When it comes to animals, sometimes they can accidentally get themselves stuck in some pretty unfortunate situations. For Girlie the Mule and Tick the horse, they found themselves in an extremely life-threatening situation just this past week. On Sunday August 16, at approximately 5:00 p.m., Marion Fire responded to a call at Merrow Farm on...
Equine 411: All About Draft Horses
As the gentle giants of the horse world, draft horses are as beautiful as they are fascinating. With dozens of different breeds from all over the world, these "heavy horses" have captivated the hearts of thousands. From the majestic Clydesdale to the rare Suffolk Punch, draft horses have been bred for centuries to fulfill specific...
Mane Or No Mane? The Pros And Cons Of Roached Manes
We all love a horse with a long flowing mane blowing in the wind as they gallop across the field. Simply put, a long mane is beautiful. For some horses, however, a short mane is much more practical. This is especially true for horses who are often in the show ring. This is usually done...
The Legacy Of Picasso Lives On In The Hearts Of Many
Picasso, the most famous stallion of the Sand Wash Basin, has carved a spot into the hearts of many horse lovers across the country. A symbol of freedom, perseverance, and strength, Picasso accrued a legion of fans in the many years he spent here on earth. Thought to be born in 1990, the last time...
Why Do Some Horses Have Mustaches?
When you think about a mustache, what is the first thing that pops into your mind? Perhaps an old western movie with two cowboys about to have a shoot out and before they go for their guns, it’s a must to make a twist on their handlebar mustache. Or, maybe a milk mustache or a...
How To Help Your Horse Get Used To Touch
In the first part of this series, we covered developing a positive leadership role with your horse. It cannot be said enough how important this role is to build your horse's confidence. The article also explains techniques for haltering an abused horse that doesn't want to be haltered. This part of the series, we will discuss teaching a...
Why Is It Rare To Spay Mares?
We all are familiar with the spaying and neutering of cats and dogs. These are widespread procedures used for behavior and health reasons, along with working towards reducing the number of unwanted litters. But what about horses? To geld, a male horse is the neutering process. It is a relatively straightforward procedure that is very...
Last Chance Corral Saves Nurse Mare Foals That Are Born To Die
"Hold fast to your dreams...but temper your ideals with reality." This is the quote lifetime horse rescuer Victoria Goss lives by (it also happens to be the Vermont state motto). As the founder of Last Chance Corral in Athens, Ohio, her dream is a world where nurse mare foals don't exist. Reality, however, is much...
Equine 411: All About The Gypsy Vanner Horse Breed
Unmistakable thanks to their gorgeous manes, long tails, and heavy feathering, the Gypsy Vanner horse breed is one of the most popular (and most beautiful) horse breeds in the world. If the name isn't familiar, you might know them as the Gypsy Cob, Irish Cob, or Tinker Horse. Regardless of the name, this small draft...
Best Horse Breeds For Larger Riders
Horses are loved by people of all shapes and sizes, and individuals weighing in around 250 lbs or more may feel discouraged and shy away from ever throwing a leg over a horse. But that number on the scale is just a number. There are horse breeds out there to suit everyone, no matter your...
New Book Called 'Horse Crazy' Is Determined A Must-Read For All
If you're looking for the next book to add to your shelf or need an interesting read to enjoy in your free time, the 2020 nonfiction novel entitled Horse Crazy: The Story of a Woman and World in Love With an Animal is proving to be a popular choice for all horse lovers. Written by...
Horse Soring: A Cruel Practice That Many Fear Still Continues
The Humane Society of the United States gives a voice to animals who need it most. And this is especially true when it comes to those cruel and unnecessary acts that animals face at the hands of humans. Horse soring is absolutely on that list of acts that should be punishable by law. No matter...
Equine Photographer Beautifully Captures The Essence Of Horses
If you love horses like I do, then chances are that you can look at photographs of them all day long. But when it comes to equine photography, not all images are created equal. Horses have a unique wild spirit that can't be broken, and if the person behind the lens appreciates this, then they...
How To Build Your Horse's Confidence
Do you have a horse that is skittish about everything? Perhaps it is a young horse or one that has been rescued from a situation of neglect or abuse. There are ways to build a horse's confidence. Patience, positive leadership, and time are the key ingredients. Don't forget to talk with your horse also. Something...
The Best Places To Pet A Horse And Areas To Avoid
Horses are like dogs in the respect that some want to be petted, and others aren't so thrilled about the idea. Some like to be rubbed in some areas, but other areas of their body are off-limits. This article is about petting a horse safely and finding out the "awe that feels good" spot on...
Five Funny Things That Horses Do And Why They Do Them
Although some may say horses are boring, the truth is, horses have comedic side. They might make faces and do things that look funny to us humans. But in general, there is a reason for their funny actions. Here's a list of five funny things that horses do and why they do them. 1. Showing...
Mother And Son Rescue Ponies Reunite After Four Years Apart
The pandemic has been turning life upside down since early March, and our horses haven't been immune to that turmoil. They've been dealing with stress and schedule changes, and a rescued gelding named Micky is no exception. The striking skewbald cob faced a major life change at the same time his country went into lockdown....
Even A Global Pandemic Can't Stop This Horse Rescue From Saving Lives
After months of a global pandemic, businesses, organizations, and individuals are still feeling the strain. Personal finances have been hit hard, and the mental toll of living in such uncertain times cannot be underestimated. But through it all, there are certain causes that can't afford to take a step back. There can be no such...
Common Horse Sounds and Their Meanings
Ever wonder what your horse is saying to you? The language of equines is complex. Many equestrians have dedicated their lives to becoming behavioral experts and understanding the language of the horse, both physical and vocal. Granted, horses can’t speak your language, but horses and humans have fascinating ways of communicating with themselves and each...
Equine 411: All About The Orlov Trotter
The Orlov Trotter is one of the most loved and celebrated Russian native breeds, originally bred in the 18th century by Count Alexey Orlov at his Khrenovsky Stud. The Orlov Trotter is renowned for its fast trot, outstanding stamina, and graceful looks. Unfortunately, the Orlov Trotter is a lesser-known breed outside of Russia and Europe....
What To Know About When Horses Lie Down
When you are driving and you pass a horse lying down in a field, what is your first reaction? For most of us horse lovers, we tend to think, “IS HE BREATHING?!” We may even pull over and honk and wait for their head to pop up so we can see them breathe for ourselves....
Senior Horses Find New Life At This Golf Course Turned Rehabilitation Barn
When Fred Snow bought an old golf course in Ottawa, Kansas seven years ago, he wasn't interested in sinking putts or making it under par. He had a much different plan for the large parcel of lush land. With the addition of a few fences and run-in sheds, Snow turned the area into a haven...
How To Read Your Horse's Ears
Ask most anyone, "How do horses communicate?" And more often than not, the answer you get will refer to vocal communication, such as whinny, neigh, or snort. Horses have a more subtle way to communicate as well. They are masters at body language. Everything from the carriage of their heads, the position of the ears,...
Are Horses Capable of Love?
There are definitely strong opinions on this subject. Some say horses can love their human companions. Others say they only love other animals in their herd. It really depends on your definition of the word love. What is your definition of love? Merriam Webster defines the word "love" as "a strong affection for another arising...
Police Officers Rescue Terrified Horse From Burning Barn
We live in strange times, but stories like this restore your faith in humanity. We know that horses are naturally timid creatures, so for Phoebe, when her barn went up in flames, she was naturally terrified and wouldn't budge. In Bucks County, Pennsylvania, officers arrived on the scene last Thursday at 10:38AM at Red Wing...
15 Foods You Should Never Feed Your Horse
While we all know a healthy diet is essential to a horse's well-being, there's nothing wrong with spoiling them with a special treat every now and then. Apples, sugar cubes, and peppermints are go-to horse favorites, and there's a relatively long list of other human foods you can safely share with your equine best friend...
BLM Plans Emergency Roundup Of 125 Wild Horses
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has announced that starting July 28, they'll be conducting two separate wild horse gathers in the Southern Nevada District. The first will be on the Nevada Wild Horse Range Herd Management Area (HMA) about 30 miles east of Tonopah, and the second will be on Montezuma Peak HMA in...
Introducing Ghost: The Newest Recruit Into The United States Space Force
While the United States Space Force aims for the stars in their mission to protect the country, their newest recruit has four hooves planted firmly on the ground. Ghost, a five-year-old BLM mustang, is proving that Space Force isn't all about rocket ships and satellites. The military working horse is the newest equine to join...
These Converted Horse Trailers Are The Coolest Creations Ever
When you have horses, you're bound to have a horse trailer if you transport your horses to other locations. But what about when you no longer need your horse trailer, or it's time to upgrade? Well, there are creative types who are eager to buy them and either use them for their intended purpose or...
Horseback Riders Could Lose Their Right To Beach Rides In This Picturesque Town
Horseback rider Johnny Loizides says the beach on Hayling Island in Hampshire, England has welcomed horseback riders since before he was born. Riders from all over the country travel to this three-mile stretch of sand for the freedom and exhilaration that can only come from a beautiful beach ride. While the beach has been a...
Equine 411: All About The Cleveland Bay Horse
Listed on “5 Most Endangered Horse Breeds,” the Cleveland Bay Horse is one of the oldest breeds from northeast England. These horses were used everywhere from the fields to drawing a carriage and then almost became extinct. Today, Cleveland Bay Horses are used in many disciplines. A big horse with a big background, here is...
Why Does My Horse Look Sad?
Horse depression is a real thing. This article is not about how horse owners get depressed when they haven’t been able to ride for a few weeks, although that can be depressing. It is about a state of depression horses get. Research shows that horses can indeed enter a state of depression. As horse owners,...
The Boss Mare: What She Means To The Herd
In the equine world, especially wild horse herds, the stallion and the "boss mare" have distinct roles in the herd's survival. In this article, we will focus on the boss mare. Do you have a mare that seems to boss all the other horses in the pasture? Does she pin her ear back and keep...
Adoptable Blind Horse Uses Her Art Skills To Raise Money For Other Horses
Horse Haven of Tennessee in Lenoir City is a non-profit known best for saving lives. Every year they take in the neglected, forgotten, and abused horses. They heal wounds, both physical and mental, and they don't give up until each horse has a new life with a new family. Every horse that walks through their...
Seattle Slew: The Tale Of An Extraordinary Racing Legend
You don't have to be an expert on horse racing to recognize the name Seattle Slew. With an unrivaled reputation as not only a champion and Triple Crown winner, but an unexpected competitor who went on to be the best, this iconic racehorse is in line with other legends including Man-O-War and Secretariat. The life...
Equine 411: All About The Shire Horse Breed
All horse breeds have their own unique and wonderful characteristics and history; but few are as synonymous with British history and heritage as the famous Shire. The Shire horse has played an integral role in the development of a nation for sure, with roots thought to go back to the Middle Ages. Keep reading to...
The Roan Horse Pattern: A Unique Coat That’s Admired By Many
The roan horse’s flashy and stunning colour is admired throughout the world. Roan horses can appear in every traditional colour, from bay to chestnut and grey. Unique and wonderful in their appearance, their speckled coat stands out in any crowd and turns heads. The roan gene is essentially a white overlay on a solid base...
Why Do Some Horses Eat Dirt?
Have you ever seen your horse consume dirt out in the field and wonder what the heck? You are not sure whether to be worried and call the veterinarian or go about your business. Eating dirt is called Geophagia, and it can be a good and bad thing for horses. Here are some reasons why...
Newborn Filly Is Hope For Rare Horse Breed On Brink Of Extinction
Once an important part of Britain's agricultural industry, the Suffolk Punch is now at risk of extinction. There are fewer than 72 Suffolk Punch mares left in the UK, but a recent birth offers new hope for this beautiful draft breed. A healthy filly whose sex was predetermined by scientists may be the key to...
Tail Talk: Here's What Your Horse's Tail Movements Really Mean
Long and flowy, frizzy, braided, or banged, a horse's tail is always one of their best features. While we're all standing around admiring this gorgeous physical feature, however, we often don't realize that a horse's tail contributes to more than their good looks. Horse tails are actually an important part of how our equine friends...
How Do I Know Which Riding Style Is Right For Me?
You put in the time doing ground exercises with your horse, and now you are well on your way to developing a loving relationship based on respect and guided leadership. Next, you need to figure out which type of riding style is right for you. There are numerous types of riding styles. Deciding which is...
5 Common Mistakes Horse Riders Make
No matter what we do in life, there is always a learning curve. Horsemanship and horse ownership are no exception. Horses are large animals with minds of their own and can be deadly if you are not careful. This is why we encourage new horse owners to get the assistance of someone who is already...
Young Corolla Wild Horse Dies After Choking On Apple
The Corolla Wild Horse Fund and the entire Outer Banks community is grieving the loss of a yearling colt named Danny. The young wild horse died on Friday in what the Corolla Wild Horse Fund is calling a "horrific, devastating, completely preventable way." Danny choked on an apple—a food not part of his natural diet—and...
Hidden Dangers That Could Be Lurking In Your Barn
Your horse is basically your child, just a 1200 lb child that you aren’t allowed to bring inside of your house. How do we compensate for this? We give them a barn to keep them out of the weather and when they are not feeling quite themselves. The barn has to be perfect of course,...
Princess Merida's Horse Gets Spooked On Reopening Day At Disney World
Although visiting a theme park is the very last thing I could think to do right now, Disney World in Florida reopened its doors again this past weekend to the public after being closed for nearly four months. Masks are clearly a requirement when visiting the happiest place on Earth, and the dedicated employees are...
Warning Signs Your Horse Might Be In Pain
As much as we wish our horses could talk about what is on their mind or if they are in pain, they just can’t speak the words and a snort or neigh could be taken either way. Your horse relies on you to be able to read their body language to know if something is...
Tips For Better Communication With Your Horse
Have you communicated with your horse today? Unfortunately, texting them is not an option, although we wish it was. Communication with your horse is vital for bonding, respect, and understanding. Here’s how to use touch and pressure, talk, and tone of voice to communicate with your horse and why it is so important. Here's how...
Why Horses Kick And How To Teach Them To Stop
It is helpful to understand why horses kick. Then we can use this knowledge to teach them to stop kicking. Horses are a prey animal. For thousands of years they have used a herd hierarchy system for the survival of the fittest. Horse herds were developed as a means of defense against predators. When you have...
Why Do Horses Get the Zoomies?
If you have a dog, you’ve seen them all of a sudden get the zoomies around the house or yard like a crazy, insanely hyper puppy. Well, horses can get the zoomies too! And if you look up “mini horse zoomies” your day will be made! So what exactly are zoomies and why in the...
Ways To Know Your Horse Trusts You
Trust in a human-equine relationship is just as crucial for the horse as it is for the human. We should never trust our equine friends 100 percent. Sometimes they forget that we are considerably smaller than they are. However, we can use trust and respect to develop a strong, loving bond that will last a...