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.

Of late, various regions of Canada have faced significant devastation due to natural disasters such as wildfires, ice storms, and floods. These catastrophic events have had a profound impact on the equine community, resulting in the destruction of stables, fences, feed resources, land, and even animals. In addition to the direct damage to property, many horse owners also face secondary losses, for instance income from their business due to property damage.

Horse business owners everywhere know how difficult it is to make money in the horse world. Every equine industry entrepreneur strives to figure out how to build a better and more resilient enterprise that will generate a reliable revenue stream and provide an enjoyable equestrian lifestyle.

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.