Like everyone else, springtime finds me cleaning tack and making repairs. Trusted tack is like an old friend. I remember each piece, where and why I bought it, and the horses who wore it best. Over the years I’ve gotten less flashy and increasingly functional, but well-made equipment is timeless. … Read More
Pressure plays an important role in the life of a horse. Horsemen have capitalized on the use of pressure and its corresponding release for centuries. Horses can be taught to move off of pressure or to strain mightily against it. In this article we will talk mostly about teaching them … Read More
I’m a big believer in every horseman having a sharp, easily accessible knife on them when they’re around stock. The knife is not just to cut baling twine, slice bacon, or whittle with when you’re bored. It can save lives—maybe yours. Knives are one of the ten essentials every rider … Read More
The hock joint of the horse, also known as the tarsus, is very important to both hindlimb flexion and rotation. I am frequently asked about hock pain in horses. Pain in the hock can stem from numerous locations around the joint, but also inside the joint. The hock is comprised … Read More
The conversation goes something like this: “I’m trying out a new dressage saddle. Will you let me know if it works for my horse?” This is when I start to get a little uncomfortable. I always answer, “Yes, but I’m not a saddle fitter; I’m a riding instructor.” I do … Read More
The Northwest Horse Source Needs Your Help! With the recent changes due to COVID-19 and the evolution to more online shopping we need your help to keep our magazines in the feed/tack stores. We’ve had a few reports of magazines being hard to find, stuck away on some shelf out … Read More
Today, the Department of Natural Resources, Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, and Department of Fish and Wildlife announced that camping in 22 counties will begin to reopen on Monday, June 1. Counties reopening for camping are all actively in Phase 2 of Gov. Jay Inslee’s “Safe Start” plan and … Read More
Currently overnight camping is still closed at the Les Hilde trailhead, lily and lizard lake campgrounds(Blanchard) and also dispersed camping on state land in counties still under the phase 1. READ ARTICLE REGARDING ALL CAMPGROUNDS HERE June 18th will be DNR fire training day like last year in the Harry … Read More
Have you thought about taking on a few boarders to help make ends meet? If you keep your horses at home, it might seem like a way to make some extra cash. Or maybe you’re considering building or buying a horse facility and starting a business. Can you make a … Read More
Many articles are written on how to find a good instructor. This article will focus on how to be a good student. Good instructors truly want to help their students learn. Instructors prepare lesson plans and bring their best into the arena. They want their students to succeed and have … Read More
