Crisis-Ready Horsekeeping: Safety Plans for the Unexpected - Across Canada there is one thing horse owners have in common: We all want what is best for our horses. No matter what discipline we favour, whether we compete or ride just for fun, we all take steps to ensure that our horses are well looked after, happy and healthy. But what about when it comes to preparing for our worst nightmare? At the very least, most barns will have a first aid kit or two and maybe some fire extinguishers. But in the event of a natural disaster like an earthquake, fire, flood or tornado, do any of us have what it takes to make the best of the worst situation? While it’s uncomfortable to think about what would happen if we suffered at the wrath of Mother Nature, we aren’t doing ourselves or our horses any favours by ignoring the possibility of a natural or man-made disaster.

For many, the idea of buying real estate is an enticing one, often conjuring images of a quaint home with a welcoming front patio and a classic white picket fence. For equestrians, however, the dream expands significantly. It's about vast green pastures, a barn that exudes luxury, secure fencing, and a space perfectly suited for horses.

The colder months require careful consideration of seemingly simple tasks, such as providing your horse with fresh, clean water. Fortunately, horses, humans, and livestock have shared many Canadian winters together, and there are several options for winter watering.

When imagining the perfect horse property, many horse owners envision sprawling green pastures, clean and organized stables, dry turnout areas, a well-managed manure composting system, and easy access to trails and other equestrian amenities—all set in a beautiful landscape with streams and forested views. This idyllic image paints a picture of horses living in harmony with nature.