Causes, Solutions, and Support for Stress-Related Habituated Responses Neck tension in horses is a common issue that can affect performance, comfort, and overall well-being. There are several factors that contribute to this tension, ranging from physical to psychological causes. Physical causes can include poor saddle fit, incorrect riding techniques, dental issues, or even underlying musculoskeletal problems. Horses may also develop tension from repetitive movements or injur

Did you know that a quick 30-second check  could make all the difference in diagnosing whether your horse has gastric ulcers—and even help determine if they’re acute, moderate, or severe ? Ulcers are one of the most common yet overlooked health issues in horses. They can cause discomfort, behavioural changes, and even impact performance. The good news? You don’t need hours or expensive equipment to start spotting the signs. 👉 Watch the Practical Why This Quick Check Matters

Simple Solutions for Healthier Grounds, Safer Horses, and Hassle-Free Handling If you’ve ever spent time around horse paddocks, you’ll know the humble gate is a hotspot for trouble. From muddy bogs to injured horses and busted gear, it’s often the most problematic spot in the whole paddock. Installing an electric bungy fence just before the gate is a simple, cost-effective fix that can save you a heap of headaches. Here’s why it’s worth making this quick improvement to your s

A Guide to Assessing Equine Muscle Health and Addressing Common Issues Horses are remarkable athletes, and their muscle health plays a crucial role in their performance, comfort, and overall well-being. Whether you’re a rider, owner, or equine enthusiast, understanding how to evaluate the state of a horse’s muscles can make a significant difference in how you care for them. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to distinguish between atrophied, healthy, and tight muscles, how

With the 2025 Victorian fires on people’s doorsteps, our thoughts are with everyone affected. We hope you, your horses, minilops, and other fur babies are as safe as possible during this challenging time. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the incredible RFS teams and volunteers working tirelessly to protect lives and property. Moments like these remind us why proactive care matters—not just in emergencies, but every day. That’s why this app, Bushfire.io , has become Lagoball

Practical Advice for Maintaining Order and Respect in Shared Horse Facilities Whether you’re new to agistment or a seasoned hand, keeping tidy is part of being a good agistee and a responsible horse owner. Shared facilities run smoother, safer, and friendlier when everyone pitches in. Here are my top tips for staying organised and considerate at your agistment property. 1. Use Bridle Hangers and Keep Tack Neat Nothing says “organised” like a well-hung bridle! Most agistments

When temperatures soar above 30°C , your horse’s body works overtime to stay cool. But did you know that heat can also affect your gelding’s sheath? Today, I noticed swelling in a few horses—and upon inspection, found extra smegma deposits and beans that needed flushing with cool water. Here’s why this happens and why it’s important not to ignore it. Why Does Heat Cause Swelling? Increased circulation:  Hot weather causes blood vessels to dilate, which can lead to mild swelli

When disaster strikes, every second counts. For horse owners, bushfires and other emergencies can turn calm paddocks into chaos. In these moments, identifying your horse quickly and accurately is critical —and that’s where an Equine Emergency ID Tag  becomes a lifesaver. What Is an Equine Emergency ID Tag? An emergency ID tag, like the Manestay Equine Emergency ID Tag , is a simple yet powerful tool that attaches securely to your horse’s mane or halter. It contains essential

Managing, Exercising, and Caring for Your Senior Equine Mate As horses age, their needs and capabilities change, requiring a thoughtful approach to training and management. Whether your old mate is a retired champion or a beloved paddock companion, understanding how to care for and exercise an older horse is vital. This guide will help you identify what constitutes an “older” horse, recognise their limits, spot warning signs, and offer practical steps for keeping your senior

Plan, Ride, Achieve: Smart Goal Setting for Equestrians Goal setting isn’t just for riders—it’s for partnerships. When you set goals with your horse in mind, you create a roadmap that respects their abilities, your skillset, and the bond you share. What Kind of Goals Can You Set? Competitions/outings:  Are you aiming for a local show or a national level event? Clinics:  Do you want to learn from experts and expose your horse to new environments? Movements:  Maybe you dream of

Tight, clamping thighs are a common challenge for many riders, yet they’re often misunderstood or dismissed as simply a “bad habit.” In reality, thigh tension is usually the result of a combination of biomechanics, muscle imbalance, skeletal structure, and nervous system responses. In this blog, we’ll explore  why  riders clamp with their thighs, how it affects both horse and rider, and practical ways to improve freedom, comfort, and harmony in the saddle. What Happens When t

Why the STC Bungee Breakaway Trailer Tie Is the Best Choice for Your Horse Float When it comes to transporting horses, safety is everything. A horse float can quickly turn into a dangerous space if something goes wrong—especially when ropes or gear become airborne. One sudden stop or unexpected movement, and those items can turn into high-speed projectiles aimed straight at your horse’s face. That’s where the STC Bungee Breakaway Trailer Tie  comes in. This clever piece of eq

A beautifully kind, fellow rider recently said to me, “You’re very dressage-focused.”  And she’s right— dressage  is at the heart of my approach. But here’s the thing: dressage literally means training  in German. It’s not just about competition (and I don't actively pursue this); it’s the original foundation for riding, developed centuries ago to create balance, harmony, and communication between horse and rider. However, the comment got me thinking... what makes a good trai

Why Heat Management Matters When the mercury climbs above 30°C, horses are at risk of heat stress, dehydration, and discomfort. As responsible owners, we need to take proactive steps to keep them cool and happy. Here are practical, horse-friendly strategies you can start using today. 1. Hose Them Down (But Skip the Scraper!) A cool rinse is one of the fastest ways to lower your horse’s body temperature. ✅ Tip:  Don’t scrape off the water—letting it evaporate helps cool the sk

Understanding Tough Days, Trauma Triggers, and Why True Horsepeeps Choose Education Over Giving Up Ever had a ride where your horse feels like they’ve forgotten everything you’ve worked on? They push through the reins, hunker down, or even bolt. It’s frustrating—but it’s also normal. These are what I call “reset rides.” Why Reset Rides Happen Horses, like humans, have good and not-so-good days. Stress, past trauma, or environmental triggers can cause them to revert to old beh

Setting your Horse up for Success with the Right Fit and Design When it comes to riding bitless, the bridle isn’t just a piece of tack—it’s your main line of communication with your horse. A well-fitted bitless bridle can make the difference between a soft, responsive ride and a frustrating one. So, what should you look for when choosing a bitless bridle, and why does fit matter so much? Why Bitless Bridle Fit Is Different Unlike a traditional bridle, a bitless bridle transfe

How Self-Assessment Can Make You a More Mindful, Effective Rider If you're passionate about horses, you've probably spent more hours in the saddle than you care to count—only to discover, occasionally, that old habits have snuck back in. Maybe your horse in really lazy or is heavy in the contact. Don't fret! There's a refreshingly simple tool that can help you reset and ride with renewed awareness, it's what I like to call, the "horse shopping list" . This clever twist on int

Why Bridle Brands Matter for Ultimate Bridle Fit When it comes to horse riding, the bridle isn’t just a piece of tack—it’s your main line of communication with your horse. A well-designed bridle can make the difference between a responsive, comfortable ride and a frustrating one. So, with the thousands of options out there, what can you look for to help make the right choice. Professional Choice As a professional bridle and bit fitter for the Canberra region I look for the br

Maintaining the health and well-being of your horse is crucial for their performance and enjoyment of life. Horses can face a variety of health issues throughout their lives, from minor ailments to serious conditions. Understanding these issues and how to prevent them will help you keep your horse healthy, happy, and active. Understanding Common Health Issues in Horses Horses are vulnerable to several common health issues. These can arise from improper management, diet defici

Keep Your Bunny Happy, Healthy, and Looking Their Best Rabbits are delightful companions, and while short-haired breeds may seem low-maintenance, regular grooming is essential for their health and wellbeing. Grooming not only keeps your bunny’s coat in top nick but also strengthens your bond and helps you spot any health concerns early on. Here’s a step-by-step guide to grooming your short-haired rabbit, plus product recommendations to make the job a breeze. Why Groom Short-H