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.

Recently, I officially retired my mare Diva from riding at age 25. She had started showing signs that riding was no longer a comfortable or enjoyable experience. I noticed her topline dropping and her hind end becoming stiffer (which was confirmed as the early stages of hock arthritis in her left hind). In general, Diva’s body was no longer receiving a benefit from being ridden. I decided I am not comfortable medicating my horse so that I can ride her.

Have you ever noticed how your horse’s behaviour can change unexpectedly — becoming tense, spooky, or disengaged? What if these signs were a deeper message? Instead of seeing them as setbacks, these behaviours could be an opportunity to strengthen the trust and connection between you and your horse.

Each year, I host a unique and transformative event with one simple idea: variety creates purpose. Purpose camp at James Creek Ranch introduces diverse experiences into our horses’ training keeps them engaged, confident, and willing to learn. Repetitive drills can lead to sour attitudes, but when exercises have meaning, both horse and rider benefit.