There are trail rides, and then there are trail rides that make you wonder just how far you and your horse could really go. Endurance riding takes that question to a whole new level, with horse-and-rider teams covering miles of challenging terrain while learning to pace themselves, work together, and … Read More
We spend a lot of time thinking about our horses’ saddles, tack, nutrition, and training, but how often do we stop to think about what’s directly underneath their feet? Arena footing may not be the most exciting part of building or maintaining a riding arena, but it plays a big … Read More
Whether you’re leading a horse to pasture, holding one for the farrier, or simply grooming in the barn aisle, safe horse handling starts long before something goes wrong. Horses are constantly communicating through their body language, and learning to recognize those subtle signals can make everyday interactions safer and less … Read More
By the time summer rolls around, many of us have settled into a comfortable routine of longer rides, greener pastures, and more time outside with our horses. Since the biggest flush of spring grass has passed, it’s easy to assume the risk of pasture-related health issues has passed, too. But … Read More
Most horse owners pay attention to their trailer tires. We notice tread wear, check air pressure, and worry about blowouts before a long haul. But hidden behind those wheels are some of the most important—and most overlooked—parts of the entire trailer. Wheel bearings may not be exciting, but when they … Read More
Most of us spend a lot of time thinking about our horses before a trip. We check feed, water, tack, health papers, and weather forecasts. But how often do we really think about the trailer? I’ll admit there have been times when I hooked up the trailer assuming everything was … Read More
Leaving Blaine, April 12, 2021 for Colorado
Strategies for Barn, Farm, and Arena Every winter I create a to-do list of improvements for my farm that will make surviving the season with horses more bearable. I want to ride and train all winter comfortably, keep my horses fit, and spend less time miserably cold and performing drudgery … Read More
An Introduction for Horse Owners About five years ago I was experiencing some knee pain. It hurt to push the wheelbarrow, walk up and down stairs, and worst—it interfered with my ability to ride well. After a few months of hobbling around, I went to the doctor. He examined and … Read More
When we enter into a relationship with a horse, one of the most important skills to develop is resiliency. If we stick with horses and horse sport long enough, we’ll inevitably be faced with all matter of adversity. It’s profoundly important to find the mettle and perspective to deal with … Read More
