Early locomotives were called “the iron horse”. The analogy of steam engines was used to describe the horse’s respiratory (and circulatory) system is pretty apt. Think of the horse’s food (hay and grain) as the fuel that propels the horse’s “engine”. Like the steam engine, the fuel is converted into nutritional energy (like the locomotive’s steam) that powers the horse’s muscles.

Photo Credit: Equestrian Professional

The #1 question potential horse owners ask is, “how much does it cost to keep a horse?” The answer is, of course, it depends. But the most common follow-up question is, “But won’t it cost way less because I’ll be keeping him at home in my backyard?” 

We’ve discussed in previous blogs the importance of ventilation – or more importantly cross-ventilation – and light in your barn. Adequate ventilation can help remove summer heat, moisture, dust and toxic gases. If these are allowed to build up, mold, dampness and disease can result. Plenty of fresh air will provide ventilation and help eliminate respiratory problems with your horse. Openings can add light and keep your horse from being apprehensive when entering a dark barn from bright sunshine.

Why you should be thankful for your horse!

Photo Credit: Regent Insurance Group

Should you clip your horse for the winter? Well, it depends. Clipping will allow your horse to dry more quickly after exercise and allow a much easier grooming process. You will also find that your horse maintains a better and healthier looking coat. If you need your horse to cool off quickly after work AND if your horse will have appropriate blanketing and adequate shelter, then the answer is yes.

While everyone else is oohing and aahing over cold, starry nights and snowy days, if you own a horse you know that winter can be a challenging time of year. Your horse gets cold, things get wet and there’s the inevitable mud. To help you this winter, we’ve put together a list of six items (think of it as a Christmas gift list for your barn!) that can help make this winter a little less troublesome. 

Photo Credit: Southern Comfort Barn and Fence- Emge Equine 

With the fall’s beautiful weather comes hunting season. Whether you’re heading out for a trail ride or turning your horses out in a pasture adjoining the woods, you need to be aware of the hunting seasons and take a few precautions. Here are some tips to help keep you and your horses safe!

Photo credit:  Synergist Saddles

There's a lot to think about when you’re planning to build a horse barn. From how best to position the barn on the property to just what style of a barn you want to build, your plans will quickly become detailed and extensive! But there’s one common factor that you don’t want to forget about until it’s too late: Climate.

Photo Credit: Fine Art America

If you watch HGTV, you’ve probably seen a show called “Love It or List It.” It features homeowners who have lived in their cute, but often crowded or crazy floor plan home for several years, but now need a home that better reflects their current requirements. Two experts take on the challenge with a budget – one looks at how to make over the existing home, the other looks for a new home with all their requirements. Once done, the owners decide – love their old, but remodeled home or sell it and buy the new home.