How-To

Navigating Stress and Emotions for Success at a Horse Show

Updated:

July 22, 2026

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Last summer, I observed a rider in the warm-up ring at Thunderbird Show Park in Vancouver, BC, who seemed to be struggling. Her horse was tense and unfocused, despite her best attempts to establish a connection. The horse appeared distracted, and when they approached a practice jump, it refused. The rider fought to maintain her composure, but her frustration and tension were clearly visible. Although she cleared a few jumps at the trot, once they began cantering, the horse rushed the jumps and nearly bolted after landing. After a few attempts, she pulled up to the corner of the arena, her face showing the emotional toll of the situation.

Horse Owners' Guide to Natural Disaster Preparedness

Updated:

July 20, 2026

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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.

How to Build a Successful Rehab Program for Horses with Undiagnosed Pain

Updated:

July 9, 2026

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When a horse shows subtle signs of lameness or discomfort but no clear veterinary diagnosis, it can be discouraging and costly for owners. These vague issues are unfortunately common and often leave owners uncertain about the next step. This article outlines key principles to guide you through such cases, using the example of Remy — a mare who arrived with back pain and bucking behaviour but no definitive medical findings.

Step by Step Guide to Braiding Your Horse's Mane and Tail

Updated:

July 1, 2026

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Braiding a horse’s mane and tail is a tradition with deep historical roots. Originally, it served a very practical purpose—keeping the mane from getting caught in tack, tools, or the weapons used by mounted hunters and soldiers. According to old legends, fairies were believed to sneak into barns at night and weave “elf knots” into horse manes to ride them. A more sinister version of the tale suggests that thieves would tie knots in a mane to mark horses they planned to steal. Over time, braiding also came to symbolize class, with neatly plaited manes and tails identifying horses of high breeding or importance.

Better Barn Management: 7 Leadership Tips for Horse Professionals

Updated:

July 1, 2026

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Running a successful horse farm or boarding stable takes more than excellent horsemanship—it also requires strong leadership. Whether you manage a large equine operation or a small private barn, finding dependable employees to handle horse care, lessons, training, and daily barn chores can be one of the biggest challenges. Many horse professionals admit they are more comfortable managing horses than managing people, but the skills needed to lead a team are easier to develop than you might expect. These practical strategies can help you build a stronger, more effective workplace.

Navigating the Gate with Your Horse

Updated:

June 25, 2026

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Essentially, a gate is a transition from here to there. It’s a transition from one pasture to another, replicated in competition. Learning to work a gate can be part of your horse’s training transition into a more attentive, patient, and handy partner.

Choosing the Best Horse Fence: Safety, Management, and Property Value

Updated:

June 24, 2026

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Choosing the right horse fencing is one of the most important decisions when planning or upgrading an equine property. Beyond defining boundaries, fencing represents a significant long-term investment that influences horse safety, property security, day-to-day management, and the overall appearance of a farm or stable. A well-designed fence should safely contain horses while discouraging unwanted visitors, including loose dogs and trespassers. It also makes it easier to manage grazing and separate horses according to age, sex, value, or intended use. However, not every type of fencing is appropriate for horses.

Essential Horse Clipping Tips for a Flawless Finish

Updated:

June 17, 2026

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Before you even start clipping, good tool care should be your top priority. Whether you’re giving your horse a full body clip or simply neatening up, sharp, clean, and well-lubricated blades will produce smoother results and help your equipment last longer. Take a moment to inspect the clippers and cords for any wear or damage before switching them on.

Equitation Essentials - The Hows and Whys of a Winning Riding Position

Updated:

June 12, 2026

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I learned the fundamentals of equitation to the repetitive tune of Heads up! Heels down! while trotting around and around the riding school arena. I acquired the hows of riding in those early years, but my whys were typically answered with tradition: That’s just the way it’s done. Thinking back, if I’d grasped the reasoning behind the technical skills of riding, I’d have been more motivated to persevere in those drills without stirrups!

How to Safely Remove Burrs From Your Horse’s Mane, Tail, and Body

Updated:

June 10, 2026

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Win the Battle of the Burrs - Discovering your horse with a mane and tail full of burrs can be frustrating — but it’s more than a cosmetic concern. Burrs can cause real discomfort, inflame the skin, and even damage the hair roots. If your horse resists grooming, chances are those pesky burrs clusters are already causing pain by tightening up and pulling the hair every which way. Here’s how to handle the problem with care — and how to stop it from happening in the future.