Its happened. Your daughter wants to ride horses. Maybe she saw someone in a movie, or she found some old copies of The Saddle Club, but theres no escaping it now. She needs to ride a horse, and she might literally die if she doesnt. My brother just went through this, forced to enter the world of horses, with me screaming advice and cheering on his daughter.Im about to do the same for you.How do you navigate this new world?Well, I can tell you what you shouldnt do: Dont go ask that one person you know with horses if your child can come ride. Its a long standing joke in the horse world, weve all been asked, and we almost never want someone to come ride our personal horses. All horses are not the same, and personal horses are almost never suitable for beginners. Its not personal, we just dont want anyone hurt.Instead, follow these steps:Find a Qualified InstructorNote: In horse world, instructor and trainer can be used somewhat interchangeably. An instructor teaches riding lessons, and a trainer trains horses, but can also train people.One of the problems, or possibly advantage, of the horse world in America is that literally anyone can call themselves a horse trainer. This is great for aspiring riders who truly have a strong base of knowledge and want to pass it on, BUT its also the worst because people who have no qualifications or knowledge and are also possibly just a terrible person, can also call themselves a trainer. Literally nearly every horse friend I have has a horror story of riding with an unqualified trainer and how it messed with their heads, and left long lasting triggers about some aspect of horses.That means its up to you to do your due diligence in ensuring your daughter goes to a good barn.Where to Find an InstructorPersonal recommendations is a great way to find an instructor. One of the best places to ask is on your local Facebook group, especially if you find a horse themed local Facebook group. You may be able to find a smaller (i.e. cheaper) barn who just gets kids started. If the kids stick with it, they can move to a more advanced barn.There are also organizations that will help you get started:The United States Equestrian Federation website, where theres a whole list of registered and qualified instructors.The United States Pony Club is a great organization for children to learn about horses, and they have riding centers with qualified instructors.Ask for a Trial LessonYou found your instructor. Now ask for a trial lesson. Dont be convinced to buy a lesson package without doing a trial first. If your daughter doesnt like it, youre either out a lot of money, or locked in at some place you dont like.The trial isnt just to make sure your daughter likes the horses, but also to make sure you actually like the instructor, the location, the setting, any staff, or even just the general vibe. Horse riding is too expensive to spend your money at the wrong place, and theres no reason to commit to a place you dont like.Heres what you should talk about on the initial phone call (and yes, please make it a phone call, not a text conversation.)Ask about:Can you tell me about your lesson horses? (You want to hear safe, bombproof, babysitter, gentle, or confidence building.)Can you tell me how you usually structure your first lesson? What should they expect to learn? (This will vary by instructor, but you should be expecting your student to learn some basic horse handling on the ground, how to mount and dismount, and basic controls including walk, halt, and turn.)Can you tell me what to expect about the rate of progression in your students? How soon are they trotting? How soon are they cantering? When do you introduce jumping? (Instructors should be challenging the student, but not at a scary pace. Students should have independent control of the horse at each stage before the horse moves faster or does more complicated moves.)Do you provide group or private lessons? (There is a benefit to both formats. Children tend to enjoy group lessons because they will make friends with the other children. Private lesson do provide more personalized instruction, but typically the lesson is much shorter and its more expensive.)Do students groom and tack up their horses? (Ideally yes, since they should learn about horsemanship. They may not the first few times as they will be in the learning stages.)Do you take your students to shows? Do you take students on trail rides or on any outings? (I personally dont care about showing, but many people do, so if your child wants to show, you should ask. I do think its important for students to learn how to ride outside a ring though, so ask if your instructor ever takes them out of the ring.)Now lets talk about how to prepare for your first lesson.How to Prepare for the LessonYour new instructor will have likely given you this information (and if they didnt, thats a red flag) but your student needs to arrive at their lesson with a riding helmet and boots with a small heel. Sometimes the instructor will provide a helmet to borrow, but it is a major red flag if your instructor says you can ride in sneakers.Why do you need riding boots to ride horses?Riding boots are designed for protection. The stiff leather protects feet from being crushed if a horse steps on them. Chances are, this will happen at some point, my horse stepped on my foot about a month ago. Horses usually weigh 1000 lbs or more, so thats a lot of weight to be on a foot. Ive seen the serious feet injuries, dont take any chances on something so preventable.When you are mounted, the small heel stops the boot from sliding right through the stirrup. Riders have been dragged by getting their feet caught in stirrups, with sometimes fatal consequences. Take it seriously, and get a boot with a little heel.Its important to note that fashion boots are NOT riding boots. Do not ride in boots you found at DSW or the mall. They are not the same, as fashion boots are usually made with flimsy materials that do not provide any protection (and honestly they look weird and out of place at the barn. Even if they are $800 designer boots that call themselves riding boots, no self respecting rider is going to wear them to the barn). Riding boots are made differently, so go with actual riding boots.You need to go to a tack store or order them from an online retailer. Tack stores include Dover Saddlery, SmartPak, or there may be independent stores in your area. TuffRider Childrens Starter Front Zip Paddock Boots, Mocha, 3Dover Saddlery Riding Sport Kids Provenance Zip Paddock Boots, Size: 3, Color: BlackHorse Riding HelmetsYou need to protect your childs head. Do not trust any place that allows you to ride without a helmet, they do not have your childs best interests in mind. Everyone will fall eventually, horses stumble, and sometimes they are just straight up naughty. A helmet greatly reduces injuries. Do not take risks with your childs head.Helmets are pretty cheap, so theres really no reason to not buy one. Even if your instructor can loan you one, its better to get your own, as they should be replaced after every fall, or at the most, every five years. Chances are your instructor is probably in a void with no concept of time so she likely doesnt remember when the helmets were purchased. This is normal for riding instructors, they are frequently lost in the void of time (you get used to it.).When buying a helmet, make sure it is ASTM F1163-15 and SEI Certified. There are a lot of fake helmets on Amazon, so just be wary of what you purchase. Troxel, Ovation, TuffRider, International Riding Helmets (IRH), Tipperary, and Charles Owen are all trustworthy helmet brands. For a beginner riding helmet, go with Troxel, Ovation or TuffRider, the price point just makes more sense.TuffRider Starter Basic Equestrian Horse Riding Helmet Black MediumTroxel Sport 2.0 Injection Molded Horse Riding Helmet, Lightweight Adjustable Design, Safety Horseback Riding Gear, Extra Small (6-1/4-6-1/2), MintWhat Your Child Should Wear for Their Horse Riding LessonFor the first lesson, jeans with a bit of stretch or leggings are fine. Any shirt is fine, although coverage is good, as horses and barns are pretty dirty, so kids will end up pretty dirt. In fact, keep that in mind, whatever you put on them is going to get dirty.You really dont need to invest a lot into riding gear to start with. Make sure your child actually likes it. If your child does like it, riding leggings with grips and sunshirts for summer, or thermal shirts for winter, are great for lessons without spending a ton of money.FitsT4 Sports Girls Horse Riding Pants Full Seat Silicone Kids Equestrian Breeches Horseback Pockets Youth Schooling Tights Navy X-SmallHarrison Howard Kids Equestrian Breeches Girls Knee-Patch Horse Riding Pants Schooling Tights Stretchy Performance Riding Tights for Kids Pinkish Orange SmallSunshirtFitsT4 Sports Girls Long Sleeves Shirts Thumbhole English Horse Riding Shirt UPF50 Quick Dry Kids Equestrain Half Zip Jacket Pink SmallThermal Shirtberoy Girls Fleece Long Sleeve Shirts Half Zip Equestrain Shirt Thermal Kids Horse Riding Shirts Thumbhole Pockets(Beige,L)SunscreenHorses are generally ridden outside. Theres a lot of sun. The sand reflects light up on your childs face. Dont forget your sunscreen.Show how serious you are about skin protection by getting this hilariously oversized tub of Sunscreen. But you could also just use normal sunscreen, thats fine, too.Going to Your LessonThe day has finally come. Your daughter is thrilled, and youre about to embark on a whole new adventure with her. Its the start of a great era, I promise you.Youll show up, and your instructor, or possibly an enthusastic teenage girl, will be there to guide you through the whole process. There shouldnt be any moments where youre completely lost or feeling abandoned. Your daughter should have all the guidance to make this a wonderful experience, and theres probably a chair for you to sit on and watch. This should all feel very easy.I say all this because its extremely common for students to end up with bad instructors and feel like they are stuck at a barn. You arent stuck. If something doesnt feel right, go to another barn. Theres no reason to stay with a bad instructor, or someone who makes you feel uncomfortable, has horses that look over worked or underfed, or someone who screams at students. Dont stay at this barn. Theres too many nice ones to waste time and money at a bad one.If you have a feeling in your gut that something isnt right, act on it. Ask online, directly confront your instructor about it, or you can even email me, Ill tell you if its weird. Dont get stuck at a bad barn. This is supposed to be an enjoyable experience, not something stressful or uncomfortable.The days of drill instructor style instruction are over, especially at the beginner level. If you choose to do that when youre training for the Olympics, thats your decision. But no child should be screamed at because they are learning.So if it feels wrong, dont just wonder, ask about it. There could be a perfectly reasonable explanation, or you could be uncovering the plot of crime drama. Sometimes it can be hard to say with horse people.But your daughter should be having a great time. If she isnt, find somewhere else.If she is having a great time, youve done it. Well done. Congratulations! Youre now involved with an incredible sport that will take over your entire life!Its worth it, I promise.Eventually, this could be your daughter.Further Resources for the New RiderA once a week lesson often isnt enough for the budding equestrian. They crave more horses. So you, as the most amazing parent to exist, can impress your daughter with more horse time.There are clubs she can join United States Pony Club is the gold standard for learning horsemanship, with many professional riders having been through it. 4-H is a more casual riding club, you may have to google 4-H horse Your State to find the horse clubs.Although its impossible to learn feel without being on an actual horse, theres online learning resources, such as Noelle Floyd and Equestrian Coach that allow riders to learn principles that they can apply to their riding. If your daughter ends up with a horse of her own, it may be an even more valuable resource to have on hand.Theres also books, with my personal favorite being The United States Pony Club Manual of Horsemanship. It is all the basics riders should know to become good horseman. You could fall into a wormhole of horse books on every conceivable topic, but the basics are so important, and the building blocks of everything.Your daughter should be on her way to a great future with horses now. Enjoy the journey and let it happen organically. These are core memories she will remember for the rest of her life.Happy trails!The post My Child Wants to Ride Horses, Where Do I Start? appeared first on An Equestrian Life.

On March 21, a 14-year-old warmblood gelding in Volusia County, Florida, tested positive for strangles. The horse developed clinical signs on March 13, including a fever, cough, and nasal discharge. He is under quarantine, and 11 horses are exposed.This is Floridas 11thconfirmed strangles case in 2025.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About StranglesStranglesin horses is an infection caused byStreptococcus equisubspeciesequiand spread through direct contact with other equids or contaminated surfaces. Horses that arent showing clinical signs can harbor and spread the bacteria, and recovered horses remain contagious for at least six weeks, with the potential to cause outbreaks long-term.Infected horses can exhibit a variety of clinical signs:FeverSwollen and/or abscessed lymph nodesNasal dischargeCoughing or wheezingMuscle swellingDifficulty swallowingVeterinarians diagnose horses using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing with either a nasal swab, wash, or an abscess sample, and they treat most cases based on clinical signs, implementing antibiotics for severe cases. Overuse of antibiotics can prevent an infected horse from developing immunity. Most horses make a full recovery in three to four weeks.A vaccine is available but not always effective. Biosecurity measures of quarantining new horses at a facility and maintaining high standards of hygiene and disinfecting surfaces can helplower the risk of outbreakorcontain one when it occurs.

Our very own Tik Maynard is back at Road to the Horse and were throwing a weekend-long watch party to cheer him on!Fire up the livestream and join us here in the NF+ community from March 28 30 as Tik defends his title at the World Championship of Colt Starting in Louisville, KY.Here's how to join us... Catch all the action live (and free!) on the officialRoad to the Horse YouTube. Join our daily watch party threads inthe RTTH forumto chat about the competition, because... Everyone who comments in the RTTH threads this weekend will be entered for a chance to win a free, private 30-minute Office Hours session with Tik!And when we'll be tuning in...Friday, March 282:00 PM ET / 11:00 AM PT Championship Round 1Saturday, March 2911:00 AM ET / 8:00 AM PT Tiks Clinic2:00 PM ET / 11:00 AM PT Championship Round 2Sunday, March 30 (Tiks time slot TBDstay tuned!)10:45 AM ET / 7:45 AM PT Championship Round 3, Competitor 1 & 21:15 PM ET / 10:15 AM PT Championship Round 3, Competitor 3 & 4PS if you're attending in person in Lexington, drop by the NF+ booth on the sponsor concourse to meet the team & Tik!

The difference between a rider and a horseman? Understanding.You love your horse. You show up, day after day, pouring your heart into training. You do your best to be patient, to be fair. Youve read the books, watched the videos, followed the advice. And yetsome days, it feels like nothing is working.Your horse wont come to you in the pasture. He spooks at the same corner of the arena, over and over. He hesitates, resists, checks out completely. And that whisper of self-doubt starts creeping in.Am I doing something wrong?Is my horse stubborn? Unwilling? Or is it me?Why does this feel so much harder than it should?Maybe youve felt the weight of judgment from other riderslike you should be tougher, like you need to show him whos boss. Maybe youve tried to shut out that voice inside you, the one telling you there must be another wayone that isnt about force, but about connection.Or maybe youre just overwhelmed. From the pressure to get it right. From all the conflicting advice that makes you question your instincts. From feeling alone in your desire to train with kindness in a world that often prioritizes results over relationships.This is an industry issue.Many riders strugglenot because they lack skill, but because traditional training methods often skip over something essential: the horses perspective. We are taught techniques before we learn to listen. We are given tools before we are taught to observe.But what if we approached horsemanship differently? What if we stopped trying to make our horses do things and instead learned how to create a relationship where they want to?Tik Maynards Four Building Blocks to Better Horsemanship changes everything we knew about training horses. Its about learning to see them, hear them, and understand them in a way that transforms your partnership.It all comes down to four fundamental building blocks: Observation, Communication, Motivation, and Play. Lets break them downalong with the challenges many riders face, and how these principles offer a way through.1. Observation: Learning to See Before We DoThe Challenge: You show up at the barn, excited to ride, but your horse doesnt share this viewpoint. Theyre distracted, unresponsive, or tenseand you dont know why.Is it you? Is it them? Are you missing something?The Shift:"Theres no limit to how good we can get at observing a horse. The moment we think weve learned it all, we stop seeing the subtle things that matter most." Tik MaynardMost of us were never taught to pause and truly see our horse before asking for anything. Yet, observation is where everything starts.How Observation Changes the Game:You recognize the small, subtle signals your horse gives before they escalate into tension or resistance.You learn to meet them where they are, instead of expecting them to meet you where you want them to be.You build trust, because your horse knows they are being heard before they are being asked.Try This:Before you pick up a lead rope or tighten your girth, just watch. Notice their breathing, their ears, the way they shift their weight. What are they telling you about how they feel today?2. Communication: Moving from Command to ConversationThe Challenge: Youre going through all motions youve been taught. You ask for a transition, a turn, a movement. Your horse does itbut it feels robotic, disconnected. Or maybe they dont do it, and youre left wondering, What am I doing wrong?The Shift:"The real skill isnt making a horse do somethingits knowing if they understand or if theyre just reacting from stress. Tik MaynardWe often think were communicating when were really just commanding. True communication isnt about making a horse do somethingits about creating shared understanding.How to Build True Communication:Give your horse space to think and respond instead of micromanaging.Notice The Lookthat moment when your horse shifts from compliance to curiosity.Use pressure and release in a way that fosters trust, not confusion or fear.Try This:Next time you ask your horse for something, ask softly firstjust a thought, a shift in energy. If they dont respond, gradually build up pressure, but notice when they understand. Do they respond to phase one? Or does it take more?Then, refine it. Repeat the request a few times, aiming for a lighter and lighter response. Look for The Lookthat moment when theyre thinking with you, not just reacting. The goal? A quiet, clear conversation where a whisper is enough.3. Motivation: Why Your Horse Needs More Than Just ObedienceThe Challenge: Your horse follows your cues, but there is no spark or enthusiasm. Their movements lack energy, their expression is dull, and they seem to be doing the bare minimum. Theyre not resistingbut theyre not truly engaged either. Are they just tolerating the work instead ofwanting to participate?The Shift:"A horse that feels safe is a horse that can learn. Fear blocks understandingsafety unlocks motivation. Tik MaynardMost training relies on pressure and release, but motivation is about more than avoiding discomfort. Its about understanding what makes your horse want to engage.How to Create Willingness Instead of Resistance:Recognize the difference between tolerance and true acceptance.Understand how fear, curiosity, and reward shape your horses responses.Use positive reinforcement and play to shift training from an obligation into a partnership.Try This:Find what makes your horses ears perk upscratches in a favorite spot, a moment of rest, a reward. Build that into training and notice how their enthusiasm changes.4. Play: The Missing Ingredient in TrainingThe Challenge: Training feels like a routine. You go through the process, but cant help wondering if youve lost the feeling of joy that made you fall in love with horses in the first place.The Shift:"The best sessions happen when you stop trying to be perfect and start trying to find harmony. Play lives in that space between structure and spontaneity." Tik MaynardWe forget that horses play by nature. Its how they bond, learn, and grow. When we bring play into training, we invite lightness, curiosity, and connection back into our work.How to Add Play to Your Training:Match Your Energy: Adjust your movement and intention to engage your horses curiosity.Let Play Be Personal: Some horses love liberty, others prefer scratchesfind what excites yours.Stop Overthinking: Be present, listen, and respondplay happens when you let go.Try This:Next time you work with your horse, add a moment of spontaneous play. Hide a carrot on a jump, ask them to unwind from the leadrope, have them touch a target. Watch how their whole energy shifts.Bonus: Watch Tik Maynard Teaches Introducing Play with Your Horse on NF+Partnership isnt forcedits earned, one moment, one feel, one release at a time.When it comes to creating a willing and engaged partnership, the answer isnt found in more techniques or harsher methods. The answer is found in understanding.Tik Maynards Four Building Blocks to Better Horsemanship is an invitation to shift the way we see, listen, and engage with our horses. To replace pressure with partnership. To move from control to connection.Because the real transformation? It isnt just in the horseits in you.Ready to Change the Way You Train?Tik Maynards Four Building Blocks to Better Horsemanship is now streaming exclusively on NF+.Join NF+ today and unlock this cinematic docuseries, plus expert-led courses and a passionate equestrian community.Watch the series now and experience the power of true connection with your horse.Join NF+ and start streaming!

Courtesy PurinaDevelopmental orthopedic disease (DOD) refers to a group of conditions involving abnormalwhere skeletal growth in young horses and is a common concern for owners and veterinarians. Development of DOD is multifactorial, influenced by genetics, management, and nutrition. While nutritional mismanagement is a key contributor, proper nutrition can help support horses with abnormal growth or manage the risk of DOD.Young Horse Feeding BasicsFeeding young horses requires careful planning, starting before birth. Ensuring the mares optimal nutrition before, during, and after pregnancy is essential for fetal development and milk quality during lactation. Nutritional programs can be designed to support rapid vs. moderate vs. slow rates. However these decisions should be made early with few changes occurring during the early growth period. Foals should begin consuming concentrates at around 28 days olda good rule of thumb is 1 pound of feed per month of age per day. Feeding with progressive and consistent increases in concentrate amount will allow for the desired steady growth curves associated with optimal skeletal development. Erratic changes in which an improper concentrate is fed, free-choice access is offered, or sudden changes to concentrate amount occur, can result in the unpredictable growth curves that are the hallmarks of DOD development.Feeding Horses With Developmental AbnormalitiesEven with optimal nutrition, and more often in cases with sub optimal feeding practices, DOD commonly develops. Its a misconception that excess calories or protein alone causes DOD. Instead, imbalances in these and other nutrients have been linked to abnormal growth.Upon diagnosis, energy content should be evaluated, and adjustments made to avoid rapid growth. The goal should be to reduce energy consumption without restricting amino acid, vitamin, and mineral intake necessary for optimal growth.Ration-balancing feeds are good tools to provide nutrients when forage alone is providing the calories. If forage quality is poor or complete control of the diet is necessary, complete feed with forage built in can be used.In addition to energy and protein, other nutrients exist in a delicate balance and should be maintained at certain ratios to ensure optimal utilization. Calcium and phosphorus are classic examples and should remain balanced to a ratio of no less than 1:1 (2:1 being optimal). Similarly, copper and zinc must be maintained in a critical balancearound 4:1 for the complete diet.Take-Home MessageIn conclusion, following these feeding guidelines can help reduce the risk of DOD in young horses:Focus on proper nutrition during pregnancy.Feed diets designed for growing horses.Evaluate the entire diet, including forage quality.Balance energy and protein intake.Ensure optimal mineral ratios.Use ration-balancing feeds when energy needs are met by forage.Utilize a complete feed if forage quality is poor or otherwise necessary.Reevaluate the diet as the horses needs change during growth and training.By adhering to these guidelines, the risk of developmental musculoskeletal issues can be minimized, promoting healthy growth and development. For additional information and nutritional support, request a consult with a Purina PhD equine nutritionist.

Working animal charity Brooke won the Peoples Choice Award for its filmBrooke at 90at the2025 Smiley Charity Film Awardswhich took place in London last week.Brooke at 90, whichis voiced by Ted Lasso actress Annette Badland, uses archival and present-day footage to explore the charitys 90-year history of improving the lives of working animals. The short film was a gold award winner in the Peoples Choice Award in the 15-50 million category at the ceremony which took place at Indigo at the O2 on Thursday 20 March. The award was decided by a public vote.I am immensely proud to support Brooke, a charity that impacts the lives of millions of working equines in communities where they are needed most, said Annette.It is truly an honour to be part of this award-winning film a remarkable story of hope. Reading the script moved me deeply, and I am delighted that it has touched so many others, as reflected in the response of the voters.About the awardsThe annual Smiley Charity Film Awards were created tocelebrate the success of film in fundraising, to increase exposure of charity films and to encourage donations for good causes.The awards arethe worlds largest cause-based film campaign and have helped more than 5,000 causes gain exposure, donations and volunteers since their creation seven years ago.At the 2023 Charity Film Awards, Brooke won the Grand Prix Peoples Choice Award forUnbreakable Bonds, a film which showed how bonds between people and animals build foundations for life-changing relationships.For more information about the awards and for a list of winners, click here.Related contentHow to tell if a horse is happyUK bans live export of horses for slaughterPetition set up with the aim of updating the Dangerous Dogs Act to better protect horsesPublic attitudes towards horse sport on the right track but there is still more to doLearn to read your horses body language with this expert adviceThe post Brooke triumphs at charity film awards appeared first on Your Horse.

Key Points Details Dressage Defined Elegant, intricate equestrian discipline showcasing harmony between horse and rider. Recent Allegations Misconduct allegations against prominent equestrians, including Evi & Tanya Strasser, Sir Lee Pearson, and Charlotte Dujardin. Ethical Considerations Balancing excellence in dressage with protecting horse welfare; scrutiny over whip use. Regulatory Body Actions FEI and national federations conduct independent investigations, suspend riders, and maintain transparency. Beyond Competitions Organizations like USEF expand jurisdiction to address misconduct off competition grounds, effective December 1, 2024. Conclusion Dressage community must uphold ethical standards, ensuring horse welfare to protect sport integrity. The Ethical Dilemma of Dressage: Addressing Allegations of Horse Misconduct in Competitive Riding Dressage, a refined and precise form of horse riding, has long been celebrated for its elegance and harmony between horse and rider. However, amidst this sophisticated backdrop, recent allegations of horse misconduct have cast a critical shadow over the sport. In this article, we will delve into the ethical considerations surrounding these allegations, exploring the challenges faced by the equestrian community, and the measures being taken to address them. Introduction to Dressage Dressage is a sophisticated equestrian discipline that requires a high level of skill and understanding between the horse and rider. It involves the performance of predetermined movements in a precise manner, often set to music, showcasing not just technical skill, but also the beauty of horse and rider in perfect sync. This intricate relationship between the horse and its rider is what makes dressage both captivating and complex. Recent Allegations and Investigations Recent months have seen a rise in allegations of misconduct involving prominent figures in the equestrian world. For instance, Canadian riders Evi and Tanya Strasser were provisionally suspended by Equestrian Canada due to allegations of misconduct, which are currently under investigation. Similarly, British Equestrian suspended Sir Lee Pearson, a renowned Paralympic dressage rider, over misconduct allegations unrelated to equine welfare. Furthermore, Charlotte Dujardin, an Olympic medalist known for her outstanding achievements in dressage, faced allegations of animal welfare misconduct after a video surfaced showing her using a whip excessively during a coaching session. This incident led to her voluntary withdrawal from the Paris 2024 Olympics and a provisional suspension by both the FEI and British Equestrian. Ethical Considerations At the heart of these allegations is a critical ethical dilemma: balancing the pursuit of excellence in dressage with the imperative to protect the welfare of horses. The use of whips, though historically part of equestrian practices, has come under scrutiny as a potential form of animal abuse. The British Riding Clubs, for instance, stress that a whip should only be used to support the direction from the rider's seat and legs, and never as a means to vent frustration. The Role of Regulatory Bodies Equestrian federations worldwide, including the FEI and national bodies like Equestrian Canada and British Equestrian, have implemented rigorous policies to address allegations of misconduct. These policies typically involve: Independent Investigations: Bodies like Equestrian Canada rely on third-party complaints processes to ensure impartial investigations. Provisional Suspensions: Riders are often suspended pending the outcome of an investigation, as seen in the cases of the Strassers and Charlotte Dujardin. Public Transparency: Disciplinary actions are typically made public to ensure accountability and transparency. Addressing Misconduct Beyond Competitions While regulatory bodies primarily focus on misconduct within competitions, there is an increasing need to address issues outside of these events. The USEF has taken significant steps in this area, broadening its jurisdiction to include reports of abuse occurring away from competition grounds. This initiative will be effective from December 1, 2024, reflecting the organization's commitment to safeguarding equine welfare in all circumstances. Product Highlight: Equestrian Apparel and Accessories For those involved in dressage, having the right apparel and accessories is crucial for both performance and comfort. At Just Horse Riders, we offer a diverse selection of products specifically designed for equestrian needs. Explore our Jodhpur Collection or find the perfect pair in our Horse Riding Boot Collection to ensure safety and style during every ride. Enhancing Performance with Equestrian Supplements Proper nutrition is vital for maintaining the health and performance of dressage horses. Consider exploring Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements available at Just Horse Riders. These supplements are developed to support the overall well-being of horses, ensuring they remain at the top of their game in both training and competition. Conclusion The allegations of misconduct in the dressage world highlight a crucial ethical issue that the equestrian community must confront. By adhering to strict welfare standards, employing transparent investigation processes, and taking decisive action against misconduct, the sport can uphold its integrity and protect its most vital participantsthe horses. As the equestrian world continues to evolve, ensuring the ethical treatment of horses will remain paramount to its future. Call to Action As you continue your journey in the world of dressage, remember that the welfare of these magnificent animals is of utmost importance. Whether you're looking for quality equestrian products or want to learn more about supporting your horse's health, visit Just Horse Riders today and explore our wide range of offerings.```html```

Table of ContentsToggleTrail CrewPacking with PurposePack It OnFrom Beams to OuthousesMules on a MissionA Thank You to Backcountry MulesFlopping ears bounce with every step down the trail as a string of six mules begin the trek from the Glacier National Park trailhead at the Canadian border to the Belly River Ranger Station two hours southwest.The mules each carry two packs loaded with carpentry supplies that will aid the restoration and upkeep of the historic ranger station during the parks summer months when park crews work to repair or create trails, cabins, and complete other projects before the winter returns to the northern Montana park.Mules are curious, intelligent and dedicated workers. However, hauling loads miles into the backcountry of public lands can be tiring, as this mule agrees. Photo by Kate Bradley ByarsTrail CrewLeading the string of mules is Jill Michalak, who began working at Glacier in 2017. A member of the trails crew, Michalaks job is to take care of and work with the mules and pack supplies as needed into and out of the park.The mules allow us to preserve and access the wilderness, says Michalak. Many of these areas not only dont allow motorized vehicles, but dont allow chainsaws. The mules have lots of different jobs. They work for the trail crew.Rangers often aid packers like Jill Michalak with securing the mules when they arrive at a destination, or help unload a pack if needed. There is a kindred spirit within those that travel the backcountry. Photo by Kate Bradley ByarsFurther south, contract packer Chris Eyer leads his own team of mules into the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex (BMWC) out of his home base in Ovando, Mont. While Michalak works for the National Park Service, Eyer is employed by whichever licensed outfitter or arm of the United States Forest Service (USFS) needs him and his mules to move loads.Ive packed boats for people going on rafting trips, mattresses, lumber, and things like that, says Eyer. As a contract packer, I also get hired by contractors who are not outfitters but work for the Forest Service, [for example] rebuilding a dam or bridge that is too big or specialized for the Forest Service.Chris Eyer leads a string of mules into the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, which requires crossing several rivers. Photo by Kate Bradley ByarsWhen hikers, mountain bikers, trail runners, and other equestrians use a trail system in Americas National Park System, public lands, or designated wilderness area, its more than likely that a mule carted in the equipment necessary to maintain that trail or build the outhouse they use thats far back from the roadway.Mules have carried the load for decades, aiding building, maintaining, exploring and surviving in the wilderness.Packing with Purpose Americans visited National Parks 312 million times in 2022, more than 15 million more visits than in 2021, according to the National Park Service. Most of those visitors never venture more than a mile into the park along a well-used and easily accessed trail. Yet there is a segment that opts to dig deeper into the National Park and wilderness areas considered public lands. There are 63 National Parks, but more than 250 million acres of other public lands all managed by the U.S. Department of the Interior. Within that, the U.S. Forest Service facilitates work to ensure that public lands, like the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, is accessible to users.At Glacier National Park in Montana, Jill Michalak and the mule string she cares for are necessary for moving items around the park. Photo by Kate Bradley ByarsThats where packers like Eyer step in. Since 2006, hes made a living packing cargo and other items for the USFS, the Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation, and other contracted outfitters.The backcountry is for all users, from hikers and horses to skiers and runners, he explains. Mules bring in gear to keep the land open for all of these groups.Along with recreation, the wilderness areas provide opportunity to study many ecosystems and species without interacting with human population centers. Both Eyer and Michalak have packed in biologists completing research projects. Eyer has even brought in insects to the Big Prairie Ranger Station in the Flathead National Forest within BMWC.Packing in bugs is super complicated, he says. Never has more labor gone into a load that is as small as those bugs. The day before I leave to go in, there are people out in a field, on hands and knees collecting bugs to put into a canister. The bugs then go into a cooler to be kept from overheating. That is loaded onto a mule in the center of a load where they wont be baked in the sun. As soon as I get to where Im going, I unload mules and turn them out, then immediately head out with the USFS crew to release the weevils to a certain area where they go to attack an invasive weed species.For Michalak, who has worked as a packer in Alaska and at Olympic National Park, the most interesting project she packed equipment for was one conducted there by NASA.They were doing a project where they were ground truthing for a Doppler radar system, she recalls. We packed 15 miles into Enchanted Valley, packing lasers and solar panels. If you look at Olympic Peninsula, there is no other way to get into there except for mules, because there are no motorized options. The project was projecting weather for a massive population center 200 miles away, in Seattle.In this day in age, mules were the way we got $30,000 laser equipment into the research area, she adds.Knowing which of the mules in a string is going to be more careful with a load and not apt to bump trees is important when carting expensive equipment. But most often, the loads carried are more common items, such as lumber, gravel, tools and food supplies.Loads like the lumber shown here that are heavy, awkward or time-sensitive are not common, but mules handle them with ease. Photo by Chris EyerPack It On Boxes wrapped in canvas are a typical scene if youre hiking and encounter a mule string on the trail. Those boxes usually include food, tents and other items to make camp, or supplies to help restore a cabin. Restoration projects and construction are some of the most frequent loads for mules to make, especially into National Parks.The Park Service maintains a standard that anything older than 50 years is considered historic and must be maintained to those standards, says Michalak. When we packed into the Belly River Ranger Station, they were updating that cabin. [Carpenters] sourced the lumber for the flooring from the surrounding forest, but the lumber for the porch, we packed in. People wonder why we dont use a helicopter, and there are a few reasons. First, they didnt historically bring those items in by helicopter. Second, a lot of the National Parks have regulations as to how much aircraft traffic can go over the park.At the Belly River Ranger Station, deep into Glacier National Park, pack mules help supply a carpentry crew who will restore the historic cabin. Photo by Kate Bradley ByarsFrom Beams to OuthousesThe same goes for building or repairing a bridge or constructing a new dam, both of which are projects Eyer has packed materials for into the BMWC.Anything that is associated with the wilderness that requires heavy equipment or more than people can carry relies on mules, he says. The most challenging project was a bridge project where I packed tandem loads of steel columns that attached to two mules at the same time. It was a seven-week project. Each pair packed two 186-pound steel beams.Two mules worked in tandem to carry steel beams to complete a bridge project that Eyer worked on. Photo by Chris EyerFrom dams to outhouses, all the projects constructed in the backcountry rely on mule power to bring the items in or take them out.Its common for bears to tear apart outhouses, and the park doesnt leave those pieces out there, says Michalak. We pack those itemsanything that wont naturally decomposeout of the backcountry. Things like outhouses dont just appear. While it would take a trail crew half a summer to haul those materials in, it takes a mule string one trip.Mules on a MissionIt can seem like a peaceful job, with the quiet of the wilderness all around, the echo of hooves ringing on the trails and the wide-open spaces. But there are many dangers associated with working in the backcountry, and theyre not only bear-related. Annually, fires ravage the land within national parks and designated public lands. There is an entire segment of packing that is focused on fire work, says Eyer. There are fire lookouts, fire crews, and a lot of work to keep the wilderness from burning, even though much of the wilderness has a let it burn policy. Supplies have to be given to the people living in the lookouts for the fire seasonfood, water and all supplies.Chris Eyers string brings supplies to the people living at a fire lookout in the Bob Marshall Wilderness. Photo by Chris EyerThe parks also have to bring search and rescue crews to an injured person, but rarely airlift them out to decrease the mechanized noise. However, Michalak recalls one incident where her mules were used as Medivac, and not only to pack in supplies to those rescuing Backcountry Rangers.Once, at Olympic National Park, a woman broke her ankle about 11 miles down the trail, she says. There was a huge team of people looking for her, and the weather was really, really bad. I went in with a string of mules and packed the search and rescue team and EMT teams food and tents in so they could focus on patient care. That was the only [person] Ive ever packed out on a mule. She was a rare case because she grew up cowboying and had experience riding. Otherwise, the search and rescue team was going to carry her those 11 miles on a [stretcher].A Thank You to Backcountry MulesWhether carting in tools and food to ensure that the park rangers get through a summer season or hauling in new lumber to build a bridge for access to the wilderness, mules are the ultimate cargo crew in the backcountry.Without four legs to help build and maintain the infrastructure, Americas public lands wouldnt be so easily accessed.This article about the working mules of our public lands appeared in the April 2024 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post The Working Mules of our Public Lands appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

2025 Horse Sport Ireland Stallion Selections The 2025 Horse Sport Ireland Stallion Selections took place over two days, the 20th and 21st of March, in Cavan Equestrian Centre. These selections are supported by the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine Equine Technical Support fund. Across the two days, a total of 51 stallions were presented for inspection, 11 Irish Sport Horse stallions, 14 stallions from other studbooks, 1 Thoroughbred stallions, 3 pony stallions and 24 Irish Draught stallions. In the Irish Draught stallion selections 24 stallions were presented for inspection and ten achieved Class 1 status. Four stallions were Approved in the Irish Sport Horse Studbook, two of which were high-performance stallions presented for linear profiling that met all the veterinary requirements, and a further three stallions were approved in the Irish Sport Pony studbook. Of the 14 stallions presented for Stage 1 assessment in the Irish Sport Horse []