As I write this article, I am days into the arrival of my new pony Gwynna, the third member of my little herd, with a herd integration in our near future. It seems somehow fortuitous to be riding the various waves of emotion that this transition can present — trepidation, fear, anticipation, and uncertainty — as I unpack what it takes to successfully introduce a new herd member or move from a barn with horses on their own to one where the herd lives together.

A good grooming session is a lovely way to connect with your horse, and most horses appreciate the pampering. However, often avoided is the important task of cleaning the sheath of a male horse. Whether it's the fear of being kicked, uncertainty of how to do it properly, or simply feeling squeamish, many with geldings and stallions tend to avoid the chore. Despite the reluctance, veterinarians recommend regular cleaning and inspection of a horse's sheath as vital to the health of the male horse.

Knowing how to wrap your horse's leg is an essential skill for the attentive horse owner. Questions such as What thickness of bandage should I use on my horse's leg? How do I know when wrapping my horse's leg is appropriate? What supplies do I need? are all very important. With help from this article, and a little practice, you will have master these skills in no time.

Essentially, a gate is a transition from here to there. It’s a transition from one pasture to another, replicated in competition. Learning to work a gate can be part of your horse’s training transition into a more attentive, patient, and handy partner.