The Lac La Croix Indigenous pony, named after the Lac La Croix First Nation, now the Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation, primarily existed in northwestern Ontario and across the United States border into Minnesota. This unique pony breed, considered to be developed by the Indigenous Peoples, was used for winter transportation, running trap lines, hauling logs and ice, and pulling sleighs. As forest dwellers, the breed boasts strong hooves to endure the rocky terrain of the Canadian Shield; fuzzy ears to protect them from insects; and often a dorsal stripe down its back and zebra stripes on its legs.

Those who primarily work in riding arenas or round pens with sand footing, such as equestrian riding coaches, riding instructors, and horse trainers, are at an higher risk of respiratory issues.

A closer look at the troubling physiology behind this common practice and how to support curiosity and courage in our horses instead.

At CF Fence in southern Okanagan, BC, owner Alan Cossentine recognizes the value and importance of safe, reliable fencing for livestock on farms and ranches.

Did you know that a stunning working horse ranch, backed by the Canadian government and open to trail riders, sits on the doorstep of the Rocky Mountains? Yes, it’s true. Ya Ha Tinda Ranch — owned and operated by Parks Canada — is the only federally run horse ranch in the country and marked its 100th anniversary in 2017.

Compliance or Confusion? If you are a Black Beauty fan, you will recall the scene where Beauty is being led from a burning barn and he’s scared. James puts the blindfold on to instantly calm him down, and then he’s able to be rescued. Written in 1877 by Anna Sewell, the novel was based on how horse handling looked back then. Thanks to scientific research, we now know a lot more about horse behaviour and equine welfare.

While horses are the heart of any stable, there’s a hidden menace that can undermine their health, safety, and even the structural integrity of the facilities: rats. These unwelcome intruders pose serious risks to equine operations by spreading disease, destroying property, and contaminating food and bedding. Understanding the threat and implementing robust prevention and control strategies is essential for protecting both animals and infrastructure.

"My horse is smart enough not to eat toxic plants" - This is a comment I often hear during property visits focused on responsible manure and pasture practices. While it’s true that horses generally avoid undesirable or toxic plants when there’s ample healthy forage available, issues tend to surface when pastures are overgrazed and food choices become limited. That’s when horses may resort to eating weeds or harmful plants. It’s essential for horse owners to recognize which plants pose a threat and to understand how to control their presence in grazing areas.

Roxanne Salinas of Bear Hollow Farm in Lone Butte, BC, has been a tireless advocate and historian of Canada’s National Horse for a quarter century. As we celebrate Canada Day 2025 and all things Canadian, Ms. Salinas gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming book, Canada’s National Horse: A History.