Ireland’s relationship with horses is deeply rooted in its history, culture, and landscape. This small island nation has earned a reputation as the “Land of the Horse” for good reason as horses have been integral to Irish culture for millennia. Archaeological evidence suggests that horses were present in Ireland as …
Being around horses, you’ll quickly hear about getting Coggins done, but you may not know what it’s for or what it tells you about your horse. A Coggins test is a blood test performed by a veterinarian to see if a horse has EIA antibodies. There are multiple tests to …
There’s something extra-special about a grey or white horse. These horses naturally stand out from the rest of the herd, so don’t they deserve an extra-special name to reflect that, too? Naming a white horse can be a delightful task, as their majestic and pure appearance lends itself to a …
Doma Vaquera is a traditional style of riding and horsemanship originating from Spain, closely associated with the work of cattle herders (vaqueros). It is distinct from the more internationally known discipline of classical dressage, with its own unique style, equipment, and history. Doma Vaquera has its roots in the practices …
Alta Escuela refers to the “high school” of classical dressage. This Spanish phrase translates to “high school” and is used to denote advanced dressage movements and techniques that go beyond the basic or “lower” school (Doma Vaquera) of training. Alta Escuela has its roots in the classical equestrian traditions of …
Hydrotherapy for horses is a therapeutic technique that involves the controlled use of water to aid in the rehabilitation, fitness, and overall well-being of horses. It utilises various water-based treatments and exercises to promote healing, reduce pain, and enhance the horse’s physical condition. Hydrotherapy can be particularly beneficial for horses …
Yes, horses can swim, and they’re even pretty good at it, considering that their bodies are made for running, not swimming. In the wild, many herd animals need to cross a body of water from time to time. Maybe the most well-known example of this is also the most dramatic …
As horse owners, we always seek the best practices to ensure our horses are healthy and happy. One such practice that significantly impacts their well-being is ground level feeding, yet hanging up hay nets is a common practise that we don’t even think about twice. But horses are naturally designed …
Vomiting is a complex physiological event that requires a closely coordinated sequence of reflexive motions. When you are going to throw up, you draw a deep breath, your vocal cords close, your larynx rises, and the soft palate shifts to close off your airways. Then your diaphragm contracts downward, which …
When it comes to the well-being of your horse, observation is your best tool. Your horse can’t tell you how they feel, but several indicators can help you determine if your horse is in prime condition. Spending time with your horse as well as knowing the general signs of well-being …
Colic in horses refers to abdominal pain and is a common condition that can have a range of causes. It’s important to understand that “colic” is not a disease in itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying problem in the horse’s gastrointestinal tract. Colic in horses is a term …
Deworming your horse is a critical component of equine health care. Horses are susceptible to various internal parasites like roundworms, tapeworms, bots, and strongyles. These parasites can infest the horse’s gastrointestinal tract and other organs, leading to health issues. Parasites interfere with nutrient absorption, leading to malnutrition and weight loss. …
