“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.

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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.

A horse is an intelligent animal. Head rocking is common equine behaviour in a stall. It’s to alleviate the boredom.

And whether a horse is barefoot or shod, zero movement can only result in a starved white line.

What I dislike most about stalls is that it’s real human intervention in the horse’s natural life.

The owner using horse shoes might say it’s because they ride on roads 90% of the time.

The owner using a bit might say it’s the only way to control their horse.

But the owner locking their horse in a stall 12+ hours a day can only say it’s for their own convenience.

Of course, the stall is sometimes our only option. But let’s always live and work around giving our horses as much time at pasture as possible.

Horse gentler, Ray Hunt, had a blissfully simple mantra for keeping horses. “Make the wrong things difficult and the right things easy”.

Why make the wrong things unavoidable?

And now onto Jeff

“In horse training, the principle of “make the wrong things difficult and the right things easy” is a highly effective approach for encouraging desired behaviors in horses. This technique helps horses understand what’s expected of them without the need for force, promoting a more cooperative and respectful partnership.”

“For instance, if a horse is crowding a handler’s space, a trainer might gently move the horse back, making it harder for the horse to stay in the unwanted position. Once the horse steps back, the handler can release pressure and reward the correct response, reinforcing the idea that standing at a respectful distance is the easier, more comfortable option. This creates a learning experience where the horse starts to associate good behavior with comfort and unwanted behavior with mild inconvenience or discomfort.”

“Similarly, when teaching a horse to load into a trailer, trainers often make standing outside of the trailer less comfortable—perhaps by adding gentle pressure—while rewarding every forward step toward the trailer. As the horse moves closer to the trailer, the trainer reduces the pressure and offers praise or a treat, making the correct behavior easy and the wrong one less pleasant. Over time, the horse learns that entering the trailer is the preferred choice.”

“This approach encourages horses to actively participate in learning rather than simply reacting out of fear or submission. By shaping behavior in a way that makes the “right” choices easy and the “wrong” choices less appealing, horses are more willing to follow guidance without feeling forced or stressed. This technique strengthens the bond between horse and rider or trainer, as it builds mutual trust and reinforces positive behaviors in a natural, low-stress way. Ultimately, it leads to a more willing and attentive partner in the horse. Jeff”

Next up

How to regain confidence after a fall.

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As a teenager, Roberts observed wild horses through binoculars. He noticed they spoke to each other using body language – a language he called ‘Equus’. When a horse lowered his head and made chewing motions, he was asking to be accepted into the herd. “Can we talk?” he seemed to say.

How lucky we are, this knowledge survived. Monty’s father, who told him “hurt the horse before the horse hurts you,” certainly hadn’t inspired this thinking. And when Monty first spoke out against his father’s methods, he was beaten with a stall chain.

But who took the right approach towards the horse? The father or the son? The father’s methods certainly broke the horse, but some would argue the horse’s spirit went with it. Lawrence Scanlan, author of The man who listens to horses wrote this…

‘As part of sacking out, one hind leg was tied up with ropes and connected to a rope collar around the horse’s chest. With the horse’s foot off the ground, bucking was impossible. More sacking ensued, and finally a saddle was put on. The end result may well have been a cooperative horse, but something precious, Monty Roberts came to believe, had been lost.’

You might think it cruel. You might not. But compare this to Monty’s methods, and you’ll probably think it unnecessary. Why work hard to break a horse’s spirit, when that spirit is ‘willingness’. Work with it.

In 1997, Monty Roberts met the manic Happy Go Lucky. He rubbed the horse’s head as he talked. Using a line, he encouraged the horse to power around the perimeter of where he stood. Eventually the horse calmed, ‘maybe this man isn’t so bad’. Before long, Happy Go Lucky lowered his head and made chewing motions.

In 15 minutes, Monty Roberts achieved more than traditional horse breaking methods could achieve in 6 weeks.

“Can we talk,” Happy Go Lucky seemed to say.

And now onto Otto.

“The phrase “breaking a horse’s spirit” is often misunderstood. Traditional “breaking” methods aim to train a horse by removing resistance, but they risk diminishing a horse’s natural curiosity and willingness. In contrast, modern approaches to horse training focus on maintaining and even nurturing a horse’s spirit and enthusiasm for learning.”

“When a horse’s spirit is “broken” through harsh or overly forceful methods, the horse may become compliant, but often at the cost of trust, connection, and self-confidence. Horses are naturally curious, social animals that thrive on positive interactions and learning experiences. Harsh training methods can instill fear and discourage the horse from thinking independently, resulting in a horse that may obey but lacks the willingness and enjoyment that make a true partnership with a human rewarding.”

“Why break a horse’s ‘willing’ spirit? Instead of breaking a horse’s spirit, training should aim to guide and develop it. Using positive reinforcement, patience, and consistency, trainers can build a strong foundation of trust and respect. When a horse understands and feels comfortable with what is being asked, they’re more likely to respond willingly and with enthusiasm. This approach keeps the horse’s spirit intact, fostering a more willing and responsive partner.”

“Keeping a horse’s spirit alive also leads to better long-term behavior and emotional health. A willing horse is less likely to develop anxiety-related issues or resistance over time. Additionally, it enhances the relationship between horse and rider, creating a bond built on respect rather than fear.”

“Ultimately, the goal of training should be to develop a horse that is not just obedient, but also engaged, trusting, and happy. Preserving a horse’s spirit makes for a safer, more cooperative, and enjoyable experience for both horse and human, creating a partnership that honors the horse’s natural intelligence and sensitivity. Otto”

Next up

How to work with a stubborn horse?

The post Why break a horse’s ‘willing’ spirit? appeared first on Natural horse care and training tips.