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When we think about horse welfare, many people immediately focus on nutrition, exercise, veterinary care, or training. While these are undeniably important, true wellbeing is much broader than any single element. A horse's quality of life is built upon several interconnected pillars that work together to create a balanced, healthy and content individual. When one pillar is neglected, the others are often affected. For me, there are seven essential pillars that support every h

When it comes to feeding horses, most discussions focus on what we're feeding. But perhaps we should spend more time thinking about how and where we're feeding. Traditionally, horses evolved to graze with their heads down for much of the day. More recently, many horse owners have embraced the idea that feeding from the ground is always best. While there are certainly benefits to ground feeding, I've come to believe that the "best" feeding position depends on the individual ho

As horse owners, we naturally want the best for our horses. We invest in lessons, clinics, training programs and equipment, all in pursuit of helping them reach their potential. But what if the very thing holding your horse back isn't a training issue at all? What if it's discomfort? Before we ask our horses to carry us, learn new skills, improve their movement or overcome behavioural challenges, we need to ensure they're physically comfortable in their bodies. No amount of t

Every horse owner has that one product. You know the one. The product you buy "just in case", only to find yourself reaching for it time and time again. For me, that's Terramycin Pink Eye Aerosol. Now, before anyone points it out, yes, it was originally developed as an antibiotic aerosol for treating eye infections and pinkeye conditions in animals. It contains oxytetracycline and is widely used in livestock veterinary care. But over the years, I've found it incredibly handy

If there is one topic guaranteed to spark discussion among horse owners, it's body condition. Too fat. Too thin. Needs more topline. Needs less pasture. Needs more feed. Needs less feed. Sometimes it feels like everyone has an opinion. Recently I found myself wondering: if you had to choose between a horse being slightly over-conditioned or slightly under-conditioned, which is actually better? Before anyone sharpens their pitchforks, I'm not talking about obese horses or hors

Why Ulcers Are So Common in Performance Horses Gastric ulcers are one of the most widespread health issues in horses, especially those in training or competition. Studies show that up to 90% of performance horses experience some form of Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS). Why? Because their natural digestive system is designed for constant grazing , not the stop-start feeding patterns we often impose. When horses go for long periods without forage, stomach acid continues t

Why “Naughty” Often Means Discomfort When a horse resists, pins its ears, or refuses to go forward, it’s tempting to label them as “naughty” or stubborn. But here’s the truth: horses rarely misbehave without a reason. They’re prey animals, hardwired for survival, and their behaviour is often a direct response to discomfort, confusion, or pain. Ignoring these signals can damage trust and escalate problems. The good news? With observation and empathy, you can learn to tell the

Oh Sugar! Why Insulin Resistance in a Concern Insulin resistance (IR) in horses is a growing concern, especially among easy keepers, ponies, and breeds with a “thrifty” metabolism. It’s a condition that can sneak up quietly—until your horse starts showing signs like a cresty neck, unexplained laminitis, or stubborn weight gain. Managing IR is a long-term commitment, but with the right knowledge, support, and veterinary partnership, it’s absolutely doable. 🧪 What Is Insulin R

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

Minimising Stress and Maximising Safety for Horses and Humans Introducing a horse, or a group of horses, to a new paddock can be an exciting time for both you and your equine friends. However, it’s important to approach the process thoughtfully to reduce stress, avoid injury, and ensure everyone’s safety — two-legged and four-legged alike. Here’s a step-by-step guide tailored for Australian conditions, with tips on the best time of day and practical advice to make the transit

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

How to Use Body Condition Scoring to Keep Your Horse Healthy and Happy Monitoring your horse’s body condition is essential for ensuring...

A Practical Guide to Fascia Health for Your Horse When it comes to equine anatomy, fascia is one of the unsung heroes supporting your...

Canberra Equine Services: A Comprehensive Guide Canberra, the capital city of Australia and surrounding regions, are home to a vibrant equine community. For horse owners and enthusiasts alike, being aware of the available services in the area is crucial for the effective care and management of their equine companions. This blog post highlights key equine services in Canberra, including farriers, bodyworkers, veterinarians, transport companies, feed stores, horse products, clo

Building Lasting Strength and Symmetry Through Patience and Practical Exercises Bringing a horse back into work—whether after a break,...

Don’t Underestimate the Power of Proper Paddock Nutrition Did you know that a horse’s nutritional needs are even more critical than a...

Understanding Australian Stringhalt: A Path to Recovery Australian Stringhalt is a perplexing condition that affects horses, causing them...