How-To

How to Make a First Aid Kit for Horses

Updated:

March 16, 2026

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Generally, first aid equipment is inexpensive, and you can create a comprehensive kit for a reasonable cost, saving yourself hundreds of dollars in unnecessary vet calls.

Thrush in Horses: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatment

Updated:

March 12, 2026

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Thrush is a prevalent hoof ailment in horses, typically resulting from a fungal infection that deteriorates the frog's tissue. This condition primarily develops in the sulci (grooves) on either side of the frog and in the central cleft. If neglected, thrush can spread to the deeper, more sensitive structures within the hoof, potentially leading to lameness.

Testing Horse Hay: From Sampling to Analysis

Updated:

March 4, 2026

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Buying hay for your horse can be a challenge whether you buy it a few bales at a time or purchase a year’s supply when it becomes available in the summer. Supply, price, and quality have always been important parameters to consider when buying hay for horses, but now, more than ever before, horse owners are becoming aware of the importance of the nutritional components of the hay they feed.

How to Choose a Commercial Horse Hauler

Updated:

March 3, 2026

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Of the various forms of commercial transport, one of the most demanding is arguably that of horse transport. Strangely, it also attracts the least qualified, the most poorly equipped, and the most fraudulent and dishonest operators. How does one wade through the ethical minefield created by illegitimate wannabes and scammers? I will offer a handful of tips to keep you and your horses safe...

Healing the Injured Horse with Fitness

Updated:

March 3, 2026

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When a horse suffers an injury, it’s essential to allow for a brief time of rest to aid in recovery. However, in many cases, movement itself can be a form of therapy. Not all exercise negatively impacts a horse's health—on the contrary, it can often enhance overall well-being. Therefore, restricting movement should only be considered in extreme situations.

The Distracted Horse: Building Focus Inside and Outside the Arena

Updated:

February 26, 2026

Jonathan Field, horse focus issues, gaining a horse’s attention, improving horse concentration, herd-bound horse behaviour, anxious horse separation, horse training fundamentals, rider leadership skills, building horse partnership

He’s attentive and responsive inside the arena, yet the moment you head out on a hack he seems to lose concentration. On his own he works beautifully, but introduce other horses and suddenly his focus drifts elsewhere.

Understanding Contracts in the Horse Industry

Updated:

February 25, 2026

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In the past, horse business transactions often relied on handshake agreements. Today, written contracts are increasingly common for buying and selling horses, as well as for services like training, leasing, breeding, and boarding. Contracts provide clarity and legal protection for all parties involved. As contracts become more prevalent in the horse industry, it’s important for horse owners and horse business owners to understand the basics of contract law. This guide will explain the key elements of a contract, offer tips for drafting horse-related contracts, and cover the common breeding contract.

How to Choose the Ideal Horseback Riding Vacation: Tips for Planning Your Getaway

Updated:

February 12, 2026

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As a photojournalist specializing in horseback riding vacations, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing incredible opportunities that I will always cherish. Through my work, I've had the chance to explore hidden corners of the world that most tourists never see and connect with fascinating people from across the globe who share a passion for horses. In my view, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in a new culture than from the saddle of a native horse, taking in the sights, sounds, and scents of a place.

Spring Horse Trailer Maintenance

Updated:

February 4, 2026

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When spring is just around the corner, our thoughts turn to riding, riding, and more riding. While not nearly as enrapturing, save some consideration for that lonely chariot outside, which gets our beloved steeds to and from events, shows, and trails. Every trailer that has been parked or stored for the winter should undergo a methodical inspection and maintenance routine before hitting the road each year. Safety should always be of primary concern, but comfort is important as well – every time a horse has an unpleasant trailering experience, he or she will go through that much more stress on the next trip.

The Essential Role of Farriers in Hoof Care: Why Certification Matters

Updated:

January 30, 2026

Farrier, Farriey, Ben Yager, American Farrier’s Association, equine trimming techniques, hoof-pastern alignment, farrier apprenticeship

For thousands of years, the horse has been our trusted companion, serving as a worker, athlete, and partner in everything from agriculture to competition. Whether they’re a trail riding companion, school horse, ranch worker, or elite competitor, one thing remains constant—the need for proper hoof care. Without it, a horse’s soundness, performance, and well-being are at risk.