Horses, like other pets, are great companions. However, they do require a considerable commitment of time and money. Before buying a horse or pony, consider exactly what is drawing you to horses and ponies.
Has your child been asking for a pony? Do you want to finally fulfill that childhood wish of your own and get yourself a horse? Maybe you're looking for an investment, or perhaps you just like to ride... Read more >
Today there are hundreds of types of horses, with breeds defined by their appearance, size, temperament, and more. When you compare a humble pony to a massive Clydesdale, it's hard to believe that they share a common ancestry.
Throughout history, the horse has played a vital role in transportation and agriculture, and more recently, in sport and leisure. Horses have been bred throughout the ages to... Read more >
A Horse's PrayerGive me food and drink; and care for me. And when the day's work is done, shelter me. Give me a clean bed and leave me not too small a place in the stable.
Talk to me, for your voice often takes the place of reins. Be good to me and I shall serve you more gladly and love you. —Rochester Mounted Police, NY
Horses are complex animals with individual requirements. And, although their... Read more >
Knowing how to prevent injury and disease is probably more important than learning how to treat most health problems. The best ways to learn about preventive health for your horse is to spend time at the stables learning everything that you can. If a horse is injured, observe the behaviors of owners and trainers. Chances are, they're taking measures to make sure the horse is safe and protected from further injury... Read more >
So, you know how to ride and love the horse, but you're getting tired of improving your seat and wish that riding could be a bit more...well, exciting?
You've come to the right place. Not only will we help you decide what type of sport might be best for you, but we can help you figure out what you need (and what it might cost you—or your parents!), and how to do it safely.
As you know, every sport... Read more >
Physical Therapy
Equine physical therapy aims to minimize inflammation, swelling, and pain, and increase mobility and flexibility. Treatment for equine lameness typically involves passive range of motion exercises or walking, coupled with one or more of the therapies below. In some cases it is combined with a systemic anti-inflammatory agent and/or a topical anti-inflammatory sweat such as DMSO or... Read more >
You have a horse and a brand new saddle, so you feel ready. Wait! Scan the list below to make sure you're not leaving out any basic riding gear or apparel. Experts tell us that owners on a shoestring can get by with about $3,500 a year; serious participation and good equipment may cost up to $30,000!
A Horse
You might already own a horse, but you should be realistic about veterinarian bills for emergencies... Read more >
Half the failures in life arise from pulling in one's horse as he is leaping.—Augustus Hare (1792-1834) English Theologian
If you enjoy the great outdoors and love being out there on trail rides, alone with nature and your horse, you might enjoy the sport of endurance riding. Of course, this sport is essentially a race against the clock. Having a horse that has a great deal of stamina, is easily... Read more >