you've spent any time around a barn after horses finish working, you've probably seen every possible approach to leg care. One horse gets ice boots. Another is standing in cold water. Someone else is applying poultice and wrapping all four legs. Meanwhile, another rider untacks their horse, hoses the sweat off, and heads home … Continue reading Ice, Poultice, Standing Wraps, or Nothing? A Guide to Post-Ride Leg Care
Why Does My Horse Keep Tripping?
Does your horse occasionally trip, or is it happening often enough to raise concern? While an occasional stumble is normal, repeated tripping can be an early sign of poor balance, hoof imbalance, fatigue, pain, or even a neurological condition. In this article, we explore the most common reasons horses trip, when it's time to call your veterinarian, and what you can do to help keep your horse moving safely and comfortably.
Barefoot vs. Shod Horses: Is One Better Than the Other?
Is it better for horses to go barefoot or wear shoes? It's one of the oldest debates in the equestrian world, but the answer isn't as simple as choosing one side. This article explores the science behind hoof function, the role of the frog and digital cushion, and the advantages and disadvantages of both barefoot and shod horses. Learn when shoes may be beneficial, when barefoot management can be a great option, and why the best choice depends on the individual horse—not a one-size-fits-all philosophy.
Bitless Bridles: Are They Really Kinder Than a Bit?
Are bitless bridles really kinder than riding with a bit? It's one of the most debated topics in the horse world, but the answer isn't as simple as many social media posts suggest. This article explores the different types of bitless bridles, their advantages and disadvantages, how they compare to traditional bits, and why the rider's hands, proper fit, and thoughtful training matter far more than whether there's metal in the horse's mouth. Backed by equine research and industry guidance, this article encourages horse owners to look beyond the "bitless vs. bitted" debate and focus on what truly promotes horse welfare.
Wildfire Smoke and Horses: How Poor Air Quality Affects Your Horse
Canadian wildfire smoke has created poor air quality across much of North America, raising important questions for horse owners. How does smoke affect equine respiratory health, when is it safe to ride, and what management strategies can help protect your horse? Drawing on recommendations from the University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and other veterinary resources, this article explores the science behind wildfire smoke exposure, signs to watch for, recovery guidelines, and practical steps you can take to keep your horse healthy during periods of poor air quality.
Standing vs Running Martingales (And Why We Should Question How They’re Used)
Martingales are one of the most commonly used pieces of tack in the horse world—but are they always used with a clear purpose? In this article, I break down the differences between standing, running, and other types of martingales, what they’re actually designed to do, and why their use is worth questioning. By understanding how each type functions, we can start to distinguish between tools that support the horse and those that may simply be used out of habit or tradition.
Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM): What It Is, How It Spreads, and What to Look For
Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM) is one of the most serious neurological diseases affecting horses, yet it is often misunderstood. In this article, I break down what EPM actually is, how it is transmitted, why some horses develop it while others don’t, and the early warning signs to watch for. With increased awareness and early detection, outcomes can improve significantly—making it critical for horse owners to recognize even subtle changes.
Why Your Horse Won’t Bend (And Why Pulling the Inside Rein Makes It Worse)
If your horse feels stiff or resistant in one direction, it’s easy to assume the solution is more inside rein—but true bend doesn’t come from the hands. In this article, I break down why horses struggle to bend, why pulling the inside rein often makes the problem worse, and what actually creates correct bend through the body. Understanding this can completely change how your horse feels in the contact and in their overall balance.
Equiderma Product Review: Do They Actually Work for Sensitive Skin?
Managing skin issues in horses can be challenging, especially when dealing with itchiness, sensitivity, or dermatitis. In this review, I share my experience using three Equiderma products on a horse with particularly sensitive skin, along with the science behind their key ingredients. From daily prevention to deeper treatment, these products have become a consistent part of my routine for keeping skin healthy and irritation under control.
What Roads Can Palestinians Use? Understanding Travel and Road Restrictions in the West Bank
Getting from one place to another in the West Bank isn’t always as simple as choosing the shortest route. Road access is shaped by a combination of checkpoints, permits, and surrounding infrastructure, often making travel longer and less predictable. In this article, I break down how road restrictions work, how they connect to the systems already discussed, and what this looks like in everyday life.
Dressage Discussions 