Building a Supportive Online Equestrian Community: Why Kindness Matters

Empowering Each Other, One Post at a Time

The equestrian world is as diverse and passionate online as it is in real life. From the seasoned showjumper in the bush to the backyard pony owner learning the ropes, we all share a love for horses and a desire to do our best by them. But as our community grows online, so does the responsibility to ensure our virtual paddocks remain welcoming, supportive, and free from negativity.

The Harm of Trolling and Negative Comments

We’ve all seen it: someone posts a photo asking for advice or shares a proud moment, only to be met with a string of harsh comments, criticism, or outright trolling. While it might seem like keyboard banter to some, these comments can cut deep. Trolling doesn’t just hurt feelings—it can discourage people from seeking help, sharing their journey, or even continuing in the horse world. No one wants to feel judged or ridiculed for trying their best.

We’ve All Felt the Sting: Unkindness Online and the Power of Unity

Let’s be honest—everyone, at some point, has experienced unkindness on the internet. Whether it was a thoughtless remark on a training video, a dismissive comment about a first show, or silent exclusion from a group chat, online nastiness can make anyone feel isolated. But remembering our own experiences can help us approach others with compassion. Instead of ignoring negativity, we can collectively support one another and foster an atmosphere where everyone feels safe to engage and learn.

There are many ways to reduce online nastiness and stand up for others politely, such as:

• Leave a positive comment: If you see someone being criticised, balance the negativity by leaving encouragement or constructive feedback.

• Report or flag harmful content: Most platforms have ways to report bullying or offensive comments—use them to help keep the space safe.

• Politely redirect the conversation: If someone is being unfair, you can say, “Let’s keep things supportive. Everyone is learning, and mistakes are part of the journey.”

• Share your own stories: Letting others know you’ve made mistakes too makes the online space more forgiving and human.

• Use group moderation tools: Admins can set clear guidelines about respect and kindness and gently enforce them as needed.

How AI Can Help Us Set a Positive Tone

It might sound futuristic, but AI moderation tools are increasingly used to flag harmful language and encourage respectful dialogue on social platforms and forums. Some online communities have AI-driven chatbots that remind users about guidelines or offer suggestions for kinder phrasing before a comment is posted. You can also use AI-based grammar and tone checkers to make sure your feedback is constructive and clear instead of accidentally harsh. These tools aren’t perfect, but they can be a great first step in catching negativity before it takes root.

Why Support and Empowerment Matter

We all started somewhere. Remember the nerves of your first ride, the confusion over tack, or the anxiety before a competition? Encouragement and positive feedback are what keep people coming back and getting better. By lifting each other up, we create a stronger, more knowledgeable, and more confident equestrian community. Support isn’t just nice—it’s essential for everyone’s growth.

When To Speak Up: Addressing Abuse and Welfare Issues

Of course, there’s one clear exception: horse abuse or any violation of animal welfare. If you see someone sharing or supporting behaviour that harms horses, it’s not only your right but your responsibility to speak up—firmly and respectfully. Protecting horses always comes first. But even then, aim to educate and report rather than attack. The goal is to promote better care, not just to shame.

Understanding Human Error and Knowledge Gaps

Let’s face it: nobody knows everything. Mistakes will happen, especially in a field as complex as horsemanship. Maybe someone’s saddle isn’t fitted perfectly, or they’re asking a question that seems basic to you. Instead of jumping down their throat, consider that they might not have had the same opportunities or education. Sharing knowledge kindly helps everyone learn—and you might even pick up a new tip yourself.

Practical Tips for Responding with Kindness

• Pause before you post: If you’re annoyed or upset, take a breather before replying.

• Assume good intentions: Most people are genuinely trying their best.

• Offer help, not criticism: Phrase feedback as suggestions, not put-downs.

• Share your own mistakes: Relating your own learning curve can make advice more relatable.

• Don’t hide behind the keyboard: Remember, there’s a real person at the other end of every post—treat them how you’d like to be treated in person.

• Pretend you are an AI: If you need to separate emotion from the space, try tackling your response by pretending you are responding using an AI agent (think CoPilot or ChatGPT)... maybe even use it before posting?

• Do you actually need to respond: Stop and ask yourself whether you actually need to respond. No response, and letting that sit, may be better approach sometimes. However, remember that "no response, is also a response" and could this be perceived as negative also (think along the lines of ghosting someone)

• Private vs public: Maybe you can directly communicate with the person in a private forum, rather than publicly (again ensure you respond in kindness). Don't add fuel to the fire unnecessarily.

Encouraging Community Culture

The concept of community culture, as presented by Lagoballo, is essential for fostering connections and collaboration within our equine community. By embracing the principles outlined on their Community Culture page, we can enhance our online interactions and build a more cohesive environment for all members.

Key Principles of Community Culture

• Inclusivity: Encourage participation from all individuals, regardless of their experience level with horses.

• Support: Create a space where members feel supported in their equine journeys, sharing knowledge and resources freely.

• Collaboration: Foster partnerships among members to work on projects, events, and initiatives that benefit the community.

• Respect: Promote a culture of respect and understanding, valuing diverse opinions and backgrounds.

• Engagement: Actively engage members through discussions, events, and online platforms to maintain a vibrant community.

• Reflect: If there is an ongoing negativity in an online group or forum, consider your options to stay or leave? What might be better if you don't need negativity in this space?

Applying Community Culture Online

To apply these principles in our online equine community, consider the following strategies:

• Create Online Forums: Establish discussion boards or social media groups where members can share experiences and seek advice.

• Host Virtual Events: Organize webinars, workshops, or virtual meet-ups to educate and connect members.

• Share Success Stories: Highlight accomplishments within the community to inspire others and celebrate collective achievements.

• Encourage Mentorship: Pair experienced members with newcomers to facilitate learning and support.

• Maintain Open Communication: Ensure that all members feel heard and valued by encouraging feedback and suggestions.

By integrating the values of Lagoballo's Community Culture into our online equine community, we can create a supportive and thriving environment that benefits everyone involved.

Conclusion: Building a Positive Equestrian Community

At the end of the day, our shared passion for horses should bring us together, not tear us apart. By choosing kindness, empathy, and responsible behaviour online, we make the equestrian world a better place for everyone—horses included. So next time you’re tempted to criticise or create bloody drama, remember: a little support goes a long way. Let’s build a community where everyone feels empowered to learn, grow, and ride on with confidence.

Side note, if there is reported equine abuse online, then this is not cool (or something I condone/accept). However, let the appropriate regulatory bodies handle it (that is what they are there for) and don't get involved with the drama. The person doing the perceived abuse is, already being punished with their reputational damage, and subsequent violations through the regulatory bodies.

Are there any ways you can think of to create a better culture - any tips/tricks you can share here?