The shorter, cooler days of autumn herald the approach of the cold winter months. Starting with the spring season, we all race around to participate in shows, rodeos, or backcountry camping trips. When those exciting events wind down, we can focus on all the tasks we’ve put off — those “before winter rolls around” jobs.

Your horse's three primary gaits-walk, trot, and canter-each provide distinct advantages for conditioning aimed at enhancing performance. When utilized effectively, these gaits can achieve outcomes that might otherwise be overlooked. Ideally, training sessions should incorporate equal time spent in each of the three primary gaits to promote both flexibility and strength. However, specific conditioning phases may require an emphasis on one gait over the others. This article will explore how each gait benefits the equine athlete, particularly in relation to back usage, and will highlight the role of cavalletti routines in training.

During periods of heavy rainfall, many horse owners may notice the emergence of rain rot in their horses. This skin condition can be frustrating, but with proper care, it is often manageable.

Keep an eye out for the three most common skin cancers in horses and reach out to your veterinarian if you notice any unusual lumps or bumps.

A close look at teff as a forage option for horses. Hay comprises the majority of a horse’s diet. Therefore, when owners are able to source a forage that complements their horse’s nutritional requirements, there are numerous benefits. These benefits range from ease of management to better equine health and even lower feed bills. Teff is a species of grass that is gaining popularity for use as horse hay. It is thought to be a great option for both easy-keepers and metabolic horses.