So, you’ve got yourself a horse. You’re about to enter a world filled with majestic creatures, endless barn chores, and a financial commitment that rivals putting a kid through college. But hey, it’s worth it. Horses are incredible, and if you treat them right, they’ll carry you into the sunset like you’re in a Hollywood blockbuster. (Results may vary.)

Taking care of a horse isn’t just about throwing them a few apples and calling it a day. These big, beautiful beasts require proper care, attention, and an almost masochistic love for cleaning up poop.

1: Feeding Your Horse Like a Five-Star Chef

Horses don’t just eat hay and dreams. Well, mostly hay, but they also need other nutrients. The key to a happy, healthy horse is a balanced diet, and no, that doesn’t mean feeding them whatever’s leftover from your plate.

How to take care of horses – what you’ll need:

• Hay and pasture: The backbone of any horse’s diet. Make sure it’s good quality—moldy hay is a no-go unless you want a very expensive vet bill.
• Grain (but not too much!): Some horses need grain, some don’t. Talk to your vet before you turn your horse into a grain-guzzling maniac.
• Fresh water: Your horse drinks about 5-10 gallons a day. That’s a lot of water. Make sure they have access to clean, fresh water at all times.
• Salt and minerals: Horses need salt, which is why you’ll often see a salt block hanging around. No, it’s not a weird horse snack; it’s essential.

Basically, think of your horse’s diet like your own: fresh, balanced, and not just Cheetos and sadness.

2: Cleaning Up (aka The Never-Ending Poop Saga)

Owning a horse is a lot like having a giant, judgmental dog that poops more than you ever thought possible. Cleaning up after them is a non-stop job, but someone’s gotta do it (spoiler alert: it’s you).

• Stall Cleaning: If your horse is in a stall, you’ll need to clean it daily. This involves removing poop, replacing dirty bedding, and questioning your life choices.
• Pasture Maintenance: If they’re outside, congratulations! The poop is still there, but at least it’s more “spread out.” You’ll still need to pick it up regularly.
• Grooming: Not exactly cleaning up poop, but still part of the whole “keeping things clean” vibe. Horses love a good brushing, and it helps keep their coats healthy.

The good news? Cleaning up after your horse is a great workout. The bad news? It never, ever ends.

3: Exercise – Because Lazy Horses Are Grumpy Horses

A bored horse is a bad idea. When they’re not getting enough exercise, they’ll entertain themselves in ways that range from adorable to straight-up destructive.

• Riding: This is the fun part! Take them out for a ride, whether it’s in an arena or on a scenic trail where you can pretend you’re in a Western.
• Lunging: Basically, making your horse run in circles on a long lead rope. It’s great for exercise, training, and making them slightly dizzy (but in a productive way).
• Turnout: Let your horse be a horse. Give them time outside to roam, roll in the dirt, and judge you from a distance.

Horses need movement to stay healthy and sane. Think of it like mandatory gym time—except they actually like it.

4: How to take care of horses: Vet and Hoof Care… Because You Like Having a Functional Horse

If you’re thinking, “Eh, my horse seems fine, I’ll skip the vet,” congratulations! You’ve just made a terrible decision. Horses require regular health checkups, and their hooves? Oh, buddy. You better get used to hoof maintenance.

• Regular Vet Visits: Horses need vaccinations, dental checkups, and routine exams. Yes, horses need dentists. And yes, that’s weird.
• Hoof Care: A farrier (aka horse foot specialist) should trim or shoe your horse’s hooves every 6-8 weeks. Otherwise, their feet turn into nightmare fuel.
• Deworming: Horses get worms. It’s gross, but it happens. Your vet will help you set up a deworming schedule to keep things under control.

Taking care of a horse’s health is like maintaining a very expensive, very loveable car that occasionally bites.

Step 5: Love, Attention, and Bribery (Mostly Bribery)

At the end of the day, your horse isn’t just a pet—it’s a partner. The best way to build trust is through time, patience, and, let’s be honest, a whole lot of treats.

• Spending Time Together: Horses recognize and bond with people who spend time with them. Hang out, groom them, talk to them (yes, really).
• Training: Even if you’re not riding every day, work on groundwork and basic manners. A horse that respects you is less likely to drag you through the mud.
• Treats: Carrots, apples, and horse-friendly snacks go a long way in building a relationship. But don’t overdo it unless you want a 1,200-pound beggar following you around.

How to take care of horses – final thoughts: is it worth it?

Taking care of a horse is a commitment. It’s time-consuming, expensive, and sometimes frustrating. But it’s also rewarding, magical, and, if we’re being honest, one of the coolest things you can do.

You’ll have days where you wonder why you ever thought this was a good idea, but then your horse will nuzzle you, and suddenly, you’ll forget every bad moment. Kind of like a toxic relationship, but with way more manure.

So, saddle up, grab a muck rake, and get ready for the ride of a lifetime. Just, you know, watch out for the kicks.

And as always, here are some of your pearls of wisdom when it comes to looking after your horse:

Your horse care tips

Best

Al

PS Please do leave a comment below if you’d like to add anything. I’d love to hear your thoughts.

The post How to take care of horses appeared first on Natural horse care and training tips.

Ah, horses. Majestic, powerful, they are basically the sports cars of the animal kingdom—except their fuel is hay, they occasionally try to knock your head off for no reason, and you can’t just park them in a garage when you’re done. But for all their might and muscle, horses are also delicate little things who can fall victim to something called “foundering,” which sounds like an old-timey ship sinking but is actually way worse if you’re a horse.

So, What Is Foundering?

Foundering, more formally known as laminitis, is what happens when a horse’s hooves decide to stage a violent coup against the rest of the body. And trust me, when a horse founders, it’s not some cute, quirky little quirk. This is an all-out hoof catastrophe.

Here’s the science-y version in case you want to impress your equestrian friends or sound smart at parties: The laminae, which are the tiny, interwoven tissues that anchor the horse’s coffin bone (yes, that’s its real name—ominous, right?) to the hoof wall, become inflamed. When this happens, blood flow goes haywire, tissue gets damaged, and in severe cases, the coffin bone may rotate or sink within the hoof. You do not need a veterinary degree to know that things inside a body should never sink where they shouldn’t be sinking.

Why Does This Happen?

Because life isn’t fair and horses are basically the overdramatic actors of the animal world. But if we’re getting technical, foundering can happen due to a bunch of different reasons. Here are some of the biggest culprits:

1. Too Much Rich Food (AKA, Equine Thanksgiving Overindulgence)
   • Horses love a good all-you-can-eat buffet, and if they gorge on too much grain or lush pasture, it can throw their metabolism into chaos, leading to laminitis. Basically, it’s like when you eat an entire pizza, feel great for five minutes, then descend into gastrointestinal despair.
2. Obesity and Metabolic Issues
   • Just like humans, some horses struggle with weight gain and conditions like equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) or Cushing’s disease, which can mess with their insulin regulation and set the stage for foundering.
3. Excessive Concussion on Hard Surfaces
   • If a horse gallops too much on a hard surface (like your uncle’s knees after a long weekend at the theme park), they can develop something called “road founder,” where all that pounding leads to inflammation and damage inside the hoof.
4. Infections or Systemic Illness
   • Any condition that sparks major inflammation throughout the horse’s body (such as a serious infection) can also contribute to laminitis. Think of it like the horse’s immune system getting mad at everything, including its own feet.
5. Supporting Limb Laminitis
   • This happens when a horse is injured on one leg and has to bear all its weight on the opposite limb. Over time, the extra stress and blood flow imbalance can cause the overworked hoof to break down. It’s like if you did a week of one-legged squats, except instead of just being sore, your foot decides to betray you.

What does it mean when a horse founders – how can you know?

A foundering horse will not be subtle about it. If your noble steed suddenly starts walking like a hungover college student looking for their lost phone, you might have a problem.

Here are some telltale signs:

• Shifting weight back and forth like they can’t decide which hoof is the least painful
• Standing in the classic “rocked-back” position, trying to take weight off the front feet
• Heat in the hooves (hot feet = bad news)
• A strong digital pulse (think of it as an angry hoof heartbeat)
• Reluctance to move, because moving hurts like stepping on a LEGO but way worse
• Lameness that ranges from “Ouch, that’s annoying” to “Oh no, this is catastrophic”

What does it mean when a horse founders – What Can You Do About It?

First, don’t panic. Just kidding, panic a little, but in a productive way. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Call your vet. Immediately.
   • Foundering isn’t a “let’s see how this goes” situation. The sooner you get professional help, the better the horse’s chances.
2. Get those hooves on ice.
   • Ice therapy can slow down inflammation if done early. Just think of it as the horse equivalent of slapping an ice pack on a sprained ankle.
3. Adjust their diet ASAP.
   • If overeating was the trigger, your horse needs a new meal plan faster than someone who just got a bad cholesterol report.
4. Work with a farrier.
   • A skilled farrier can trim and shoe the horse in a way that reduces pressure on the damaged laminae and supports the hoof as it heals.
5. Give them rest. Lots of rest.
   • This is not the time for heroic cowboy antics. Keep them in a soft, comfortable place and let them recover.

Can a Horse Recover from Foundering?

Yes! But also, sometimes no. It depends on how bad the damage is, how quickly it’s treated, and whether the horse is, you know, being a cooperative patient. Some horses bounce back like an action movie hero, while others might struggle with chronic pain or long-term hoof issues. The key is catching it early and managing it well.

The Takeaway

If you own a horse, you need to know about foundering. It’s painful, serious, and can be life-threatening. But with good management, smart feeding habits, and a keen eye for early symptoms, you can minimize the risk.

So, next time your horse gives you that “I want to eat an entire field of lush green grass” look, just remember: restraint is love. And also, maybe invest in a really good farrier. Because hooves? Hooves are everything.

Hope this helps. Here’s some more on it.

Best

Al

PS Please do leave a comment below – I’d love to know your thoughts

PPS Comments below please!

The post What does it mean when a horse founders appeared first on Natural horse care and training tips.

“Hi and happy Friday from Charlotte, NC! Your story touched me deeply. I wanted to share a little something…hope you don’t think it’s odd of me.

I have never had the privilege of owning a horse of my own. When I was a child, I volunteered my time at the horse stable down the street from my house every day! It was a home for about 30 horses. The hard but most rewarding work was thoroughly enjoyed! I had the chance to get to know the owners of several horses and eventually they asked me if wanted to take care of them! If i did well, I could tend to them when they were not able to come into town. Well, I could not have smiled any wider!!! I learned everything I could, my brain was a sponge! They taught me how to ride as time went on too. To me this was the best! I’ve always had a great respect for horses, honestly for all animals. And I do believe that they can sense things in people. They know who to trust! As Julie said, by showing them patience and giving them love….well in doing that you get it back in abundance! And at that young age I learned that each horse is different!! Just like people! I am overjoyed even to this day at 46 years old when I get the chance to be around, ride or even see horses. I always get out if my car to look and call then over.. Sometimes they come! I wish that I could work with horses again….it’s we’re my heart is. It is my dream to learn and do what you and Julie does with horses. It’s hard work but well worth every minute. Who knows? Maybe one day I will get the chance to work and be with horses on a regular basis! Sincerely, I love and enjoy to Pay it forward….it feels wonderful… working with horses would be doing just that each day!! it’s not a give and take…..it’s a give and give for both horse and person.

Sincerely,

Jenn”

“For years my first horse, a cuttin’ quarter kinda gal, terrorized the neighbourhood. We frequently rode sans bridle, halter and saddle. It seemed like I would just about get everyone trained, then someone new would move in the area. Mom, or some other neighbour would get a call about a child being run away with on a horse who’d lost its bridle.

I took the horse to the Chicago area barn I was working in. The owner’s son/”trainer” lost $50 bucks in a bet about honest jumpers: I bet him the horse could jump a 5′ fence wearing only her halter. He set up two standards and a single rail at 5″. The mare was only 14.1 hands tall and could run right under the bar, so it was kind of a dirty trick. But it also showed his ignorance of a horse he’d supposedly “known” for 6 months. I told him we would to a figure 8 course of fences – with change of lead, then come down over the 5′ rail.

And then I dropped the halter off her head. Because the bet was all about honesty in the horse, after all.

Well, the horse did the smaller fences, in a figure 8, with flying lead changes, then came around to address the single rail. For a pony to jump over her own height is a pretty good deal. But to jump a rail she could run right under, or run around or completely avoid because she is wearing nothing was quite spectacular. It really infuriated the bettor – who actually refused to pay up!

His mother would sustain much the same fury when we decided to leave the barn. She turned out some 30 school horses with my horse, in an indoor arena. Every horse turned out had a halter on, except 1 single horse. Guess which one. Now I have learned where her son gets the “dirty trick” gene. She had tried to purchase my horse, and I wouldn’t sell; this was her way of encouraging me to change my mind!

I went outside, hitched up my trailer and opened its back door. Then I went back into the indoor arena, wherein were milling 30-odd horses. The owner was smirking as it was hard enough to catch up a school horse turned out in the arena on a day off. That was why they all had halters on – and mine did not! And she had no problem standing at the gate to the outside tossing dirt clumps to get them going.

As horses began to pick up swirling speed, I just stood there. As my horse cruised by, I called her name. She stopped and stood while I jumped up on her. Then she picked up a nice little canter down the arena, jumped over the gate to the outside – causing the owner to jump out of the way – and walked into the trailer, where I hopped off, closed the back door, and off we drove!

Thank you for this happy memory!

Cheryl”

Hope enjoyed those. I did. Please keep ’em coming.

Best

Al

Horse whisperer link here

And now onto the buck who sent this in.

“While horses may not their love back in the same way humans do, they form strong emotional bonds with people, often exhibiting behaviors resembling affection and loyalty. Horses are naturally social animals with complex emotional and social structures, typically forming strong bonds with other horses in their herd. When they develop a connection with a human, they often display similar attachment behaviors.”

“One sign of affection in horses is their body language. For instance, a horse that trusts and feels comfortable with someone may nuzzle them gently, follow them around, or rest its head on their shoulder. Horses also show signs of relaxation around those they trust, such as lowering their heads, blinking slowly, and even sighing. These are subtle but meaningful ways in which horses express that they feel safe and content with a person.”

“Scientific studies also support the idea that horses can form bonds similar to attachment and in a way love you back. Research has shown that horses are able to recognize their humans and even appear to show signs of stress when separated from those they trust. Additionally, horses have been observed to synchronize their heart rates with those of their favorite humans, suggesting a deep, calming bond.”

“Horses also learn to understand the emotional cues of humans, responding to voice tones, body language, and mood. This sensitivity often leads people to feel a mutual connection with their horses, which can be deeply rewarding and comforting thinking there horse really do love them back.”

“So, while a horse may not “love” in the same way humans do, they can definitely show signs of affection, trust, and attachment. These behaviors are clear indications of a bond that feels close to love, as far as we can understand it in animals. With proper care, kindness, and consistency, a horse can form a loyal, affectionate relationship that resembles a form of love, deeply valued by those who experience it. Horses show love differently than us, but they show that they love us back in a different way.”

Next up

Horse confidence.

The post Horses really do love you back… appeared first on Natural horse care and training tips.

You may not realize it, but when you groom your horse you’re bonding with him. Not only will your horse accept you. He’ll find comfort and safety around you. He’ll look to you as his leader.

What we do out of the saddle will always affect our performance in the saddle. Grooming shows there’s more to our horses’ care than simply keeping him healthy and clean.

Jim”

And now hear what Dan says on grooming.

“Horse grooming is an essential part of equine care, both for the health of the horse and to strengthen the bond between horse and rider. Regular grooming helps maintain the horse’s coat, skin, and hooves in good condition, while also providing an opportunity to check for injuries, irritations, or signs of illness. Beyond the physical benefits, grooming is a calming and bonding experience, allowing the horse to feel relaxed and connected with its handler. Dan”

“Special attention is given to the horse’s mane and tail, which should be brushed carefully to prevent pulling or breaking hairs. A detangler or conditioner can be applied to keep the hair manageable. The hooves are cleaned using a hoof pick, removing dirt, stones, or debris that could cause discomfort or injury. Dan”

“Grooming also provides a chance to check the horse’s overall health, including looking for signs of irritation, sores, or swelling. This routine also helps prevent skin conditions such as rain rot or fungus by keeping the coat clean and dry. For the horse, grooming often feels good and can be a relaxing, almost meditative experience, especially when done with calm, gentle motions. It is a vital aspect of responsible horse care that enhances both health and well-being. Dan”

So now you know why grooming is so important but does your horse trust you…

The post Why grooming is so important appeared first on Natural horse care and training tips.

It was a harder time for the working horse, and Old Billy undoubtedly lived a hard life. He was a barge horse, pulling cargo along the sides of canals. A horse pulling a barge can pull 50 times as much cargo as a horse pulling a cart. It was barge horses that pulled society through the Industrial Revolution. They were used right up to the mid-20th Century.

I sometimes wonder if easy living is partly to blame for our horses’ comparatively short lives. At Peak Forest in northern England, barge horses still pull tourists on riverboat trips. Maybe they hold some of Billy’s secrets?

Here’s what Jack has to say.

“The average lifespan of a horse varies significantly based on breed, care, and environment, but generally, horses live between 25 to 30 years. Some may live beyond this, reaching up to 40 years or more with exceptional care. However, just as with other animals, genetics, diet, physical activity, and veterinary care heavily influence a horse’s life. Jack”

“Breeds play a significant role in lifespan expectations. For instance, smaller breeds such as ponies often have longer lifespans than larger breeds. Ponies frequently live well into their 30s or 40s, while draft horses, which are larger and more physically demanding to maintain, tend to have shorter lives, often 15 to 20 years. Common horse breeds like the Arabian, known for their endurance and strong genetics, frequently reach 30 years or more under proper care. Jack”

“Daily lifestyle and level of care also impact a horse’s lifespan. Horses that are regularly exercised, kept at a healthy weight, and receive balanced nutrition tend to live longer. Proper dental care, regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite management are essential aspects of horse health that contribute to longer lifespans. Environmental factors like climate, stable conditions, and even social interaction can also affect their health and longevity. Jack”

“Horses that experience less physical stress, particularly as they age, typically have fewer health issues. For example, working horses, which might experience joint strain or other physical injuries due to hard labor, often have shorter lives if they don’t receive adequate rest or recovery periods. Jack”

“Overall, advancements in equine veterinary medicine have improved the lifespan of domestic horses. Owners who provide quality nutrition, monitor their horse’s health closely, and offer safe, comfortable living conditions can maximize their horse’s potential to enjoy a long and healthy life well into their 30s or beyond. Jack”

Next up

Tips and horse care to keep your horse going.

The post Average horse lifespan? appeared first on Natural horse care and training tips.

The post Save with the horse ebay cheat sheet appeared first on Natural horse care and training tips.

Some say the finest horsemen in history were also the most natural…

The Cherokee Native Americans set what seems an unreachable bar in horsemanship.

But for the beginner? Are we ready for treeless saddles?

Riding with a treeless saddle is not the same as riding bareback  – that would be completely ludicrous. But is a similar level of horsemanship needed?

The tree is built to provide support, even pressure and comfort – for the horse and the rider.

A treeless saddle cannot offer these same benefits. Instead, it leaves the horse vulnerable to abnormal pressure points. The rider’s seat bone can dig into the horse, causing its back muscles to tighten.

Isn’t the tree there to help, where we lack the supreme ability the Native Americans had?

Perhaps not? Perhaps you ride your horse treeless? Even bareback? Does it work for you? Somebody please help me!

Karen”

And now hear what Lily has to say.

“Treeless saddles are an alternative to traditional saddles that lack a rigid tree, the structured frame typically made from wood or synthetic material. Without a tree, these saddles conform more closely to the horse’s back, potentially allowing for a more even distribution of the rider’s weight. This flexibility can offer a more comfortable fit for both horse and rider, especially for horses with unique back shapes or those difficult to fit with traditional saddles. Lily”

“One of the main benefits of treeless saddles is that they allow greater freedom of movement for the horse. Since there is no rigid frame, horses often experience less restriction around their shoulders and spine, which can enhance their performance and reduce discomfort. Riders also tend to feel closer to the horse’s movements, creating a stronger sense of connection and communication. Lily”

Treeless saddles are especially popular among riders who practice disciplines like trail riding or endurance, where comfort over long distances is key. They are also favored for horses recovering from back injuries or those with high withers, as the saddle can mold to their shape rather than pressing down unevenly. Lily”

“However, treeless saddles are not without challenges. The lack of a rigid structure can make them less stable, particularly for high-intensity sports like jumping or activities that require quick, precise movements. Proper padding is essential to prevent pressure points, and some horses may still require a custom-fit treeless saddle for optimal comfort. Additionally, they may not provide as much support for the rider, which could lead to less security in the seat for those used to traditional saddles. Lily”

“In summary, treeless saddles offer a flexible, close-contact alternative ideal for certain types of riding and specific horses. With careful selection and padding, they can be a great choice, though they may not replace traditional saddles in all riding disciplines. Lily”

Next up

Saddling a horse.

The post Do you ride ‘treeless’? appeared first on Natural horse care and training tips.

Many don’t think their horse can get trapped in a 90-degree corner. Even though this is where 90% of horse injuries at pasture occur. It’s easy to miss paddock shapes, while obsessing over nutrition, or the early stages of hoof damage.

So I’m beginning a series of free simple tips. They’re all mercifully short. Just one of these might change your horseback life immeasurably.

If you have any simple tips to add along the way, I want to hear them. Please, please comment below!

And here’s what Karen has to say.

So why are the simplest tips often the most useful? Horseback riding tips are often the most valuable because they address foundational aspects of balance, communication, and safety—qualities that enhance every rider’s experience. Tips like “heels down,” “eyes up,” and “breathe” may seem basic, but they are essential for building solid riding habits that help both novice and experienced riders stay balanced and connected with their horses.

For example, “heels down” isn’t just about looking polished; it’s about anchoring your weight properly. When you drop your heels, you stabilize yourself in the saddle and lower your center of gravity, which provides a stronger and more secure seat. This simple adjustment not only improves control but also offers better shock absorption, making it easier to stay balanced through sudden movements.

Similarly, “eyes up” is about more than just awareness—it directs your body and, in turn, signals your horse. Where you look influences your posture, helping you naturally position yourself forward or sideways as needed. This allows for smooth transitions and helps keep your horse moving in the intended direction.

The reminder to “breathe” is another deceptively simple yet powerful tip. Horses are highly sensitive to their rider’s tension and emotions; when you breathe deeply and stay calm, your horse will pick up on it and likely mirror that calmness. This small action can help prevent nerves from escalating and make your horse feel more secure.

In essence, these simple tips work because they establish consistency in riding habits that allow the rider to focus more on connecting with the horse than on constantly correcting position or balance. By building on these foundational skills, riders can handle more complex maneuvers and situations with confidence. Simple as they may seem, these tips form the basis of successful and enjoyable horseback riding.

Next up

Is a nervous horse your fault?

The post Why the simplest tips are often the most useful appeared first on Natural horse care and training tips.

Jaime Jackson observed wild horses. The way many of us look at our horses’ hooves was transformed.

Pat Parelli and Monty Roberts observed wild horses. So many dropped the whip, and saw better results for it.

And Pete Raimey, who specialises in founder rehabilitation, said this. “I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the finest horses, for the finest horse owners in the world. Understand that after two minutes with the wild ones, I knew that I had never seen a true horse.”

Why in 1919, did the American Government issue a bulletin dealing with ‘wild or worthless’ horses? And why today, are there still those who call wild horses “garbage”?

200 years ago, there were 2-5 million horses on the American Plains. Today there are fewer than 50,000. It’s a steep drop. And as wild horse numbers fall, our ignorance can only rise.

And now onto Gordon.

“Learning to ride horses without the guidance of an experienced teacher can be challenging and even risky. Although there are countless online resources, books, and tutorials available, horseback riding is a highly nuanced skill that involves both physical coordination and understanding horse behavior. Self-teaching can lead to gaps in knowledge or bad habits, which can be difficult to unlearn later and may even be unsafe.”

“One of the most important aspects of horse riding is developing “feel,” or the ability to read a horse’s body language, mood, and reactions. This skill typically takes time to cultivate and is greatly facilitated by an instructor who can interpret these signs and teach riders to respond appropriately. Without a teacher, riders may miss these cues, which can result in miscommunication or unsafe situations with the horse. Additionally, teachers can provide guidance on posture, balance, and handling techniques that are essential for effective riding but are often subtle and hard to self-correct but I see why people learn without teachers. The price can be expensive but sometimes it’s worth spending a little to learn and master horseriding.”

“Are we still intent on learning without teachers? Safety is another critical concern. Horses are large, powerful animals, and even small errors in technique or handling can lead to accidents. Experienced instructors teach not only riding but also safe handling practices, which are just as important as riding skills in preventing injury to both the rider and the horse. A good teacher can identify areas of improvement and correct mistakes immediately, which is often far more effective than trying to learn from a video or written instructions alone.”

“Ultimately, while it’s possible to make some progress alone, learning with a qualified teacher offers the benefit of guided, safe, and efficient skill development. For those serious about learning to ride well and caring for horses responsibly, the expertise of an experienced instructor remains invaluable. Hope this helps but Are we still intent on learning without teachers? Gordon”

Next up

Horse health questions.

The post Are we still intent on learning without teachers? appeared first on Natural horse care and training tips.

I have to say, when I see Pat Parelli, I see a master horseman. Every time I watch a new Parelli video, my jaw drops at the sheer control and understanding he has. But I was shocked to read this…

http://www.chronofhorse.com/forum/showthread.php?t=224279

Apparently the Parellis claim they don’t need to wear helmets. Instead they deal with behavioural problems at the source. Well, my jaw dropped at this too.

Kids. If you’re reading this, always wear a helmet. Even if you’re lucky enough to ride a Parelli trained horse.

And now onto what Jack has to say.

“Wearing a helmet while horseback riding is crucial for ensuring the safety of both novice and experienced riders. Horses are large, powerful animals, and even the most well-trained horse can react unpredictably to various stimuli, such as loud noises, sudden movements, or unfamiliar surroundings. A fall from a horse can lead to severe injuries, particularly head injuries, which are among the most common and serious types of trauma sustained in equestrian sports. Jack”

“Love or hate the Parellis – but do wear a helmet. There designed to provide protection and comfort. They are made from lightweight materials and often incorporate advanced technology, such as impact-absorbing foam and ventilation systems. This combination not only protects the rider’s head but also helps maintain comfort during extended rides. Choosing a properly fitted helmet is essential; it should sit snugly on the head without being too tight and should not shift during movement. Jack”

“Many equestrian organizations and competitions require riders to wear helmets, emphasizing their importance in promoting safe riding practices. Wearing a helmet not only protects the rider but also sets a positive example for younger or less experienced riders. It instills the habit of prioritizing safety, fostering a culture where protective gear is a standard part of riding. Jack”

“While some riders may feel that wearing a helmet diminishes their experience or style, the risk of head injury far outweighs these concerns. Accidents can happen in an instant, and wearing a helmet can be the difference between a minor bump and a life-threatening injury. Jack”

“Love or hate the Parellis wear a helmet. In conclusion, wearing a helmet while horseback riding is essential for safety. It protects riders from serious head injuries and promotes a culture of safety within the equestrian community. Prioritizing helmet use ensures that horseback riding remains an enjoyable and safe activity for all. Jack”

Next up

What footwear should you wear?

The post Love or hate the Parellis – but do wear a helmet appeared first on Natural horse care and training tips.